Best Western Hotels GB | Edinburgh Castle Hotels

The iconic grey-stone building standing on top of Castle Rock (an extinct volcano towering over the scattered outskirts of the city) is an impressive sight to behold. Choose a hotel near Edinburgh Castle and have a spine-tingling wander around the forboding landmark.

Things to do at Edinburgh Castle

The statues of two of Scotland’s greatest heroes, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, stand imposingly beyond the Entrance Gateway, beckoning you inside. The impressive fortress now houses the famous Scottish Crown Jewels, some of the most gorgeous ornaments on display in the United Kingdom. St Margaret’s Chapel sits on top of the same volcanic rock. There is a feeling of magic about the landmark; it is the oldest building in the city.

Edinburgh Castle visitor tips

More than 1 million people visited the castle last year. If you don’t fancy spending your time in queues and waiting in lines, book online beforehand for fast-track entry, or head to your attraction of choice first thing in the morning. There are certain times of year that are particularly splendid times to book a hotel near Edinburgh Castle. Something certainly worth keeping in mind is that often there’s free entry on St Andrews’ Day. In August, the giant Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an impressive show, bursting to the brim with military displays, cultural cooperation, music and plenty of fireworks. The other prime time to book accommodation is towards the end of December. Edinburgh Castle now acts as the centre for the largest New Year street party in the world. The celebrations for Hogmanay are internationally renowned for their enthusiasm and excitement.

Things to do around Edinburgh Castle

For an astonishing and memorable panoramic view of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, head to the Victorian Camera Obscura. A rotating periscope is available for tourists, giving you a 360-degree scoop of Scotland’s wonderful capital. There are numerous castle and city tours, ranging from the comic to the historic. Head to Parliament House, now open to the public, to see barristers pacing, conversing and discussing - a humbling and remarkable place. The National Museum of Scotland should be explored with at least an afternoon in hand. See the host of exhibits ranging from ancient fossils, demonstrating the earliest forms of Earth’s life, to modern history, such as microchips and aircrafts. The impressive collection spans our planet’s existence for millions of years.

Eat, Drink and Shop and Edinburgh Castle

Book a hotel near Edinburgh castle and you are slap-bang in the middle of everything. High-street snobs and aspiring fashionistas should head straight to Bruntsfield, an area dedicated to specialist boutiques and stores. Classy George Street is another place to head if tight purse strings are not an issue. If it’s souvenirs you’re after, head straight to the Royal Mile, the city’s feeding ground for travellers and tourists. While visiting the capital, sampling Scotland’s best-known dish is simply a must. Broadie’s Tavern on Grassmarket serves the infamous haggis in a homemade hoagie bun. Have a wander around the magical grounds of Edinburgh University and enjoy any sunny days you spend there by picnicking in the cherry-tree-lined Meadows. Book a Best Western hotel near Edinburgh castle and experience one of the world’s most magical cities first hand. Edinburgh is a magnificent UK city break.