Top 7 Castles around Edinburgh

Several castles near Edinburgh offer great experiences for families. Holyrood Palace is an official royal residence with a rich history. Lauriston Castle frequently hosts costume performances and family activities within its beautiful grounds, which include a Japanese Garden. Craigmillar Castle, a medieval ruin, allows children to explore its tower house, tunnels, and courtyard, sparking imagination.

Yes, beyond the royal residences, you can explore castles with distinct historical roles. Craigmillar Castle, for instance, is a well-preserved medieval ruin known for its strong ties to Mary, Queen of Scots, and the 'Craigmillar Bond'. Blackness Castle, often called 'the ship that never sailed' due to its unique shape, served primarily as a garrison fortress and state prison, offering insight into military life rather than royal luxury.

Many castles are set amidst beautiful landscapes. Craigmillar Castle offers panoramic views of Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Park, from its tower house, and is surrounded by woodland paths. Blackness Castle provides spectacular views across the Firth of Forth due to its dramatic coastal setting. Additionally, Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcanic rock, offers commanding views across the Edinburgh region and the Firth of Forth, and is near Holyrood Palace.

The area around Edinburgh's castles is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and mountain biking. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'Edinburgh Old Town tour' or 'Capital View Trail'. If you're into running, explore running trails such as the 'Granton and Ferry Road Path Loop'. Mountain bikers can enjoy MTB trails like the 'Blackness castle loop from Dalmeny'.

While Edinburgh Castle is iconic, Craigmillar Castle is often considered Edinburgh's 'other castle' and provides a less crowded, more atmospheric medieval experience. Lauriston Castle is another hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape within a picturesque public park and a unique glimpse into an Edwardian home. Blackness Castle, with its distinctive shape and coastal setting, also offers a unique visit away from the city center crowds.

Visiting castles around Edinburgh is enjoyable throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather for exploring grounds and less crowded conditions. Summer brings longer daylight hours and often more events, though attractions can be busier. Winter visits can be magical, especially with snow, and many castles remain open, offering a dramatic and atmospheric backdrop, though some facilities or outdoor areas might have reduced access.

Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace are both centrally located and easily reachable on foot or by local buses. Craigmillar Castle is just three miles southeast of the city center and can be reached by local bus services. Lauriston Castle is also accessible via public transport on the northwestern outskirts of the city.

Yes, many castles or their immediate vicinities offer refreshment options. Lauriston Castle has a cafe on-site. In the city center, near Edinburgh Castle, you'll find numerous cafes and pubs, including Cold Town House, which offers food and drinks with views of the castle. For castles further afield, checking local village amenities nearby is recommended.

While many indoor castle attractions have restrictions, the grounds and outdoor areas of some castles are often dog-friendly. For example, the expansive grounds of Lauriston Castle are suitable for walks with dogs on a lead. It's always best to check the specific castle's official website for their most current dog policy before visiting, especially for interior access.

Edinburgh Castle is one of Europe's oldest fortified sites, perched dramatically on an ancient volcanic rock. It has served as a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress, witnessing pivotal events in Scottish history. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Scone, St. Margaret's Chapel (the oldest building within), and the Mons Meg cannon. It's also where James VI was born to Mary Queen of Scots.

Craigmillar Castle is notable for its well-preserved 14th-century tower house, one of Scotland's oldest. It features a unique inner courtyard, medieval tunnels, and a 'P'-shaped fishpond. Its strong connection to Mary, Queen of Scots, who used it as a safe haven and where the 'Craigmillar Bond' was signed, adds to its allure. It also offers stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh and has been featured in 'Outlander'.

Many castles offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Edinburgh Castle, with its dramatic perch and city views, is iconic. Blackness Castle's unique 'ship' shape and coastal setting against the Firth of Forth make for striking images. Craigmillar Castle, with its atmospheric ruins and views of Arthur's Seat, is also very photogenic. The Japanese Garden at Lauriston Castle provides beautiful landscape shots.