Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
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The area
Neighbourhood: Old Town
Few Edinburghers live in the Old Town, but its labyrinth of dank alleys and steep streets suggests this was not always the case. Today, it’s mostly visitors, tartan-flavoured souvenir shops, and pipers that you’ll find on its cobbled streets. This is the place to get a feel for Auld Reekie (Old Smelly), as the town was once nicknamed, and stroll the Royal Mile, the thoroughfare that links the castle with the royal palace – two of Edinburgh’s great set-piece attractions. But there’s lots more exploring to do here down dozens of little alleys, or wynds, while at night the city’s busiest clubs erupt along the Cowgate which is closed to traffic for this purpose.
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Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
2,198 within 3 miles
Attractions
558 within 6 miles
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4.0
82 reviews
Excellent
25
Very good
40
Average
13
Poor
1
Terrible
3
Rosemarie
Esk, Australia14 contributions
May 2021 • Family
There are people who are using amplification device on their mics to shout out history and give tour commentary. This makes this place noisiest, like parts of Asia, we have been to. Utter chaos. We did not enjoy here.
Written 26 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Legate
United Kingdom21,893 contributions
Mar 2019
The Edinburgh Castle Esplanade is a large open space in front of the Castle’s Gate House. It was originally a parade ground for resident troops and was built in 1753. It has changed in appearance since then and has remained mainly unchanged since 1820. The esplanade is used every year for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo as well as live concerts which are often held in the grounds. The whole area is often overwhelmed with tourists but a worthwhile place to visit with incredible views.
Written 26 August 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
🥳 🎉 🥳 Keep Life Simple 🥳🎉🥳
Pittsburgh, PA127,138 contributions
Sept 2018 • Couples
This is a great view of Edinburgh, It is Probably the best you will get . You can see for miles and worth it
Written 9 October 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
emelita leornas
Emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates165 contributions
May 2019 • Friends
Edinburgh Castle comprises a massive area. We were dropped from our coach and walked few metres along with the que towards the main entrance. Morning crowd to me is I think much better as we still manage to join the Guided Tour and entry to different buildings within the castle was manageable. The view at the top was priceless and we did witness the 1:00 pm cannon shot ceremony. We've seen the areas with restaurants as well but had to get back to our coach for another scheduled tour. Memorable Edinburgh Castle...
Written 15 June 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wombling_Free_7548
Bristol, UK2,138 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
It is free of charge to walk up to the front of the castle, which makes for a good photo op. Also gives you good views of Edinburgh.
Written 5 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amy M
12 contributions
Oct 2019 • Couples
Had a fantastic time at the castle. Lots to see and do but extremely busy! Staff very friendly and an experience you cannot miss if going to Edinburgh.
Written 6 November 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
papio2014
Los Gigantes, Spain10 contributions
Jul 2019 • Couples
Spectacular setting for a global pop star, the walk up through the old town and the view of the castle behind the stage really set the tone for a great night.
Written 19 July 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Noraatc
Sudbury, MA39,621 contributions
Sept 2018 • Couples
Great place to photograph the Castle and the gates, but this place is totally mobbed by tourist groups. However, we easily bought our tickets and did not wait in line for a long time - maybe because of the nasty weather.
Beware of the wind and dress appropriately.
Beware of the wind and dress appropriately.
Written 10 November 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christos
Thessaloniki, Greece6,722 contributions
May 2018 • Friends
A place that you can see the city for two sides.Is in front of the castle,opened so is prefered a nice weather visit.
Written 8 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gaurav C
New Delhi, India2,959 contributions
Mar 2019
The Esplanade is the sloping forecourt in front of the castle..such a cute ice cream cart here ..what a relief ..annual series of military tattoos performed by British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands, and artistic performance teams on the esplanade of Edinburgh..
Written 9 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How much would a taxi cost from South Queensferry (Cruise ship terminal to Edinburgh Casetle. Are taxi readily available??
Written 28 April 2018
Best way if your in South Queensferry is going by train from South Queensferry railway station to the Waverley Station.
Castle is within walking distance you will see Castle as soon as out of station.
Alan
Written 28 April 2018
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