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A group of pupils speak to a HES staff member on the esplanade at Edinburgh Castle

Join us to get hands on with what life was like in a medieval castle, walk in the footsteps of Mary, Queen of Scots or discover more about the running of Scotland's most-visited paid tourist attraction.

Why Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle has been home to prisoners, queens and soldiers, and now welcomes millions of visitors from across the world each year. Its stories span hundreds of years and offer something for learners of all ages and interests.

Join us to get hands on with what life was like in a medieval castle, walk in the footsteps of Mary, Queen of Scots or discover more about the running of Scotland's most-visited paid tourist attraction.

We have a range of tours, trails, crafts and other facilitated activities available for learning groups at our hub sites, including Edinburgh Castle. You can find details on these pages.

Early years

Our learning activities and outreach for early years groups at Edinburgh Castle.

Primary

Our learning activities and outreach for primary school groups at Edinburgh Castle.

Secondary

Our learning activities and outreach for secondary school groups at Edinburgh Castle.

Community groups

Our learning activities and outreach for community groups include tours and crafts, as well as the option to book meeting or activity space at the castle.

Self-led visits

Facilitated visits aren't the only way to explore Scotland's past as a learning group. You may wish instead to book a self-led visit.

Plan a free self-led learning visit