Entrance to Edinburgh Castle with blue skies .. Grand fireplace in the Great Hall in Edinburgh Castle .. View of Edinburgh Castle from the Grassmarket .. View of Edinburgh skyline through canon and window at Edinburgh Castle ..

Edinburgh Castle

Historic Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle makes a great day trip from your holiday accommodation here at Loch Lomond Waterfront. Located 68 miles away, you can visit Edinburgh by train or drive there in an hour and a half. This is one of the must-see attractions in Edinburgh, with a network of ancient buildings to explore within the castle walls.

This amazing structure dates, in parts, from the 12th century. The oldest surviving building in the castle grounds is St Margaret’s Chapel, built around 1130. But, over a turbulent history, the castle has been destroyed, rebuilt and developed many times. The current building is very well preserved, with much to see and do on a visit.

Mainly now a historic tourist attraction, the Castle Esplanade also hosts special events, shows and concerts at certain times throughout the year. Including the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a large military display, which takes place every August.

Edinburgh Castle Highlights

There is so much to see at Edinburgh Castle, you could easily spend a whole day. Here is an excellent 2-3 hour itinerary, which ensures you take in all the highlights. Or, if you have a shorter window, there is a 1-hour option.

Enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh from high on Castle Rock. Don’t miss St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh. See the impressive Great Hall and its collection of armour and weapons. At 1pm each day (except Sundays) see the One-o-clock Gun fired as a time signal. Explore the Royal Palace, where kings and queens lived and visited over the centuries. Then behold the Honours of Scotland and Stone of Destiny, first used together for the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots.

For those interested in military history, you can visit the National War Museum, Regimental Museums, Scottish National War Memorial and the Prisons of War.

Find out more

For Edinburgh Castle ticket prices, opening times and further visitor information, plan your visit here.

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Testimonials

  • Such a beautiful setting

    'Myself and my partner recently stayed in Drummond Lodge (from 21-24 Feb) and we just wanted to say thank you so much for a lovely stay. We loved our lodge, it was like a home from home, and we really didn’t want to leave! It was spotlessly clean and in such a beautiful setting. All the staff we met were really friendly. We also loved Balmaha, what a wonderful village. So thank you very much! We are the couple that took Flynn for a walk and we took this photo of him... we thought you’d appreciate a copy. Thanks once again...
  • Our own private beach

    'Just walking along the West Highland way path past some of the crowded beaches made us realise the value of having your own private waterfront onto the loch.  I can still picture walking down to the lochside on our first evening and watching an osprey dive for a fish!'
  • Outstanding

    'Chef in a lodge was outstanding. The food was excellent as was the service. Superb evening.'
  • Right up there with the best

    'We have travelled the world and stayed in all sorts of accommodation - Loch Lomond Waterfront is right up there with the best. The facilities, quality of fixtures and fittings and the setting all add up to a superb holiday experience and one that I have no hesitation in recommending to anyone. Outstanding!'
  • 40th celebration

    'My husband and I came here to celebrate my 40th birthday and we truly had a magnificent time. There was everything that you needed in your accommodation even washing liquid and conditioner for the washing machine. The hot tub and steam room were a real highlight as well as the living log fire.'