Craigmillar Castle

Step inside Edinburgh’s ‘other castle’, which stood a mile outside the old city walls, providing a retreat from Scotland’s capital. Craigmillar Castle was close to the political cauldron of Edinburgh, but pleasingly separate from it. Mary Queen of Scots famously used the castle as a safe haven in 1566. Ironically, its owner, Sir Simon Preston, a loyal supporter of Mary, would turn her jailer just a year later. Today, visitors can climb the tower house, one of Scotland’s oldest, which houses fascinating features like a fine great hall and a prison. You can admire the views from the tower across Edinburgh and beyond, spotting Holyrood Park and Edinburgh Castle among other landmarks. As you explore Craigmillar’s many nooks and crannies, look our for the remains of the fishpond in the grounds which is laid out in the shape of a letter P, for Preston. Film and TV fans can follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters - the castle has appeared in Outlander and Outlaw King . The great hall at Craigmillar Castle is a stunning wedding venue steeped in history, all within easy reach of Edinburgh city centre. Use a Membership or Explorer Pass to discover centuries of Scottish history and heritage, all while saving money and supporting our work.