How to Plan Your Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour

Visiting Edinburgh Castle is certainly one of the top things to do for anyone who has ever visited Scotland’s capital. And if you want to explore the castle in depth and learn about its rich history, taking a guided tour is an excellent idea. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of planning your Edinburgh Castle guided historical tour, and provide you with some tips to make the most out of your experience.

Experience

Edinburgh Castle is an iconic landmark that has witnessed over 1000 years of history. The Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour will give you the chance to discover the origins of the city and its castle while exploring the castle at your own pace after the tour. Your guide will bring the castle’s history to life as you walk through its various parts, providing you with insights, stories, and facts that you might not find in any guidebook.

Highlights

The Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour will take you through some of the most important and impressive parts of the castle, including:

The Great Hall

The Great Hall is one of the largest medieval halls in Scotland, and it has been the scene of many great banquets and formal occasions. Your guide will provide you with an overview of the hall’s history and its role in Scottish history.

The Scottish Crown Jewels

The Scottish Crown Jewels, also known as the Honours of Scotland, date back to the 15th century and are among the oldest surviving crown jewels in Europe. During the tour, you will learn about their rich history and their significance for Scottish royalty.

The Stone of Destiny

The Stone of Destiny, also called the Stone of Scone, is a block of red sandstone that has been used for centuries during the inauguration of Scottish monarchs. Your guide will tell you the fascinating story of the stone and its relevance to the Scottish people.

The One O’Clock Gun

The One O’Clock Gun is a time signal that has been fired from Edinburgh Castle since 1861. During the tour, you will learn about its history and how it is still used today.

Full Description

The Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour is a fantastic way to explore one of the most significant landmarks in Edinburgh. The experience will take you through the castle’s many parts and provide you with information about its history, architecture, and cultural significance. Your guide will be an expert on the castle’s history and will provide you with a wealth of information that you will not easily find elsewhere. The tour is offered by a third-party company, and you can book it online through their website. The tour takes approximately 90 minutes, and it is available every day of the year, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The meeting point is at the castle’s main gate, and you will need to purchase an admission ticket to the castle separately. During the tour, your guide will take you through some of the most fascinating parts of the castle, such as the Great Hall, the Scottish Crown Jewels, and the Stone of Destiny. You will hear stories about Scottish kings and queens, battles, and rebellions, and learn about the castle’s role in shaping Scotland’s history. One of the tour’s advantages is that you can explore the castle at your own pace after the tour ends. You will have the opportunity to visit some parts of the castle that were not included in the tour or to revisit some of the places you found particularly interesting. Just make sure to keep track of the time, as the castle has many parts, and it can be easy to lose track of time.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour is easy. All you need to do is visit the company’s website and select the tour. You will see the dates and times for the tour, and you can choose the one that works best for you. The ticket price includes the guided tour, and you will need to purchase an admission ticket to the castle separately. To book the tour, click the following link: book the tour here. The company’s website is secure and easy to use, and you will receive a confirmation email once you have completed the booking process.

Tips for the Tour

To make the most out of your Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour, we recommend the following tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces and going up and down stairs
• Check the weather forecast and bring adequate clothing, as some parts of the castle are exposed to the elements
• Bring a camera to take pictures of the fantastic views and architecture
• Bring a bottle of water, as there are no water fountains inside the castle
• Try to arrive at the castle early, as it can get crowded, and you might face long lines to buy tickets
• Take your time during the tour and ask your guide questions if you have any

Book Your Tour Now

The Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the most significant landmarks in Scotland. This guided tour will take you through the castle’s many parts and provide you with information about its history, architecture, and cultural significance. You will hear stories about Scottish kings and queens, battles, and rebellions, and learn about the castle’s role in shaping Scotland’s history. We hope that this blog post has provided you with all the information you need to plan your Edinburgh Castle Guided Historical Tour and that you have an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful city that is filled with history, culture, and natural wonders. Millions of people visit Edinburgh every year, but many of them have questions about the city. In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions about Edinburgh.

1. What is Edinburgh known for?

Edinburgh is known for its stunning architecture, fascinating history, cultural festivals, and beautiful landscapes. There are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh, including visiting historical sites such as Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Mile, attending the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, hiking in the nearby hills, and enjoying the city’s vibrant restaurant and nightlife scenes.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh largely depends on what you want to see and do. The summer months (June to August) are the busiest time of year, but also when the city’s biggest festivals take place. If you want to experience the city during this vibrant period, make sure to book your accommodation far ahead of time as it can get very busy. The winter months (December to February) are quieter and less crowded, but also feature a number of festive events such as the Edinburgh Christmas Market, Hogmanay celebrations, and more.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a wide range of attractions that cater to all tastes and interests. Some of the most popular places to visit include Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, Princes Street Gardens, and the Scottish National Gallery. For more adventurous visitors, hiking the nearby Pentland Hills or exploring the historical underground tunnels of Mary King’s Close are also great experiences.

