Viator Rating : 5 (5478 reviews)
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle Tour: Skip-the-Line Entry & Guided Walk
90
Overview
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket invites visitors to explore Scotland's rich history. This walking tour takes everyone to one of Scotland’s most popular spots where stories of kings, queens, and bloody battles come to life.
The journey begins on the Royal Mile before heading to Edinburgh Castle. Hear about the castle's start and the many times it was attacked. Once inside, a guide will lead through the fortress, sharing interesting stories. Key attractions include the historic Stirling Castle, museums, prisons, and the Chapel of Saint Margaret. Visitors also see the National Monument and the Great Hall. (Note: the entire tour is outdoors; buildings are not accessible).
The tour includes entrance tickets and a guided experience of Edinburgh Castle. It does not include tips and does not allow pets, except for guide dogs. 
Highlights
Explore Edinburgh Castle: Discover the secrets and stories of this famous Scottish fortress.
Skip the Line Entry: Save time and avoid long queues with pre-booked tickets.
Expert Guided Tour: Learn from a knowledgeable guide about the castle's history.
Walk the Royal Mile: Start the journey on Edinburgh's historic and famous street.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the guide's stories and knowledge.
-
Visitors appreciated the skip-the-line access that saved time.
-
Many enjoyed learning about Scottish history in a fun way.
-
Some reviewers highlighted the beautiful views from the castle.
A few found it crowded, making it hard to hear the guide.
-
Some wished there was more time inside the castle to explore on their own.
The Journey
Stirling Castle
Step back in time at Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant fortresses. For 1 hour and 10 minutes, explore the opulent Royal Palace, once home to Mary Queen of Scots, and marvel at the grandeur of the 16th-century Great Hall, where lavish feasts and pivotal events unfolded. After your guided tour, immerse yourself further within its walls until closing time. Witness the iconic Stirling Heads, intricate carved oak portraits of royalty and courtiers, and absorb the panoramic views from the ramparts, offering a commanding vista of the surrounding landscape and battlefields that shaped Scotland's destiny. Stirling Castle is not just a castle; it's a journey into the heart of Scottish history.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes entrance fees and a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. Gratuities are not included. Pets are not allowed, with the exception of guide dogs. Make sure to meet your guide at the designated meeting point on the Royal Mile for the start of your historical journey.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest arriving a bit early to the meeting point to get a good spot in the group and be able to hear the guide clearly. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as there is a good bit of walking involved!
Review Summary
Customers generally say the Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour is informative and well-paced, with knowledgeable guides who bring the castle's history to life. Many appreciate the skip-the-line entry and the opportunity to explore the grounds afterward. Some negative feedback mentions the tour is not wheelchair accessible and that the guided portion remains outdoors, with no access to interior buildings during the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Edinburgh
£32
Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour - Make & Taste Chocolate!
5.0
(4283 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh offers a delightful adventure into the world of chocolate. This experience allows guests to see and touch the fruit of the chocolate tree, learning how the beans are transformed into delicious chocolate.
Participants can have fun making their own Scottish-themed chocolate to take home. Choices include creating a chocolate Greyfriar's Bobby, a chocolate Nessie, or even a chocolate Edinburgh Castle! Next, visitors can explore the tasting room, which features a wide selection of chocolates from both Scottish and international chocolate makers. With over 30 varieties available, there's something for everyone, including Haggis chocolate, Japanese chocolate, and chilli chocolate.
Finally, guests wrap their delicious chocolates to take home, where they can enjoy them or give them as gifts. Chocolate samples are provided throughout the tour. Vegan or milk-free options are also available. The Chocolatarium is highly rated and this tour is suitable for adults and children aged 6+.
Edinburgh
£50
Highlands & Glenfinnan Viaduct Day Trip from Edinburgh
4.9
(4177 reviews)
Duration: 720
minutes
Full-Day Trip: Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Highlands from Edinburgh offers a magical journey through the iconic landscapes of Scotland, famed for their appearances in the Harry Potter and James Bond film series. This bus tour caters to movie buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable Scottish adventure.
