Lauriston Castle & Gardens Edinburgh
A 16th-century castle with 19th-century additions, offering preserved interiors, stunning gardens, and panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully
Lauriston Castle & Gardens Edinburgh
Best Time
Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century castle with 19th-century additions, offering preserved interiors, stunning gardens, and panoramic views.
"A truly memorable and enriching experience, highly recommended for history and architecture lovers!"
Book Guided Tours Ahead
Interior tours are popular and have limited spots. Book online to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive grounds and castle. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Castle Interior
Inside the Castle
Step back in time with meticulously preserved rooms, original antiques, and fascinating stories brought to life by knowledgeable guides.
The Gardens
Castle Grounds
Explore the expansive grounds, including a serene Japanese garden, offering beautiful vistas and a peaceful escape from the city.
Views of the Firth of Forth
Castle Grounds
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and Cramond Island from the castle's elevated position.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Embrace the Outdoors and Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours Ahead
Interior tours are popular and have limited spots. Book online to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive grounds and castle. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Japanese Garden
A tranquil spot with ponds and cherry blossoms, perfect for photos and quiet reflection. :camerawithflash:
Combine with a Walk
Easily combined with other walks like Corstorphine Hill or the foreshore. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours Ahead
Interior tours are popular and have limited spots. Book online to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive grounds and castle. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Japanese Garden
A tranquil spot with ponds and cherry blossoms, perfect for photos and quiet reflection. :camerawithflash:
Combine with a Walk
Easily combined with other walks like Corstorphine Hill or the foreshore. :walking:
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens, perfect for a walk with your furry friend. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lauriston Castle for its beautiful, tranquil grounds and the engaging, informative guided tours of its historic interiors. Many highlight it as a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape from the city, with stunning views and a charming on-site bakehouse. Some minor points of concern include occasional wear in the gardens and the need to book tours in advance.
"About to the end of our jetlagged day trip (to keep us awake as long as possible), we stopped at Lauriston. Although it was closed, the grounds were open and fun to explore. Beautiful views, amazing vistas, and lush flora kept our cameras out. It was also quite peaceful, with almost no one there besides our group. It made for a nice last stop before ending our day."
Duane Richards
"Hello everyone here! We had a wonderful walk through very beautiful places, we liked everything very much and especially the front birds and beautiful views and huge trees. The whole territory is very well maintained, like a real royal park."
Dmitriy Molchanov
"I recently visited Lauriston Castle in Edinburgh, and it was a truly delightful experience. The castle's grounds are often described as a hidden gem, featuring beautiful scenery that overlooks the water, and I couldn't agree more. Standing on the lawn behind the castle, I was greeted by a stunning view of the sea and Cramond Island.
There is also a Japanese garden with cherry blossom trees and serene ponds, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the cherry blossoms during the spring season.
Overall, it is an incredible destination with a calm and tranquil atmosphere – a perfect little escape from the city's hustle and bustle."
Shing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lauriston Castle is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes from Princes Street will take you close to the castle, typically a journey of around 30 minutes. It's also a pleasant walk or cycle from nearby areas like Cramond.
Yes, there is parking available at Lauriston Castle, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Lauriston Castle is a great destination for a walk, and its grounds are popular for leisurely strolls and longer hikes.
For a day trip, taking a bus is a convenient and scenic option from the city centre. Alternatively, driving allows for more flexibility.
Yes, if you're on the west side of the city, Lauriston Castle is a good option for an outdoor excursion, along with other nearby parks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The grounds and gardens of Lauriston Castle are generally free to access and explore. However, to enter the castle interior, you'll need to book a guided tour, which requires a ticket.
Ticket prices for guided tours vary. It's best to check the official Lauriston Castle website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
You can explore the beautiful grounds and gardens of Lauriston Castle at any time without a tour. Access to the interior is only available via guided tours.
Yes, Lauriston Castle often hosts special events, including historical tours and even themed nights like murder mystery events. Check their website for current listings. +1
The castle grounds are typically open daily. Interior tour times vary and are usually by guided tour only. Always check the official website for the most accurate opening hours and tour schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour of the castle's preserved interiors, explore the stunning gardens including a Japanese garden, and enjoy panoramic views of the Firth of Forth. +1
Yes, Lauriston Castle offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the castle architecture and interiors to the beautiful gardens and scenic views. 
The gardens are generally beautiful, especially the Japanese garden. While some visitors note occasional wear and tear, they are largely well-kept and offer a lovely space to wander.
Absolutely. The castle grounds provide a tranquil atmosphere and a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, especially during quieter times.
The guided tours are excellent for gaining historical insights. Guides share fascinating stories about the castle's past, its inhabitants, and its architecture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Mimi's Little Bakehouse is located on-site at Lauriston Castle, offering cakes, specialty drinks, ice cream, and baked potatoes.
Mimi's Little Bakehouse serves a selection of cakes and specialty drinks, perfect for a coffee break or a sweet treat while visiting.
The extensive grounds offer plenty of space for picnics. You can bring your own food or grab something from Mimi's Little Bakehouse to enjoy outdoors.
Mimi's Little Bakehouse offers cakes, specialty drinks, Luca's ice cream, and baked potatoes. They also have takeaway options.
While not a formal afternoon tea service, Mimi's Little Bakehouse provides a lovely selection of cakes and drinks in a beautiful setting, offering a delightful treat.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle exterior, the Japanese garden, the grand staircase inside, and the panoramic views over the Firth of Forth are all excellent for photography.
Photography is generally permitted inside the castle during guided tours, but it's always best to check with your guide or look for signage regarding specific restrictions.
Yes, the gardens are particularly stunning in autumn with vibrant fall colors, making it a prime location for seasonal photography.
As with most historical sites and public parks, drone usage is likely restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations and castle policies before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for both interiors and exteriors. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the rooms and gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, and remember comfortable shoes for exploring. The castle's dog-friendly policy also means families can bring their well-behaved canine companions along for the adventure.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Combining a visit to Lauriston Castle with a longer walk along the coast or through nearby parks is a popular option for solo adventurers looking to experience Edinburgh's natural beauty.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a lead where appropriate, especially in more delicate garden areas, and be mindful of other visitors. The on-site bakehouse also offers a nice spot to relax with your dog after a good walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Castle's Evolution
The castle's structure tells a story of changing architectural styles and periods, with layers of history evident throughout. Visitors can explore these transformations on guided tours, which bring the past to life with engaging narratives. Originally built on the site of a 13th-century fortress, the current tower house rose from the ruins after destruction during the Wars of Rough Wooing.
The castle was bequeathed to the Edinburgh Corporation, and today it stands as a testament to Scotland's architectural and social history.
The meticulous preservation of its interiors, filled with original antiques and décor, offers an immersive experience, making visitors feel as though they've stepped back in time. Exploring the Enchanting Gardens
A particular highlight is the serene Japanese garden, complete with cherry blossom trees and tranquil ponds.
While the gardens are a joy to explore, some visitors have noted that certain areas, particularly the Japanese gardens, can occasionally suffer from minor damage due to overuse or vandalism by local youths.
The 'Haunted' Reputation and Local Lore
One of the most frequently mentioned spectral residents is Sophia, a woman believed to have once lived in the castle, who is said to drift through the halls in a silk skirt.
While the 'haunted' aspect adds to the allure, the castle's primary appeal lies in its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful grounds. The guided tours often touch upon the castle's past inhabitants and the stories associated with them, providing a comprehensive historical experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit