How to Plan Your Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most visited attractions in Scotland, and for a good reason. This ancient fortress sits on top of a hill in the heart of the city and boasts panoramic views of the stunning landscape. It is a magnificent structure that has stood for hundreds of years and has been the home of kings and queens, including Mary Queen of Scots. If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, you cannot miss the chance of the Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle. In this how-to guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your tour of Edinburgh Castle.

Experience

The Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle is a two-hour guided walking tour that takes you through the castle’s history, its secrets, and its significance. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the 16th-century Great Hall and the famous Royal Palace, where you’ll learn about the castle’s bloody history and the kings and queens who called it home.

Highlights

The tour is designed to give you a complete experience of Edinburgh’s rich history, so you can expect to cover many exciting highlights. With your skip-the-line ticket, you’ll be able to save time and avoid the long queues at the castle entrance. You’ll explore the most iconic sites of the castle and delve into nearly 3000 years of history alongside the knowledgeable guide. Along the way, you’ll also snap some excellent pictures of the panoramic views of the city from the top of the Castle Rock and UNESCO World Heritage Edinburgh Old Town.

Full Description

The Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle is perfect for history buffs and anyone interested in Scottish heritage. The tour starts at the entrance to the castle, where you’ll meet your guide, and get your skip-the-line ticket. You’ll then enter the castle and head straight to the Great Hall, where you’ll learn about the parties and feasts that occurred there.

From the Great Hall, you’ll head to the Royal Palace, where you’ll learn about the kings and queens who reside there, including Mary Queen of Scots. Other highlights of the tour include the oldest building in Edinburgh, the St. Margaret’s Chapel, built-in 1130, and the One o’ Clock Gun, which fires every day at, you guessed it, 1 pm. Throughout the tour, your guide will share intriguing insights and historical facts about the castle.

Includes

The Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle comes with a guided tour, skip-the-line ticket, and transportation. Your expert guide will take you through the history of the castle and showcase the must-see sites. With your skip-the-line ticket, you’ll quickly skip ahead of the lines and avoid any waiting time. You’ll also walk on foot, and as you experience the tour, you’ll grow a deeper appreciation for this magnificent fortress that’s so precious to Scotland.

Not Suitable for

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments because of the steep inclines and uneven surfaces.

How to Book Your Tour

Booking the Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle is easy. Simply click here to book your tour online.

Conclusion

The Edinburgh: Skip-the-Line Walking Tour of Edinburgh Castle is an exciting experience that will undoubtedly leave you in awe of Edinburgh’s rich history. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll discover the castle’s secrets, snap perfect pictures of the city skyline, and be truly immersed in Scottish heritage. Don’t miss the chance to see Edinburgh’s crown jewel and book your tour today!

Insider’s Guide to Edinburgh: Scotland’s Vibrant Capital

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, famous for its stunning architecture, rolling hills, and rich history. The city is home to many historic landmarks, galleries, museums, and trendy bars and restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes. Visitors to Edinburgh can expect to be treated to an unforgettable experience with a rich blend of history, culture, and modern-day vibe. Here are some recommended top things to do while visiting Edinburgh:

Explore the Majestic Edinburgh Castle

One of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh is the Edinburgh Castle. The iconic fortress has stood watch over the city for centuries and is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Edinburgh. Visitors can learn about the castle’s rich history, from its important role in Scottish history to the Monarchy and military base, to prisoners of war, and even as the inspiration for Hogwarts castle in the Harry Potter series. With the Skip-the-Line walking tour, visitors can access the castle and get a detailed introduction to the castle’s many interesting features, including St. Margaret’s Chapel, the Great Hall, and the One O’clock Gun.

Enjoy a Walk Along the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the city’s main street, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The name Royal Mile is derived from the fact that it was once part of a royal procession route between the two historic buildings. The cobbled streets, historic architecture, souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants make it a charming area that tourists find exciting. It’s home to iconic landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Scotch Whiskey Experience. The street also hosts the Festival Fringe, which is one of the largest arts festivals in the world, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Explore the Edgy and Trendy Neighborhood of Leith

The historic port of Leith has had a long and exciting history, from its importance as a center for trade in the medieval era to the site of Iron Age settlements. Located just a mile from the city center, Leith has become a vibrant and trendy area with a variety of restaurants, lively pubs, and boutique shopping. It’s home to the Royal Yacht Britannia, a historic ship that was once the Queen’s royal yacht. The area is also known for its delicious seafood with restaurants like the Ship on the Shore and Martin Wishart. Another highlight of the neighborhood is the Leith Theatre, a historical venue that hosts various musical and theatrical performances year-round.

Immerse Yourself in Edinburgh’s Literary History

Edinburgh has been a hub of literary activity for centuries. It was the city where the world-famous writers, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and J.K. Rowling called home. Visitors can visit Scott Monument, a memorial to Sir Walter Scott, located in the heart of the city center, or the Writers’ Museum, which celebrates the lives of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Walking tours of the city also offer insight into literary history. The cafe, The Elephant House, is also famous for being the place where J.K. Rowling penned her very first Harry Potter novel.

Take a Hike Up Arthur’s Seat

The hike up Arthur’s Seat, a volcanic rock formation, provides stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding hills. The hike itself takes a little over an hour and boasts some of the most breathtaking views in Edinburgh. The site has been a popular destination for centuries, with legends that make it a must-visit destination. It’s also a perfect place for a picnic on a sunny day, and during winter, the snow offers a serene quality to the ridges.

In conclusion, Edinburgh is a highly recommended destination that has something for travelers of all ages and interests. The rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture make it one of the most desirable places to visit in the UK. When in Edinburgh, make sure to see the iconic Edinburgh Castle, take a walk along the historic Royal Mile before taking in some literature, and appreciate Scotland’s beautiful scenery by hiking up Arthur’s Seat.