Travelers can expect a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands, passing landmarks like Linlithgow Palace, the Kelpies, and Stirling Castle. The tour heads north through Glencoe, where the driver/guide will point out filming locations from the James Bond and Harry Potter franchises. A stop in the Fort William area for lunch precedes a short drive to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a highlight made famous by the Hogwarts Express scenes in the Harry Potter movies. There's a short walk to a viewpoint with views over Loch Shiel and the viaduct, in time for the Jacobite Steam train crossing (seasonal: April 7 to October 24, 2025). The return journey includes a relaxing drive through the Highland scenery and a stop in the historic town of Pitlochry, before returning to Edinburgh via the Forth Rail Bridge.
This experience includes a scenic tour through the Highlands with regular stops for photos and rest breaks and viewing the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (seasonal). It excludes food and drink and individual hotel pick-ups and drop-offs. Note that children under 5 are not permitted. Key tour stops include Callander, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Pitlochry. With an English-speaking driver guide and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, this full-day tour promises comfort and convenience.
Edinburgh
£52
Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh
4.9
(3580 reviews)
Duration: 750
minutes
Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh takes travelers on a bus tour through Scotland's most iconic landscapes. This adventure is perfect for those wanting to see lochs and mountains, explore historical sites, and learn about Scottish culture, all in one day.
The tour visits famous places like Glencoe, where you can take photos of the Three Sisters mountains. The tour stops near Fort William before going into the Great Glen, where you can see Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. The tour also visits Fort Augustus, a small village where people can take an optional boat trip on Loch Ness. Travelers will also visit Callander, Loch Tulla & Glen Orchy Viewpoint, Commando Memorial, Spean Bridge and Pitlochry.
This trip includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver. It includes stops at Loch Ness and photo and rest breaks. Food, drinks, admission fees and individual hotel pick-ups are not included. Children under 5 are not allowed and should bring ID to prove their age.
Celtic Park
£18.5
Celtic Park Stadium Tour: Walk in Legends' Footsteps
4.9
(3112 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Guided Celtic Park Stadium Tour in Glasgow lets visitors soak up the history and feel the passion of this iconic stadium. This 60-minute guided tour takes fans behind the scenes at Celtic Park, offering a unique look at the home of the Celtic Football Club.
The tour allows fans to walk in the footsteps of legends, starting in the dressing room and proceeding down the tunnel to experience the atmosphere pitch side from the dugout. Key stops include Celtic Park itself, the Kerrydale/Number 7 Entrance, and the Sports Bar. During the tour, a local guide shares insights and stories about the club's rich history and achievements.
What's included is a professional guide and tour escort. What's excluded are gratuities and transportation to/from attractions. This experience offers an in-depth look at one of soccer's most storied venues.
Edinburgh
£38
Edinburgh Castle Tour: Skip-the-Line & History
4.9
(5211 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
The Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English lets visitors jump the line and explore Scotland's famous castle. This walking tour is great for anyone who wants to learn about the castle's long history and see its important sights.
During the tour, expect to discover why Edinburgh Castle is important to Scotland's story. The tour guide will share stories about the castle's past, covering 3,000 years of history. See where kings and queens lived and hear about battles that changed Scotland.
The tour includes a local guide and entry fees to the castle. Gratuities are not included. This experience will start at 192 High Street, by the statue of Adam Smith.
Edinburgh
£14
Edinburgh Harry Potter Locations Tour: Guided Magic!
4.9
(4209 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh takes people on a fun walk around Edinburgh. This tour is perfect for Harry Potter fans of all ages.
Walk where the actors walked and see the places that gave ideas to the movies and books. Your guide knows everything about Harry Potter and will test your knowledge with games and trivia. You might even win a prize!
See Edinburgh Castle and other famous spots that helped create the magical world of Harry Potter. This tour includes a professional guide to show the way. It does not include tips, food, drinks, or hotel transportation.
Nearby Events
The Stand Comedy Club
Mar 18
8:00 PMTom Rosenthal Live in Glasgow | Stand Comedy Club
Tom Rosenthal - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I Am brings the award-winning comedian's latest stand-up show to The Stand Comedy Club in Glasgow. Known for his razor-sharp observational humor and cleverly crafted punchlines, Rosenthal has built a reputation as one of Britain's most accomplished comedians through his critically acclaimed live performances and television work. This intimate comedy experience showcases why audiences across the UK have embraced his unique brand of humor during his extensive tour runs.
