Overview
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.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Skip-the-ticket-line entrance to the Castle
Local guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Your Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour starts on 130 Royal Mile, on the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close (Please do not go straight to the castle).
Look for our staff with red jackets and red umbrellas branded with SANDEMANs logos.
End point
Your Edinburgh Castle Tour finishes inside the castle grounds.
Good to know
OUR TOUR STARTS AT 130 HIGH STREET. WE DON'T ALLOW GUESTS TO JOIN AFTER THE START TIME, AND WE DON'T ALLOW GUESTS TO JOIN IF THEY DON'T SHOW UP IN THE MENTIONED START POINT.
Please arrive 15 mins before departure.
No bags or backpacks over 30L are permitted for security reasons
What to expect
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Edinburgh
Meet your guide in front of Frankie & Benny's on 130 High Street by Tron Kirk
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Royal Mile
15 min
Make your way to the castle and experience one immediate advantage to this 2-hour walking tour: you get to bypass the usually long line and go right into the castle. No waiting.
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National War Museum of Scotland
15 hours
Visit the National War Museum to get an up close view of the battles that have shaped Scotland and Edinburgh. Walk through Crown Square, the main courtyard of the castle. See the Crown Jewels of Scotland, including the Stone of Destiny, an oblong block of red sandstone that was used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs.
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St. Margaret's Chapel
15 min
Visit St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh.
You’ll also see the dog cemetery, the final resting place for canine companions of regimental officers and one of the few cemeteries dedicated to dog in the world. At the end of the tour, you can stay on and explore more of the castle on your own. -
Edinburgh Castle
45 min
Listen as your guide shares the insider’s view and secrets of this ancient spot. Learn, for example, about the bloody battles and invasions that have taken place here over the centuries.
Your ticket to enter the Castle allows you to stay right through to closing time. Feel free to continue exploring the Castle at your own pace, once the tour is finished.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/London).
Additional Information
- Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Edinburgh Skip-the-Ticket-Line Castle Walking Tour
Can I cancel Edinburgh Skip-the-Ticket-Line Castle Walking Tour for free?
No. All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How long does it take?
It takes about 1 hour 30 min.
Where does it start?
Your Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour starts on 130 Royal Mile, on the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close (Please do not go straight to the castle).
What's included?
- Skip-the-ticket-line entrance to the Castle
- Local guide
What's not included?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
Which places does it visit?
It visits Royal Mile, National War Museum of Scotland, St. Margaret's Chapel, Edinburgh Castle.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English, Spanish.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Sandemans Tours
