Immerse yourself in the history of Edinburgh Castle and the beauty of Scotland’s capital city

Stay Near Edinburgh Castle and Discover the Heart of Scotland’s Historic Capital

Staying in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle is an experience like no other. Imagine waking up the steps of one of the world’s most iconic fortresses, with the charm of Old Town Edinburgh all around you. In this guide, we explore the area near Edinburgh Castle as you plan your stay. Whether you’re a history buff eager to immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere or simply a traveller looking for convenient places to stay near Edinburgh Castle, we’ve got you covered with timeless highlights and top accommodation. 

Discovering Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle towers above the city from its perch atop an ancient volcanic rock, defining the skyline with its dramatic presence. This 12th-century castle has witnessed centuries of Scottish history – from medieval conflicts to royal ceremonies – and today it remains Scotland’s most popular attraction, drawing over two million visitors each year​. Inside the castle walls, you can walk through stone halls and museums that bring the past to life. Don’t miss the Honours of Scotland (the nation’s Crown Jewels) and the legendary Stone of Destiny, proudly displayed in the old Royal Palace. The castle’s oldest structure, tiny St. Margaret’s Chapel (circa 1130), is in fact the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh​– a humble space of quiet reflection amid the grand fortress.

One of the simple pleasures of visiting Edinburgh Castle is the panoramic view: from the ramparts you’ll behold sweeping vistas of the city, from the spires of Old Town to the Georgian elegance of New Town and out to the distant sea. If you’re at the castle around midday, be prepared for the boom of the One O’Clock Gun, a cannon fired every day at 1 pm (except Sundays) – an Edinburgh tradition that’s been kept since 1861​. And if you’re lucky enough to visit in August, the castle’s esplanade comes alive with the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This spectacular outdoor show of marching bands, dancers, and pipe bands against the floodlit castle backdrop is an unforgettable highlight of summer in Edinburgh.

Year-round, Edinburgh Castle’s blend of history, culture, and scenery makes it a must-see – and having a hotel nearby means you can easily return for a second look or an atmospheric evening stroll around the castle grounds.

Exploring Around Edinburgh Castle

Staying near Edinburgh Castle puts you in the heart of the Old Town, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and lively attractions. Right outside the castle gates begins the Royal Mile, the historic main street that slopes down from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along this cobbled stretch you’ll find taverns, shops selling kilts and whisky, street performers, and landmarks like the beautiful St. Giles’ Cathedral.

Here are a few nearby attractions and activities that keep the area around the castle abuzz with life, day and night:

The Royal Mile: Stroll this iconic street for a dose of Edinburgh’s medieval charm. Pop into quaint boutiques, whisky shops, or fudge kitchens, and soak up the atmosphere of Old Town architecture and closes (alleyways) that branch off the Mile.

The Scotch Whisky Experience: Located just yards from the castle entrance, this five-star attraction offers interactive tours about Scotland’s famous drink. You can take a ride through a virtual distillery, learn the history of Scotch, and enjoy guided whisky tastings – all under one
roof (perfect for a rainy day!).

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions: Also adjacent to the castle, this fun museum of optical illusions has been entertaining visitors since 1835. Explore five floors of hands-on exhibits and a rooftop camera obscura that projects live panoramas of the city – a delight for families and anyone young at heart.

Grassmarket: A short walk down the hill on the castle’s south side brings you to the Grassmarket, a historic marketplace square. It’s lined with pubs, cafes, and restaurants with outdoor seating, offering a great spot to relax with castle views looming above. By day, browse
independent shops; by night, enjoy live music or a dram of whisky where locals and visitors mingle.

Princes Street Gardens: Just below the castle’s north cliffs lie the picturesque Princes Street Gardens. Once a loch, now a landscaped public park, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. From the gardens you can admire the castle dramatically perched overhead – an ideal photo op,
especially when the castle is lit up after dark.

By staying near Edinburgh Castle, you’ll have all these attractions at your doorstep. You can easily fill your days with history and culture, then be “home” at your hotel within minutes to rest and rejuvenate. It’s the ultimate convenience for sightseeing – no long commutes, just step out and explore. And the ambiance of the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and storybook buildings, creates a truly immersive Edinburgh experience.

Places to Stay Near Edinburgh Castle

After a day of exploring, having a comfortable and well-located hotel is key. Fortunately, the area around Edinburgh Castle boasts some of the city’s finest accommodations - Fraser Suites Edinburgh stands out for its boutique charm and prime location – it’s hard to beat staying on a quiet street right off the Royal Mile, so close to the castle and city sights.

The hotel’s blend of modern comfort with historic character (stained-glass windows and period features in select suites) truly lets you experience Edinburgh’s heritage in style. 

FAQs About Edinburgh Castle

How far is Fraser Suites Edinburgh from Edinburgh Castle?

Fraser Suites Edinburgh is located just a 5-minute walk from the entrance to Edinburgh Castle. Situated on St Giles’ Street just off the Royal Mile, it offers easy access to the castle and surrounding Old Town attractions.

What are the opening hours of Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle is typically open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm in summer (April to September) and 9:30 am to 5:00 pm in winter (October to March). Last entry is one hour before closing. It’s best to check the official website for up-to-date timings before your visit.

Do you need to book tickets in advance for Edinburgh Castle?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Booking ahead not only guarantees entry but can also help you skip the queues at the entrance.

What can you see inside Edinburgh Castle?

Inside Edinburgh Castle, you can explore the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the Royal Palace, St. Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest building in Edinburgh), the Great Hall, and the National War Museum of Scotland. There are also panoramic city views from the ramparts and the famous One O’Clock Gun demonstration.