Beyond his stand-up prowess, Rosenthal is celebrated for his television roles, including his iconic performance as Jonny Goodman in the BAFTA-winning Friday Night Dinner, which attracted average audiences of 3.9 million viewers on Channel 4. The Stand Comedy Club in Glasgow provides the perfect venue for experiencing his comedy in an up-close, personal setting that allows his storytelling and wit to truly shine.
Barrowland Ballroom
Feb 13
7:00 PMBook Tickets: Punk Rock Factory Live at Barrowland Ballroom
Punk Rock Factory returns to the stage with a powerhouse performance at Glasgow's legendary Barrowland Ballroom, known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic design. This event showcases the band's high-energy pop-punk covers that have captivated audiences worldwide, blending nostalgic hits with a fierce punk rock twist.
Punk Rock Factory, a global phenomenon since 2014, has transformed pop classics into punk anthems, earning millions of fans across social media and packed tours. Their unique mix of fun, musicianship, and relentless energy makes every live show an unforgettable celebration. Barrowland Ballroom, a staple in Glasgow’s music scene, offers an intimate setting that amplifies the band's electrifying presence.
Queens Hall Edinburgh
Feb 27
7:00 PMLucy Rose Live: Queens Hall Edinburgh Tickets
Lucy Rose performs at Queens Hall Edinburgh, bringing her intimate indie-folk and finely crafted songwriting to a historic Edinburgh stage known for superb acoustics and up-close shows.[3] The show blends songs from her recent work and fan favorites—an emotionally honest set anchored by Rose’s breathy vocals and acoustic textures as she continues to tour and promote new music following recent releases and ongoing festival appearances.[4]
Lucy Rose built her reputation collaborating with acts like Bombay Bicycle Club and releasing acclaimed albums such as Like I Used To and No Words Left, earning praise for candid lyrics and a warm, lived-in sound.[2] Queens Hall Edinburgh is a respected mid-size venue celebrated for audience sightlines and sound clarity, making it ideal for Lucy Rose’s nuanced performance style.[3]
Alhambra Theatre
Mar 21
7:30 PMTina Turner Tribute Live at Alhambra Theatre
What's Love Got to do With it - Tina Turner Tribute brings a high-energy tribute concert to Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline, celebrating the firebrand vocals and unstoppable stagecraft of Tina Turner in a night of anthems and show-stopping choreography. The tribute act tours clubs and theatres, earning praise for faithful vocal delivery and dynamic staging that channels Turner’s signature grit and glamour.
What's Love Got to do With it - Tina Turner Tribute recreates Turner’s biggest hits and era-defining moments with a full band, costume changes, and powerhouse vocals that appeal to dedicated fans and casual listeners alike. The Alhambra Theatre is a historic Grade B–listed venue in Dunfermline noted for its restored, atmospheric auditorium and flexible seating capacity suitable for intimate and full-scale live shows.
OVO Hydro
Feb 04
6:30 PMJames Arthur Live at OVO Hydro Glasgow 2026
James Arthur brings his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics to OVO Hydro in Glasgow, delivering a powerful live experience that showcases his latest music and fan-favorite hits. Known for his chart-topping singles like 'Say You Won't Let Go' and 'Impossible', Arthur continues to captivate audiences with his blend of pop and alternative rock, making this concert a must-see for music lovers.
With a career marked by resilience and artistic growth, James Arthur has become a prominent figure in contemporary British music. OVO Hydro, one of the UK’s most iconic arenas, offers a world-class setting for unforgettable live performances, ensuring fans get the best possible experience.
Queens Hall Edinburgh
Mar 21
7:30 PMClinton Baptiste Live Comedy at Queens Hall Edinburgh
Clinton Baptiste: Spectral Intercourse brings an electrifying blend of comedy and theatrical performance to Queens Hall Edinburgh, a venue renowned for its superb acoustics and diverse arts programming. This show promises a unique comedic experience that highlights Clinton Baptiste's signature style, combining wit and ghostly intrigue.
Clinton Baptiste, famed for his prowess in blending comedy with ghostly storytelling, continues to captivate audiences with his sharp humor and charismatic stage presence. Queens Hall, a historic Edinburgh venue originally a chapel, is a cultural hotspot hosting over 200 events annually including comedy, jazz, and classical music, valued for its intimate atmosphere and high-quality sound.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Glasgow
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Glasgow From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Historical Tours & Rock in Glasgow. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Glasgow Activities