Edinburgh Castle reopens after longest closure period since World War Two

Guide Mhairi Summers and Pipe Major Stevie Small and Drum Major Mick Hay open the iconic doors to Edinburgh Castle as the famous fortress welcomes visitors for the first time since closing in March.

Edinburgh Castle has reopened to the public after its longest period of closure since World War Two – but the Scottish Crown Jewels remain off limits.

The historic capital fortress, along with Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle by Loch Ness, lowered their drawbridges to hundreds of visitors over the weekend.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES)’s three most popular ticketed sites are the first to reopen since the March 18 following outbreak of COVID-19.

A further 23 paid for sites are due to reopen on a rolling basis between now and mid-September.

The trio of fortresses feature new safety measures including reduced capacities, one way systems and restricted access to small enclosed spaces.

Tickets can only be booked in advance, while cash payments will not be accepted for the foreseeable future, and visitors are asked to use contactless payment where possible.

At Edinburgh Castle, visitors are now able to enjoy outdoor spaces, see the firing of the One-O’clock Gun and explore historic rooms including St Margaret’s Chapel, War Memorial and the Great Hall where Mary, Queen of Scots hosted lavish banquets.

But they will not yet be able to view the Scottish Crown Jewels or Stone of Destiny, as the Crown Room in the Royal Palace remains closed.Scotland’s priceless Crown Jewels, comprising the crown, sceptre and sword of state are the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, and a huge draw for the castle, which attracted more than 2.2 million visitors last year.

At Stirling Castle, visitors can access outdoor spaces including the Queen Anne Gardens as well as the historic Chapel Royal and the largest Great Hall of its kind in Scotland, dating back to 1503. Part of Grant Tower at Urquhart Castle will also be opened.

HES has said further indoor spaces will open at all three castles by the end of this month, depending on Scottish Government guidance.

Chief Executive Alex Paterson said: “Edinburgh Castle is an internationally renowned symbol of Scotland, and its reopening is an important milestone not only for our organisation, but for the country as a whole as we continue on our journey to recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It has taken a significant amount of planning to reach this point, and I’m very proud of the efforts of all of our staff who have been instrumental in making these sites ready to safely welcome visitors once again.

“I’d also like to thank visitors for their patience throughout this period of uncertainty, and offer reassurance that the safety and quality of their visitor experience has been at the forefront of our preparations.

“The tourism sector will be central to Scotland’s national recovery, and our historic attractions are a key part of that tourism offering.”Visitor numbers will be limited for safety reasons.