Edinburgh Castle Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Edinburgh Castle dominates the city from its volcanic rock perch, and it has witnessed more drama, bloodshed, and history than almost any other building in Britain. This skip-the-line guided tour takes you past the queues and into the fortress with an expert guide who brings 900 years of Scottish history to vivid life. See the Scottish Crown Jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland, which are older than the English Crown Jewels and were hidden from Oliver Cromwell in a daring smuggling operation. Stand before the Stone of Destiny, the ancient coronation stone returned to Scotland after 700 years in England. Peer down the barrel of Mons Meg, a massive medieval siege cannon, and visit the tiny chapel of St Margaret, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, dating back to the 12th century. Your guide tells the stories of the sieges, escapes, and royal intrigues that shaped Scottish history, all while you enjoy panoramic views over the city, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth. The One O'Clock Gun fires daily (except Sundays) and has made visitors jump since 1861.