Opening times

Tickets often sell out far in advance, especially over the summer months. Book your tickets online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry. Once tickets are sold out online, there will be no further tickets available at the castle.

You should set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle.

Opening times for the independent museums at the castle may vary. 

Castle of Light 

Last entry to the castle on the following dates will be at 2.30pm (closing at 4pm):

22-23 & 29-30 November
6-7, 13-15, 20-23 & 27-30 December
2-4 January

The Redcoat café will close at the earlier time of 2.30pm on the above dates.

The Royal Scots Dragoon Guard Museum will be closed for essential maintenance on 28 & 29 November. 

25 and 26 December.

Adverse weather or other reasons beyond our control may cause the castle to close. We advise checking ahead if the forecast is poor or you are making a long journey. Current unexpected and short term closures.

The Royal Scots and The Royal Scots Dragoon Guard Museums are run by volunteers and may have different opening times.

The gun is fired every day at 1pm, except on Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day.

Please be aware that we are currently implementing some new measures with the Ministry of Defence in relation to the viewing of the One O’clock Gun. As part of this, visitors are asked to please arrive at the new marked areas at least 10 minutes before the firing of the gun, and follow guidance from castle staff. We will limit access to some areas surrounding the gun until after it has been fired.

Redcoat Café

Portcullis Shop | Crown Gift Shop | Whisky and Finest Food Shop

1 April to 30 September:
Daily, 9.45am to 5.40pm 

1 October to 31 March:
Daily, 9.45am to 4.40pm 

For operational reasons, shop opening times may differ to those advertised.