Edinburgh Castle Visitor's Guide
One of the city's top attractions is the symbolic heart of Scotland
Edinburgh Castle is an essential sight in Scotland's capital, visible from many parts of the city. It has great views over Edinburgh and a wealth of Scottish history
EDINBURGH CASTLE HISTORY
There has been a settlement on top of the rock on which Edinburgh Castle stands since at least 1000BC. Then in the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, the first fortifications were built. The oldest surviving building is St Margaret's Chapel, which was built in about 1076 and is the oldest building in Edinburgh. The present buildings date from after 1573, when Edinburgh Castle was almost totally destroyed by the English army. It was the last fortress to support the claim to the British throne of Mary, Queen of Scots.
INSIDE EDINBURGH CASTLE
The main attractions in Edinburgh Castle include:
- St Margaret's Chapel: see above.
- Mons Meg: the huge 15th-century cannon which exploded in 1682 and has been silent ever since.
- The Half-Moon Battery: fires at 1pm every day, so be prepared for the noise.
- The Stone of Scone: also known as the Stone of Destiny, and once used for the crowning of Scottish monarchs.
- The Crown Room: contains the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain, older than those in the Tower of London (link), and also used during the crowning of Scottish monarchs.
- The Great Hall: Until 1840 the Scottish Parliament met here. It once held French prisoners of war during the Napoleonic Wars. Today it contains displays of armour and weaponry.
VISITING EDINBURGH CASTLE
There are good views of Edinburgh Castle from many places in Edinburgh. The western end of Grassmarket is a popular spot for looking up at the castle. The only way in, though, is at the western end of the Royal Mile. Walk up to the entrance gates and be prepared for long queues at busy times of the year. Edinburgh Castle is open daily from 9.30am.
For further details visit the website by clicking here.
Read about visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh by clicking here.
