Inside the castle
Highlights of Edinburgh Castle
There is more inside Edinburgh Castle than most tourists expect. Here are the pieces you really shouldn't miss on your visit — from priceless crown jewels to a very loud cannon.
The Honours of Scotland
The oldest crown jewels in Britain — the crown, sceptre and sword of state, used at the coronation of the infant Mary, Queen of Scots in 1543. They sit alongside the ancient Stone of Destiny.
The Stone of Destiny
For centuries Scottish kings were crowned upon this simple block of sandstone. Returned to Scotland in 1996, it stays at the castle between coronations.
The Great Hall
Completed in 1511 for James IV. Its magnificent hammerbeam ceiling is one of only two medieval halls of its kind still standing in Britain.
St Margaret's Chapel
The oldest building in Edinburgh, dating from around 1130. A tiny, tranquil space of Norman stonework still used for services today.
The One O'Clock Gun
Fired at exactly 13:00 every day except Sunday, Good Friday and Christmas Day — a tradition since 1861. Feel the boom echo across the city.
The National War Museum
Four centuries of Scottish military history told through medals, uniforms and personal stories. Free with your castle ticket.
The Prisons of War
Wander through the vaults where French, American and Spanish sailors were held — and see the graffiti they carved into the wooden doors.
Mons Meg
A giant medieval siege cannon given to King James II in 1457. Once able to hurl a 150 kg stone ball two miles — the very definition of impressive.