4. How do I get around Edinburgh?

The best way to get around Edinburgh is by foot as many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Additionally, the city is well-served by various forms of public transport, including buses, trams, and taxis. If you’re planning on exploring the wider area around Edinburgh, renting a car is recommended.

5. What are some traditional Scottish dishes to try in Edinburgh?

Scotland is home to a rich culinary heritage, and Edinburgh is no exception. Some traditional Scottish dishes to try in Edinburgh include haggis (a savoury pudding made of sheep’s organs, oats, and spices), Cullen skink (a creamy smoked haddock soup), neeps and tatties (a side dish made of turnips and potatoes), and Clootie dumpling (a spiced fruit pudding).

6. Is Edinburgh a safe city to visit?

Yes, Edinburgh is a very safe city to visit. However, like any major city, visitors should take appropriate safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding unlit areas at night. Additionally, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and trust their instincts.

7. What are some free things to do in Edinburgh?

There are plenty of free things to see and do in Edinburgh, including visiting the National Museum of Scotland, exploring the Royal Botanic Garden, taking a stroll along Portobello Beach, and enjoying the street performances during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

8. Where can I stay in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Some popular areas to stay in include Old Town, New Town, and Leith. Additionally, there are plenty of hotels, hostels, and apartments available throughout the city.

9. How do I get to Edinburgh from the airport?

Edinburgh Airport is located around 8 miles west of the city centre. Visitors can get into the city centre by taking the Airlink 100 bus, which departs from the airport every 10 minutes and takes around 25 minutes to reach the city centre. Taxis and rental cars are also available at the airport.

10. What is the weather like in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. The average temperature during the summer months is around 15°C, while the average temperature during the winter months is around 5°C. Visitors should bring appropriate clothing for the season and be prepared for rain at any time of year.

In Book Your Tour Now

Edinburgh is a beautiful city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Edinburgh offers a range of experiences that are sure to delight. By answering these common questions, we hope to have provided you with some helpful information for your visit to Edinburgh.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning scenery. As a tourist in Edinburgh, there are numerous things to see and do, from exploring Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile to taking a hike up Arthur’s Seat. Here is a step-by-step guide to spending your time as a tourist in Edinburgh.

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, located on Castle Rock, is the most iconic landmark in the city. It offers a magnificent view of the city and houses numerous attractions, including the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum of Scotland. To make the most of your visit, it is best to arrive early in the morning when it opens. The castle is open daily from 9:30am to 6:00pm, and admission fees range from £9.60 to £17.00 depending on your age and whether you want to include an audio guide.

2. Stroll down the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a series of streets stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the monarch. It is lined with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and pubs. One of the most lively spots on the Royal Mile is the Mercat Cross, where you can watch street performers and listen to the sounds of bagpipes. Just a short walk away is St Giles’ Cathedral, a stunning medieval church where John Knox once preached.

3. Take a Hike up Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano and the highest point in Edinburgh. Hiking up the hill takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. The view from the top is simply breathtaking, overlooking the entire city and beyond. You can also explore the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel and enjoy a picnic on the hilltop.

4. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history, culture, and science. It holds a vast collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient weaponry to cutting-edge technology. The museum is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm, and admission is free. However, some special exhibitions may require a fee.

5. Take a Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is known as one of the most haunted cities in the world, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers. There are numerous ghost tours available in the city, taking you to some of the most haunted spots and telling you spine-tingling stories. One of the most popular ghost tours is the City of the Dead tour, which takes you through the infamous Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Blair Street Underground Vaults.

6. Explore the Scottish Parliament Building

The Scottish Parliament Building is a stunning architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned Catalan architect, Enric Miralles. It is open to the public, and you can take a free guided tour to learn more about the Scottish Parliament and its role in the country’s history and politics. Tours are available daily from Monday to Saturday, and booking in advance is recommended.

7. Cruise on the Firth of Forth

The Firth of Forth is a scenic estuary located just outside Edinburgh. Taking a cruise on the Firth is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and admire the beautiful coastline. The cruise takes you past the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and other landmarks such as Inchcolm Island and the Isle of May. There are several companies offering cruises, and prices range from £10 to £25 depending on the duration and route.

Book Your Tour Now

Edinburgh is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring its architecture, visiting its museums or hiking its hills, there is something for every type of tourist in Edinburgh. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.