Edinburgh Castle

In a commanding position, overlooking the city from the top of a dormant volcano, Edinburgh Castle is the most popular attraction in the city and welcomes nearly 1.5 million visitors every year. Visitors are drawn to the unrivalled views, the 800 years of history within the castle walls, and the highlight of any visit – the glorious crown, sceptre and Sword of State that make up the Scottish Crown Jewels. Be sure to time your visit for 1pm to hear the boom of the ‘One O’Clock Gun’ firing!

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

The official Scottish residence of The Queen provides not only a captivating look at the living and entertaining spaces of royals through the ages, but also a chance to see some of the finest artworks in the Royal Collection. Take a tour of the beautiful State Apartments, including the Throne Room, used for official luncheons attended by knights and ladies, the Morning Room in which a private audience with HM The Queen takes place, and the fabulous artworks of the Great Gallery are housed. Arguably the only historical Holyroodhouse resident more famous than Queen Elizabeth II is Mary Queen of Scots, and a tour of her chambers is a fascinating insight into 16th century royal history.

The Royal Yacht Britannia

There’s arguably no finer way to experience the high life than with a visit to the Queen’s former yacht – over the years the ship has hosted countless world leaders, fellow royals and members of high society. As well as the luxury of the State Apartments, Royal Bedrooms, the Sun Lounge and the Royal Deck Tea Room, you’ll also get to experience what life was like ‘below stairs’ with access to the laundry room, the medical centre, the spectacular engine room, and even the on-board garage that houses the yacht’s resident Rolls Royce!

Hop-on-hop-off Bus Tour

Your Royal Edinburgh Ticket includes 48 hours of unlimited travel on Edinburgh’s sightseeing bus tours – use the buses to get to the three royal attractions, and see the other sights of the beautiful city centre along your way.

Upon booking you will receive an e-voucher from VisitBritain by email. Please print this voucher and take it to Edinburgh Bus Tours Ticket Sellers, Waverley Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1BQ.

Opening times:

• January - March, October: 9am - 5pm
• April - May: 9am - 6pm 
• June - September: 9am - 8pm 
• November - December: 9am - 4pm

Edinburgh Castle opening times:

• April to September, 9.30am - 6pm
• October to end March, 9.30am - 5pm

Palace of Holyroodhouse opening times:

• March - October, 9.30am - 6pm (last admission 4.30pm)
• November - March, 9.30am - 4.30pm (last admission 3.15pm)
• The Palace is closed during Royal visits, 15 May - 26 May, 26 June - 7 July and 25 - 26 December
• As the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working palace, opening arrangements are subject to change at short notice. Please check before planning a visit.

Royal Yacht Britannia opening times:

• January, February, March, November and December: 10am - 3.30pm
• April, May, June, July, August, September: 9.30am - 4.30pm
• October: 9.30am - 4pm
• Last admission on 24 December is 2.30pm and 31 December is 3pm

Accessibility

Edinburgh Castle – located on top of a steep slope which may be challenging for some disabled customers. Some areas are not wheelchair accessible due to width restrictions. Wheelchairs are available to borrow, first come first served.

Palace of Holyroodhouse – full wheelchair access to most areas, with Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers the main exception due to its spiral staircase. Wheelchairs  are available to borrow. Mobility scooters permitted up to 375kg.

Royal Yacht Britannia – full wheelchair access on board and in visitor centre, but electric wheelchairs cannot be used in certain areas due to size restrictions. Wheelchairs available to borrow free of charge

Hop on hop off bus tour – Buses have low floors and are accessible for wheelchair users