Craigmillar Castle
A well-preserved medieval castle ruin on the southeast edge of Edinburgh, where Mary, Queen of Scots once rested.
About 5 kilometres southeast of the city centre, this castle is known as 'Edinburgh's other castle'. Its 14th-century tower and the later curtain walls and courtyards are well preserved. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower freely and look out over Arthur's Seat and the city, with far fewer visitors than Edinburgh Castle. In 1566 Mary, Queen of Scots stayed here to recuperate, and nobles plotted here to assassinate her husband, Lord Darnley. The castle is managed by Historic Environment Scotland, and tickets cost about £10. It also served as a filming location for Outlaw King. From the city centre, take a bus for about 25 minutes, then walk.
Opening hours
About 09:30–17:30 (until 16:30 in winter; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Arthur's Seat
- Portobello Beach
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Our Dynamic Earth
- Scottish Parliament Building
- Calton Hill
- Royal Mile
- National Museum of Scotland