Edinburgh Castle Without the Crowds Exclusive Pre Opening Tour

5.0
(1 reviews)

1 hour 30 minutes to 4 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Experience Edinburgh Castle like never before. On this once-in-a-lifetime exclusive experience, take a guided tour inside the Castle with only your small group. High season at the castle sees up to 8,000 visitors per day. With your exclusive access join an expert guide and uncover the original Crown Jewels, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and the Great Hall—as well as areas typically off-limits to guiding. This unique experience allows you to soak in the history and panoramic views of Scotland’s capital in rare tranquility only accessible on this newly launched

Opt for a four hour tour option and extend your journey with a guided tour along the historic Royal Mile—famous for its cobbled streets, hidden closes, and historic landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral—top off your day at Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British Royals in Scotland. A perfect Scottish day.

What's Included

Local English-speaking guide
Pre-opening access ticket to Edinburgh Castle
Self-guided audio tour of Holyrood Palace (if option selected)
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Scotch Whiskey Experience located at 354 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1.

End point
This activity ends in a different location. You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 4 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Edinburgh Castle

    Step into history before the public arrives with this tour of Edinburgh Castle—the only one of its kind offering private early access. In one unforgettable morning, your guide will you through its serene grounds and reveal the fascinating history and legends behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step into St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, and marvel at the Great Hall’s magnificent 16th-century ceiling. Your guide will also take you into the Crown Room to see Scotland’s dazzling Crown Jewels up close—without the usual crowds. This tour offers rare access to areas typically off-limits to guided tours, including the Royal Apartments and exhibitions like the Military Prisons. Experience the castle as it was meant to be: a quiet, reflective journey through Scotland’s history.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Lawnmarket

    If a full day tour option selected — Stroll the Lawnmarket and pause to admire the exterior of St. Giles’ Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and key site in Scotland’s religious history.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Royal Mile

    If a full day tour option selected — Walk along the iconic Royal Mile, where your guide will reveal its cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, and fascinating stories of Edinburgh’s past. Then continue over to the Canongate area to discover its historic charm, 16th-century buildings, and connections to the British royal family at Canongate Kirk.

    40 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Palace of Holyroodhouse

    If a full day tour option selected — Conclude your tour at Holyrood Palace, the British monarchs’ official residence in Scotland. Explore its stunning gardens, state rooms, and abbey ruins at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour is in English.
  • This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • The castle is reached across the esplanade – a wide area of smooth tarmac, with an uphill gradient of 5 degrees.
Supplied by Walks - UK

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Tags

Audio Guides
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
New Product

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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5.0 Based on 1 1 review
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