The public galleries of the museum are currently closed for redevelopment. The Museum will reopen early 2000.

	Castle from West End Princes Street © 1998-04 Firstcity Publications

Situated high on an extinct volcanic outcrop, Edinburgh castle dominates the city skyline. This evocative historic structure has an engaging history spanning 3,000 years and was residence to many Scottish Kings and Queens.

Every occupant modified or added to the original structure, so that today it is a rich architectural mixture of palace, fortress, barracks, chapel and war memorial. It is also home of the Scottish Crown Jewels (the oldest regalia in Britain). The Jewels had been lost for two hundered years until they were found deep within the castle in an old chest by the Scottish author Walter Scott who wished to welcome the then King George IV in style. The castle is also now home to the Stone of Destiny which was recently returned from England.

	Castle Outcrop from Princes Street Gardens © 1998-04 Firstcity Publications

There are many more sights to be seen including the giant siege gun Mons Meg and the room where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI & I the first ruler of Scotland and England before being beheaded on her cousin Elisabeth the First's order.

Admission : £5.50
Open : Mon.-sun 9.30am-6.00pm
(April - Sept.)
Mon.-sun 9.30am-5.00pm
(October-March)
Car & coach parking, audio tour, toilets, self & table service restaurants, disabled toilets. MAP