Explorer Pass FAQs

Where can I visit with an Explorer Pass?

The pass includes entry to ticketed Historic Scotland sites, including Edinburgh, Stirling, and Urquhart Castles.

There are a few exceptions: Calanais Vistor Centre and Kinnaird Head Lighthouse are operated by private trusts.

A ticket for The Palace of Holyroodhouse is required for access to the ruins of Holyrood Abbey. 

The pass does not cover any attractions operated by organisations other than Historic Scotland, such as National trust for Scotland or the Historic House Association.

Where can I buy my pass? Do I have to book in advance? 

We strongly recommend purchasing online in advance to avoid disappointment. You may be available to purchase a pass at the first property you visit, but availability is not guaranteed.

Buy a pass here

When can I visit?

Explorer Pass holders can visit within regular opening hours. We strongly recommend pre-booking your visit in advance to guarantee entry. You can do this by following the links on our individual property webpages and selecting tickets within the Explore Pass category.

Can I visit the sites more than once?

To ensure that we manage our capacities on site, Explorer Pass holders can visit each site once within the validity period. Multiple sites can be visited in the same day.

What online payment methods are accepted? 

We accept Visa, Visa Debit, Mastercard, Diners, Discover and American Express.

Can I buy an Explorer Pass on site? 

You may be able to purchase an Explorer Pass at the first property you visit, but availability is not guaranteed. We strongly recommend purchasing online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Buy a pass here

Can I book over the phone? 

We do not have the facilities to process payments over the phone. If you experience issues booking online, please contact the ticketing team. 

What is a concession? 

All visitors aged 65+, full-time students and UK visitors who are unemployed are eligible for concession Explorer Passes. You will be asked to show proof of eligibility on arrival. 

Is there a student discount? 

Yes, full-time students are eligible for the Explorer Pass concession category. 

How will I receive my pass? 

Your Explorer Pass will be attached in your email confirmation in a PDF document. You can print your passes or you can show them on a mobile device. You can also opt to collect your Explorer Pass on arrival using the reference number in your confirmation email.

Your email confirmation email should arrive shortly after booking. If it has not arrived, please check your junk folder in the first instance. If the email is not there, please contact the ticketing team including the name on the booking and the email address used.

I have deleted my email confirmation, can I get it resent? 

Please contact the ticketing team and include the name on the booking and the email address used.

How do I book my visits?

Explorer Pass visits can be booked online at historicenvironment.scot/visit. Find the site you wish to visit, then choose ‘Standard Admissions, Member and Explorer Pass Tickets’.

I have a family Explorer Pass. Do I need a reservation ticket for each family member?

Yes, please book the correct number of tickets to match the number of people covered by your pass.

I require a helper/carer to assist me, are they free of charge?

In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry, visitors with disabilities are treated on an equal basis with all other visitors and entry is charged at the appropriate rate. Proof of disability is not required.

We offer free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. You can book a free carer ticket through our website. Alternatively, contact the ticketing team  and quote your order number.

How do I get my audio guide discount?

Explorer Pass holders receive a 20% discount on our audio tours at Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Glasgow Cathedral. You will need to collect and pay for your audio guides upon arrival at the site. They can't be booked online.

You can find opening times, directions, facilities and other information to help you plan your visits on our individual site pages. Answers to common questions about visiting our sites are also available in our Visitor FAQs. Our "Things to see and do section" offers itineraries and inspiration.

Browse places to visit

Visitor FAQs

Things to see and so

If I am unable to use my pass, can I get a refund?

All tickets purchased are non-refundable as per our terms and conditions. However, if there is availability for different dates, then we can alter your existing booking. Please fill out our refund request form.

Refund request form 

I have booked my Explore Pass start date for the wrong day – can I transfer to another date? 

If we have availability then yes, we can alter the date of your Explorer Pass, Please contact ticketing@hes.scot with your booking confirmation number.

What will happen if the weather is bad? 

In the event of severe weather such as strong winds or snow, we may need to close our sites. We recommend that you check our website on the day of your visit, especially if severe weather is forecast. Customers who have pre-booked admission will be contacted via text or email with details on how to rebook or claim a refund. If you have not been contacted within 48 hours please contact the ticketing team. 

Can I visit the sites more than once?

To ensure that we manage our capacities on site, Explorer Pass holders can visit each site once within the validity period. Multiple sites can be visited in the same day.

What if I lose my pass?

Please contact the ticketing team.