Edinburgh Castle Free Tour

The Edinburgh Castle free tour is the most comprehensive, entertaining and affordable way to discover the historic jewel of the Scottish capital. For two hours, you'll tour the inner courtyards of the fortress with a professional English-speaking guide, who will take you back through the centuries as you discover how this imposing castle became Scotland's national symbol.

The tour starts at 190 High Street in the heart of the Royal Mile and climbs up to Castle Rock, where the fortress has dominated the city for over 900 years. As you progress, you'll learn about the castle's volcanic origins, its defensive role and its evolution as a royal residence and military stronghold.

During the tour, you will explore some of the castle's most iconic corners:

• Closes of the Royal Mile: narrow passages that served as a natural defence for the city.
• Castle Esplanade: the scene of historic celebrations and parades.
• Victorian Wall: built in the 19th century with sculptures of national heroes.
• Argyle Battery: viewing platform with spectacular views over Edinburgh.
• Hospital Square: home to the National War Museum.
• Governor's House: discover what life was like inside the castle.
• New Barracks: a building still in military use, with a museum about military life.
• Foog Gate: one of the oldest and most mysterious defences.
• St Margaret's Chapel: the oldest building in the city, dedicated to a canonised queen.
• Crown Square: home to the Royal Palace, the Great Hall and the Scottish National War Memorial.

Throughout the tour, you'll hear tales of Mary Stuart, Robert the Bruce and Sir Walter Scott, and learn how every corner of the castle holds an epic story. At the end of the tour, you can continue exploring on your own, visiting museums, chapels or terraces with unparalleled views of Edinburgh.

This walking tour, which takes place entirely in the inner courtyards, combines historical rigour with entertaining narrative, ideal for those looking for a complete and close cultural experience.