Edinburgh Castle Without the Crowds Exclusive Pre Opening Tour
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.
Options
Full Day Tour with VIP Castle
Duration: 4 hours: Tour Edinburgh Castle before it opens to the public, stroll down the Royal Mile, and visit Holyrood Palace—all in one day!
What's included in Edinburgh Castle Without the Crowds Exclusive Pre Opening Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
Inclusions
- 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
- 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.
- Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
- Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- 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 Points
- If a full day tour option selected — your tour ends at Holyrood Palace.
- Outside Edinburgh Castle.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
- Please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. The group must enter the museum at the stated time and will be unable to wait for late-comers. No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no shows after tour commencement or departure. - The castle is reached across the esplanade – a wide area of smooth tarmac, with an uphill gradient of 5 degrees. - Suitcases and large rucksacks (30L or over) are not permitted in the castle. - Unable to store luggage, prams, pushchairs or other personal items for visitors. - Bag searches at the castle entrance as part of our security screening process. - Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated. - Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
