Edinburgh Castle Entrance Fee: What You Need to Know Before You Visit

Edinburgh Castle is more than just a historic fortress—it is the very heart of Scotland’s dramatic past, perched high above the city and inviting millions of visitors each year. If you’re planning to explore this iconic landmark, understanding the entrance fee structure, ticket types, and value-added options is essential for making the most of your experience. This guide offers all the details you need, plus insider tips for saving money and ensuring a smooth visit.

Essential Highlights

Standard Edinburgh Castle ticket prices range from £13.00 (children) to £24.00 (adults) at the gate, with discounts for online bookings and concessions[4].
Family tickets offer significant savings for groups; children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult[4].
Booking online guarantees the best price and your spot, especially during the busy season[4][1].
Premium experiences, such as guided tours and afternoon tea, can be bundled with admission for a unique visit[4][5].
Flexible tickets and Explorer Passes are available for visitors who want extra flexibility or plan to visit multiple historic sites[1].
Free or discounted admission is available for select groups—read on for details.
All up-to-date ticket options and prices are available on the official Edinburgh Castle tickets page[4].

Edinburgh Castle Ticket Prices for 2025
Types of Tickets and Packages Available
Money-Saving Tips and Free Admission Options
How to Book Your Edinburgh Castle Tickets
Visiting Edinburgh Castle: Practical Info
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Edinburgh Castle Ticket Prices for 2025

Understanding the fee structure for Edinburgh Castle is key to planning your visit—and your budget. Prices can differ depending on age, ticket type, and booking method.

Standard Admission (Walk-Up):
- Adult (16-64): £24.00
- Child (7-15): £14.50
- Concession (65+ or unemployed): £19.00
Online Booking Discounts:
- Adult: £21.50
- Child: £13.00
- Concession: £17.00
Family Ticket Options (Online Prices):
- 1 Adult + 2 Children: £42.50
- 2 Adults + 2 Children: £62.00
- 2 Adults + 3 Children: £74.00
Flexi Tickets: Allow you to visit at any time on your chosen date (higher price, ideal for flexibility)
- Adult Flexi Ticket: £35.00
- Concession Flexi Ticket: £28.00
- Child Flexi Ticket: £21.00
Children under 7: Free, but must be accompanied by an adult.

Concessions apply for seniors (65+), and proof of eligibility is required. Students are not currently included in concession pricing[4].
For more details and the latest updates, visit the Edinburgh Castle Entrance Fee page.

Types of Tickets and Packages Available

Edinburgh Castle offers a variety of tickets and packages to enhance your visit. Here’s an overview:

Standard Entry Ticket

Best for: Most visitors
Includes: General admission, access to all main attractions and exhibits inside the castle

Flexi Ticket

Best for: Visitors who need flexible arrival times
Includes: Entry at any time during castle opening hours on your chosen date[4][7]

Family Tickets

Best for: Families or groups with children
Includes: Discounted combined entry for adults and children (see prices above)

Afternoon Tea Experience

Best for: Those seeking a special treat
Includes: Castle admission plus afternoon tea, with optional Prosecco or Edinburgh Castle Gin[4]

Guided Tours and Audio Guides

Available in multiple languages
Guided walking tours can be booked separately or bundled with tickets for deeper historical insights[5][8]
Audio guides: Offered in 12 languages, covering the castle’s highlights[1]

Explorer Pass

Best for: Visitors touring multiple Scottish historic sites
Includes: Entry to Edinburgh Castle and many other attractions for 14 days[1]

All ticket types are explained in detail on the official Edinburgh Castle tickets page[4] and at EntranceFee.co.uk.

Money-Saving Tips and Free Admission Options

There are several ways to save money or even visit for free:

Book Online: Secure the lowest price and guarantee your entry[1][4].
Family Tickets: Significant discounts for families and groups with children.
Explorer Pass: Great value if you plan to visit other Historic Environment Scotland sites.
Concessions: Reduced prices for those 65+ and people currently unemployed (with proof).
Special Offers: Occasionally available through third-party tour providers or official promotions—check before you book.
Free Entry Days: Throughout the year, some special events or Scottish heritage days may offer free or heavily discounted entry. Always check ahead on the castle’s official website.

How to Book Your Edinburgh Castle Tickets

The simplest and safest way to book your Edinburgh Castle tickets is online in advance.

Official booking: Visit EntranceFee.co.uk/edinburgh-castle-entrance-fee for current prices and ticket availability.
Third-party vendors: Some authorized sellers offer package tours, sometimes bundled with walking tours, skip-the-line access, or special experiences[5][8].
On the day: Walk-up tickets are available, but prices are higher and availability is not guaranteed—especially in peak season.

Once tickets are issued, the date and time are fixed—re-entry after exiting is not permitted[7].

Visiting Edinburgh Castle: Practical Info

Make your visit smooth and memorable by knowing these practical details:

Opening Hours: Daily, 09:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)[7]
Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, Scotland
Accessibility: Courtesy vehicle available for visitors with disabilities; ramps and lifts in key areas[1]
Security: Large bags, sharp objects, and weapons are not allowed. All visitors may be subject to bag searches[7]
Facilities: Cafés, gift shops, restrooms, and a range of exhibits including the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and museums[1][2]
Special Experiences: Afternoon tea, guided tours, and the iconic One O’Clock Gun firing (arrive early to secure a viewing spot)[4][1]
Photography: Permitted for personal use, but restrictions apply in certain areas.

For full details, consult the official Edinburgh Castle visitor information or the Historic Environment Scotland site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to book Edinburgh Castle tickets in advance?
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as entry is timed and popular slots often sell out[4][1].

2. What age qualifies for a concession ticket?
Concessions apply for visitors aged 65 and over or those unemployed (with valid proof). Students are not included in the concession rate[4].

3. Is entrance free for children?
Children under 7 years old enter free, but must be accompanied by an adult. Family tickets for older children are available at a discounted rate[4].

4. Are guided tours included in the ticket price?
Standard tickets do not include guided tours, but you can book guided tours or audio guides separately for an enhanced experience[5][1].

5. What should I bring for entry?
Bring your ticket (printed or digital) and a valid photo ID. For concessions, bring proof of eligibility[7].

6. Can I exit and re-enter the castle on the same day?
No, re-entry is not permitted after you leave the castle grounds[7].

7. Where can I find up-to-date ticket prices and book online?
For the latest prices, booking, and updates, visit EntranceFee.co.uk/edinburgh-castle-entrance-fee.

Useful Links

Planning your Scottish adventure? Let EntranceFee.co.uk guide your journey with transparent pricing, insider tips, and everything you need for a seamless Edinburgh Castle visit!

Edinburgh Castle Entrance Fee