Trains to Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a historic landmark that people from around the world want to see in person. Make your trip to Edinburgh Castle unforgettable with a train journey on Avanti West Coast train.

How to get to Edinburgh Castle by train

Edinburgh Castle’s closest station is Waverley Station, right in the heart of the city. The Castle is visible once you leave the station up on the hill. From Waverley station, walk along Market Street until you reach Ramsey Lane. From there, you will approach Castlehill and walk up to the Castle.

What to do at Edinburgh Castle

There is plenty to do, whether you go independently or follow a set itinerary. Take a tour, find your way around the castle highlights, or have a meal. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to stay well entertained during your time at Edinburgh Castle.

Some highlights you may want to see at the Castle include the Great Hall, the Royal Palace, the Stone of Destiny, or the Queen’s Embroideries. The Great Hall was built in 1511 for King James IV. It is located in the Crown Square part of the Castle and has a history of banquets and events fit for royalty. Also in Crown Square, the Royal Palace was home to kings and queens for many years throughout Scotland’s turbulent history. Visitors can also see the royal apartments when visiting the Palace.

The Stone of Destiny was used for hundreds of years to inaugurate kings of Scotland. While its origins are a mystery, it is still sacred and is in the Crown Square with the Crown Jewels. The Queen’s Embroideries are a replica of embroideries that Mary Queen of Scots made when she got exiled in England. There are 37 needlework pictures displayed in the ante-chamber of the Royal apartments which are also worth a look.

You can get support on your journey through the Castle on a guided tour or with an itinerary, and learn about the different corners of the Castle as part of a one or two hour tour. On these guided tours, you can choose the route that stops at the attractions you are most interested in seeing, so you don’t have to worry about missing out. The Morning Route, Royal Route, and Military March are only some of the cultured experiences you can enjoy.

After exploring the Castle all day, you are sure to be hungry. Edinburgh Castle lets you choose between a light snack and a full meal during your time there. At the top of the Castle, the Tea Rooms provide an elegant space to enjoy afternoon tea. Have a snack that makes you feel like royalty, or enjoy craft beers, whiskies, wines, or spirits. At the Redcoat Café, you can have a hearty lunch or a quick snack. The seasonal menu offers soups, sandwiches, and other bites.

Getting to Edinburgh Castle

A train ride to Edinburgh is an amazing day out no matter where you head once you get off. From London Euston, Manchester or Birmingham you can get up to Edinburgh using Avanti West Coast trains.

The views from the trains are amazing and you'll be able to fully experience the magic of Edinburgh.

Getting to Edinburgh >

Edinburgh at a glance

  • Accessible Public Telephones

    Available in part on the main concourse during Station Opening times

  • Accessible Taxis

    Taxi ranks are located on Waverley Bridge and also Market Street. Market Street can be accessed step free via available lifts.

  • Accessible Ticket Machines

    All Virgin Trains East Coast machines are DDA compliant in the Travel Centre

  • Customer Help Points

    There is a Customer Information Point in the Main Concourse opposite the main departure boards.

  • Impaired Mobility Set Down

    A drop off area is located at Calton Road, an assistance call point is located beside the lift.

    Assistance is available to and from platforms, please call in advance to use this service. Please contact customer services of the relevant train operator:

    • LNER - 03457 225 333
    • Avanti West Coast - 03453280253
    • ScotRail - 0845 6015 929
  • Induction Loop
    Yes
  • National Key Toilets

    At entrance to Public Toilets

  • Ramp For Train Access
    Yes
  • Staff Help Available

    Monday to Friday – 04:00 to 00:45
    Saturday – 04:00 to 00:45
    Sunday – 06:00 to 00:45

    Assistance is available from welcome hosts, the travel centre, and the mobility assistance office as well as the customer information point in the main concourse.

    The Mobility Assistance Room is located opposite platform 4.

  • Step Free Access

    There is step free access to all parts of the station with lifts and escalators giving access to the platforms

  • Wheelchairs Available
    Yes
  • This station does not offer

    Height Adjusted Ticket Office Counter

  • Buying / collecting tickets
  • Getting to / from the station
  • Station Facilities