Craigmillar Castle — Attraction in City of Edinburgh

The Castle nestled on the outskirts of Edinburgh, offers a captivating journey through Scotland's medieval history. As you approach the imposing ruins, you're immediately struck by the castle's commanding presence against the backdrop of the surrounding countryside. Exploring the castle grounds feels like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved structures and atmospheric courtyards. From the moment you enter the gatehouse, you're greeted by the whispers of centuries-old stories waiting to be discovered.The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the great hall, where you can envision grand feasts and noble gatherings that once filled the space. Climbing the winding staircases to the upper levels rewards you with panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond, offering a glimpse into the strategic importance of this fortress. One can't help but marvel at the intricate details of the architecture, from the elegant windows to the sturdy defensive walls. Each corner of Craigmillar Castle holds secrets waiting to be uncovered, making it a paradise for history buffs and curious explorers alike. Whether you're strolling through the tranquil gardens or imagining life within the castle walls, Craigmillar Castle leaves a lasting impression that transports you to a bygone era of knights and kings. It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the magic of Scotland's...

TL;DR: Craigmillar Castle is a well-preserved historic gem near Edinburgh, offering peaceful exploration and fascinating ties to Mary Queen of Scots. Easily accessible via public transport.

Craigmillar Castle is an incredible must-see while visiting Edinburgh! Operated by Historic Environment Scotland, this 14th-century castle is beautifully preserved and steeped in history. It’s easy to access via public transport, followed by a pleasant walk through Craigmillar Castle Park.

The castle is famous for its connection to Mary Queen of Scots, who sought refuge here in 1566 after the birth of her son, James VI, and during a turbulent period in her reign. It’s also known as one of Scotland’s best-preserved castles, with additions made over centuries, including a 15th-century tower house and various fortifications.

The accessible parts of the castle include clean, well-maintained areas with informative plaques that offer insights into its rich history, from its medieval origins to its role in Scotland's political intrigue. Standing on the same ground as Mary Queen of Scots and taking in the stunning views from the ramparts was awe-inspiring.

With its serene surroundings, peaceful atmosphere, and historical depth, Craigmillar Castle is an unforgettable destination. Highly recommend for history lovers and anyone seeking a quieter escape...

We had visited Craigmillar Castle some years ago, bit never brought our kids, now 3 years and 6 years old. We visited on a Sunday morning, managed to park just outside and then headed in to purchase the tickets, which can also be pre-purchased online, we however decided to buy them on arrival. The lady serving us was really helpful and also advised there would be a quiz for the kids as we walked around. When we got to the Castle entrance we were welcomed by two gents who told us a little about the recent developments and what was open, along with giving our eldest her quiz sheet. We then spent about an hour walk around and through the castle. Absolutely fascinating and both kids loved their first ever castle experience, although our youngest was concerned it was pretty ruined 😀 At the end the gent told how they have lots more activities planned for the coming months and suggested we kept an eye on their website. All round a really exciting visit for all of us and definitely recommend it for families even with relatively small children. There are several stairs where I had to carry our youngest, but was no issue for us...