Edinburgh Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

The imposing castle that stands on the craggy mound of an extinct volcano in the heart of Edinburgh is the city's top attraction, a proud symbol of the Scots nation. The castle rock has been inhabited since 800 BC, but today most of the remaining structures date from around the 16th century (except for St Margaret's chapel, Edinburgh's oldest building, dating from the early 12th century). Of all the things to see and experience at the castle (including the spectacular view of the city) the favourite for visitors is the Crown Room, which contains the Scottish crown jewels and regalia of state. Also on view here is the legendary 'Stone of Scone' upon which all the monarchs of Scotland have been crowned. The castle also still functions as a military headquarters, and is the site of the annual, world-renowned and most spectacular military tattoo, held in August. At 1pm each day, except Sunday, the one o'clock gun is fired, traditionally to allow ships in the Firth of Forth to check their chronometers. The gun is also fired at New Year to mark midnight during the Hogmanay celebrations. Tickets should be pre-bought online to avoid queuing on arrival.

Address: Castlehill; Website: www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk; Telephone: (0)131 225 9846; Opening time: Daily (except 25-26 December) from 9.30am to 6pm, with early closing at 5pm in winter (1 October to 31 March). Last entry 45 minutes before closing time. Opening times for independent museum in the castle complex may vary; Admission: £9.79 (adults), £4.89 (children 5-15 years). Other concessions available