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Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets

Top rated
4.826857 out of 5 stars
4.8
4.826857 out of 5 stars
7566 reviews
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Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.826857 out of 5 stars
4.8
4.826857 out of 5 stars
7566 reviews

Discover Edinburgh Castle on this English-language tour with tickets to the castle included. Explore key highlights with top-rated local guides who bring its history to life.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

C
Corey – United States

The tour was great. We had Eleanor, who was very knowledgeable and clear. She was mindful to manage our time and hit the important points/spots along the way without over/under explaining. Overall a great experience and recommend to anyone who visits Edinburgh to learn and see.

S
Susan – United States

Naomi gave us a fabulous, entertaining tour of the castle. She made the castle come alive with her stories and was well informed with all the questions from the group. Would highly recommend her and her company!

Select participants and date

Participants

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    Starting location:

    192 High St

  • On foot

    (8 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Castle Rock, Edinburgh

    Guided tour (80 minutes)

    Castle Rock, Edinburgh

    Free time

    Optional

Main stop
Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Travel back 3000 years and discover the history of Edinburgh Castle
  • Learn the Castle's hidden histories of Royals, Rebels, Bloodshed & more
  • Snap and take in Edinburgh's best panoramic views
  • See the 900-year-old St Margaret’s Chapel, James VI’s birthplace and more
  • Learn history through entertaining stories expertly weaved by talented guides

Full description

Begin your tour by the statue of Adam Smith on the Royal Mile. Walk towards Edinburgh Castle as your guide sets the scene, explaining the significance of the Castle and mentioning some of the key characters who have helped shape it.

Once inside, let your guide walk you through the Castle complex. Explore all the highlights and attractions of this 3000 year-old fortress, including the Argyle Battery and One O'clock Gun, Hospital Square and take in the best views from Western Panorama.

Uncover the castle dungeons and military prison, the 16th century Great Hall where royal feasts took place and the cliffs climbed by Thomas Randolph during the Scottish Wars of Independence . Encounter St Margret's Chapel, Mons Meg, the Crown Square, and The Honours of Scotland.

After the tour, enjoy some time at your leisure to explore the castle museums (not accessible during the tour).

Includes

  • Edinburgh Castle entry ticket
  • Guided tour in English language only

Not suitable for

  • People with mobility impairments
  • Wheelchair users

Meeting point

Outside Caffè Nero on the Royal Mile beside the statue of Adam Smith, 192 High Street, EH1 1RF. Look for the green and white umbrellas. This tour does not depart from the castle.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

Not allowed

  • Oversize luggage

Know before you go

  • Bags with a volume larger than 30L are not allowed into Edinburgh Castle and there is no locker space for luggage
  • "Scotland has two seasons, June and winter!" - Billy Connolly. This tour takes place outside so please dress appropriately for the glorious Scottish climate
  • Please note that children aged 15 and under will not be able to join the tour unless accompanied by a responsible adult
  • The guided tour is available in the English language only
Likely to sell out

From $47.69 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 7566 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5

Customer photos

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C
Corey – United StatesMay 8, 2025 – Verified booking
The tour was great. We had Eleanor, who was very knowledgeable and clear. She was mindful to manage our time and hit the important points/spots along the way without over/under explaining. Overall a great experience and recommend to anyone who visits Edinburgh to learn and see.
S
Susan – United StatesMay 6, 2025 – Verified booking
Naomi gave us a fabulous, entertaining tour of the castle. She made the castle come alive with her stories and was well informed with all the questions from the group. Would highly recommend her and her company!
M
Maxwell Ferguson – United KingdomMay 5, 2025 – Verified booking
We really enjoyed our tour of Edinburgh Castle. Learned a lot about the history.

Product ID: 156135

Activity provider:Little Fish Tours
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  • Things to do in Edinburgh
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