Edinburgh Castle

About Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is as ancient as it looks. The rocky promontory it occupies, dominating the skyline of the city, has been occupied since the second century. The first castle in this location was built in the twelfth century, and the castle remained a royal residence for centuries afterward. Taking a central role in the wars that racked Scotland over the years, Edinburgh Castle has been called the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked in the world. However, restoration projects over the years have kept the castle looking its rugged best.

To this day, the castle remains the home of the Scottish National War Memorial and the National War Museum. And thanks to its fascinating history and striking architecture, it’s the second most visited tourist attraction in the entire UK, receiving over two million visitors per year. The castle is such an icon of the city that it’s debatable whether you can really say you’ve been to Edinburgh unless you’ve made the climb up to the castle. The heart of the city since ancient times, the castle remains a key part of the Scottish capital to this day.

Things to do near Edinburgh Castle

Because it’s been so central to the city’s development over the years, the castle is close to many of Edinburgh’s top attractions. It will take you a long time to explore everything the castle has to offer. But once you do, you’ll be in the ideal spot to branch out and see more of the city.

• Take in the vibrant life of the city along the Royal Mile. Edinburgh’s main shopping street runs from the castle to Holyrood Palace. You’ll find no end of shops, bars, restaurants, and pubs along this lively street.
• Learn more about Scotland’s turbulent history at the National Museum of Scotland. A short walk from the castle, the exhibits here will help you understand more about the forces that have shaped the city and the country over the centuries.
• Go on a pub crawl through Grassmarket. This entertaining street has an astonishing concentration of drinking establishments, and it may take you all night to get through them. Or simply pick a favorite and spend your evening there.
• Take a break from the frenetic pace of the city in the Princes Street Gardens. This sprawling urban park offers incredible views of the castle and the city is a great place to stretch your legs and breathe some fresh air in the Scottish capital.
• See artistic masterpieces from Scotland and beyond at the Scottish National Gallery. Works by Monet, van Gogh, and Leonardo da Vinci are some of the highlights here, but there’s plenty to explore in the endless galleries of this impressive museum.

Transit options at Edinburgh Castle

• Waverley Train Station is Edinburgh’s main station, connecting it to cities throughout Scotland and the rest of the UK. It’s only a short walk from the station to the castle, covering around half a mile.
• The Airlink 100 bus runs from Edinburgh Airport to the center of the city, stopping at Waverley Station.
• Trams connect Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street, which is only a few minutes’ walk from the castle.

Luggage storage near Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh is a city made for walking. You’ll do plenty of that if you want to explore its castle probably. Wandering through this ancient city is an activity all by itself, and one of the best ways to get to grips with its ancient history and modern charm.

Bounce makes it easier to explore by making sure you always have a safe place to store your belongings. Drop off any unneeded bags at a luggage storage service near Edinburgh Castle. As you climb the hill to this ancient fortress, you’ll be glad you did.

Attractions and activities near Edinburgh Castle

• See the heart of Scotland’s modern government at Holyroodhouse. Although still part of the United Kingdom, Scotland has gained increasing autonomy over the past few decades. The 16th-century Royal Palace is now the home of the Scottish national parliament, and you can take a tour which will explain more about the history and the future of this proud nation.
• Get above it all at Arthur’s Seat. This dormant volcano towers over the city, and its rugged beauty makes it a popular subject for photos, especially in the golden hour before sunset. If you’re feeling energetic, there are plenty of hiking trails that will let you explore this peak and give you incredible views over the city. Lace up your hiking boots and set out for an experience of the wilderness right outside Scotland’s capital city.
• There aren’t many countries that are synonymous with a drink. But at the Scotch Whisky Experience, you can explore the history of Scotland’s most famous export. Fans of the spirit won’t want to miss this attraction, but even novices may come away with a new appreciation of Scotland’s national drink. The high-tech exhibits will explain how whiskey first came to be distilled in the country and how it shaped the history of the nation. There’s also an excellent restaurant and, of course, an incredible selection of whiskeys view to sample. Plus, the exciting barrel ride is not to be missed.