Craigmillar Castle travel guide

Craigmillar Castle, an impressive ruin set in the rolling landscapes of Edinburgh, has a storied past dating back to the 14th century. Originally constructed by the Preston family around 1400, the castle began life as a simple tower house. Over centuries, it evolved into a sprawling fortress, rich in architectural features.

Craigmillar Castle is perhaps best known for its connection to Mary, Queen of Scots. Seeking refuge after the murder of her secretary, David Rizzio, Mary stayed at the castle in 1566. It's believed she held discussions here about the fate of her second husband, Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley.

The castle remained in the Preston family until the early 17th century, eventually passing to the Gilmour family who made significant additions and renovations. Despite falling into disrepair by the 18th century, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval Scottish history.

Today, visitors can explore Craigmillar Castle’s labyrinthine passageways, grand halls, and picturesque gardens, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

Craigmillar Castle stands out for its remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture, offering a rare glimpse into the past. The curtain wall encircling the central tower house is a distinctive feature, providing an excellent example of defensive medieval structures. Visitors are often intrigued by the 'L' shape of the tower house, a design element that was both practical and defensive.

Another unique aspect is the castle's extensive gardens and orchards, which were once among the most elaborate in Scotland. The 'Queen Mary's Room' is a highlight, reputedly where Mary, Queen of Scots stayed, adding an intriguing historical allure. The panoramic views from the top of the tower offer breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside, making the climb well worth the effort.

The hidden nooks and crannies, including secret chambers and staircases, add an element of mystery and adventure. The dovecot, a cylindrical structure used for housing pigeons, is another rare feature that provides insight into the castle's self-sustaining nature. Overall, Craigmillar Castle's combination of architectural beauty, historical significance, and natural surroundings make it a uniquely compelling destination.

Craigmillar Castle boasts an impressive Yew tree that is believed to be over 500 years old, possibly planted during the castle’s heyday. The castle's walls have witnessed royal intrigues, including Mary, Queen of Scots' refuge following her illness after the birth of James VI. Craigmillar is also known for its 'Laird's Lug,' a hidden listening hole near the Great Hall, allowing eavesdropping on confidential conversations. Remarkably, the castle's dovecot, a structure used for housing pigeons or doves, remains one of the best-preserved examples in Scotland. Additionally, Craigmillar Castle served as a filming location for the 1995 movie 'Braveheart,' adding a touch of cinematic history to its ancient stones.

Located in the dynamic City of Edinburgh, the popular Craigmillar Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Edinburgh or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Scotland.

Edinburgh is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Edinburgh offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Edinburgh and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Royal Mile.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Edinburgh has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Edinburgh, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Scotland!

The best time to explore Craigmillar Castle is during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. During these months, the weather in Edinburgh is typically milder and more pleasant, making it ideal for walking around the castle grounds and enjoying panoramic views of the city. Summer months, particularly June through August, offer the longest daylight hours, providing ample time to fully immerse yourself in the historic ambiance of the castle and its surroundings.

In addition to favorable weather, visiting during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn can mean fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, enhancing your overall experience. Special events, such as historical reenactments or guided tours, often take place during these periods and can provide a richer understanding of the castle's storied past.

To optimize your visit, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons when the castle is generally quieter. This timing allows you to explore at your own pace and capture stunning photographs without the distraction of large groups. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic outing, planning your trip around these considerations will ensure you make the most of your visit to Craigmillar Castle.

Craigmillar Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Edinburgh, Scotland. If you're flying in, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 9.1 miles (14.7 km) away from Edinburgh. From there, you can easily reach Craigmillar Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Edinburgh, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Craigmillar Castle, which is located 2.7 miles (4.3 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Craigmillar Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Craigmillar Castle Rd, Edinburgh EH16 4SY, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Craigmillar Castle!

Conveniently explore Craigmillar Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Edinburgh by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Craigmillar Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Edinburgh has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Craigmillar Castle below.

Aside from Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Edinburgh, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Edinburgh, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Edinburgh Castle is Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Edinburgh is National Museum of Scotland. Like Edinburgh Castle, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 45,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Edinburgh. This park and top attraction in Edinburgh has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Edinburgh below.