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Edinburgh Castle dominates one of the world’s most heroic and bloody national histories. Set on a dead volcano, the castle is an imposing sight with its thick defensive walls. This 2-hour tour gives you an insider’s view of the city’s number one attraction, first letting you skip the ticket line and then revealing the secrets of this fortress, from one of the world’s few official dog cemeteries to the smallest shrine in the world. Learn about the castle’s wicked and wonderful history from the guide.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be aware that Edinburgh Castle stays open until 5pm and your Castle Ticket is only valid on the day of purchase.
Children (4 or under) can join the Edinburgh Castle Tour for free. We reserve the right to ask for a valid ID for children joining our tours.
Our tour starts at 130 Royal Mile on the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close. We don't allow guests to join after the start time, and we don't allow guests to join the tour if they don't show up in our current start point at 130 High Street.
The independent guides who employ us to market their tours have your best interests in mind; while the tour usually includes the sites & stories mentioned and lasts about 1.5 hours, your tour may vary depending on what your guide thinks is best for your group
No bags or backpacks over 30L are permitted for security reasons
Unfortunately, the steep hills and uneven ground mean that this tour is not suitable for pushchairs or those unable to walk unassisted
Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Skip-the-ticket-line entrance to the Castle
Local guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
English Tour : Tour with an English speaking guide
Operated by Sandemans Tours
1,283 reviews
Matt M,
Feb 19, 2025
Wonderful 90 minute guided tour of the castle and immediate area. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable.
Sandy G,
Dec 29, 2024
Tour of the castle was very informative and our guide, Alisdair, was the best! Being a native Edinburgher, he knew his history!
Gene S,
Nov 2, 2024
An extremely detailed and educational tour. Our guide had an iPad and family relatives that were helpful and fun. Would certainly recommend this to anyone going to Edinburgh.
Corinne W,
Oct 19, 2024
Alisdair was great and shared so many fun anecdotes! Very knowledgeable and informative about the castle and surrounding area.
Dennis D,
Oct 15, 2024
Alisdair was delightful! Very friendly, patient, and full of great stories! Glad to have him guide us through the grounds of the castle describing and explaining all the details! Save time for the War Museum, the Crown Jewels. Would recommend him 100%!
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