Lauriston Castle

The castle grounds are open daily and free to access throughout the year, with hours typically from 08:00 until dusk. Access to the castle interior is by guided tour only, which usually runs at 14:00 on Saturdays and Sundays during the winter, with more frequent daily tours in the summer months. For 2026, tour tickets are approximately eight pounds for adults and six pounds for children. It is advisable to check the official Culture Edinburgh website for the most up-to-date tour times before you travel. Mimi’s Bakehouse operates a popular on-site café located in the old stables, serving award-winning cakes and afternoon teas. While the gardens are mostly accessible, the historic nature of the castle means the upper floors of the interior tour are reached via a narrow spiral staircase.

If you wish to see the historic interiors, you must join a guided tour, as independent wandering inside the castle is not permitted to protect the delicate collections. The tours offer a fascinating look at Edwardian life, so allow about an hour for the experience. The grounds are dog-friendly, making it a favorite spot for local walkers, though pets are not allowed inside the castle or the Japanese garden. For photographers, the Japanese Garden is a highlight, especially when the cherry blossoms or autumn colors are in season. Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths through the woods and down toward the shoreline can be muddy. If you're visiting for tea at Mimi's, be prepared for a short queue on sunny weekends, as it is one of the most popular brunch spots in North Edinburgh.

Lauriston Castle is located at 2 Cramond Road South, about four miles northwest of the city center. It is easily reachable by bus; the Lothian service numbers 16, 27, 29, 37, and 47 all stop within a five-minute walk of the castle gates. If you are staying in the New Town, the number 41 bus also provides a direct link to the nearby Davidson’s Mains area. For those who prefer to drive, there is a free public car park located directly within the castle grounds. Cycling from the city center is also a great option, taking about twenty-five minutes via the scenic Roseburn Path or the coastal cycle routes. If you are walking from the village of Cramond, it is a pleasant uphill stroll of about fifteen minutes through the residential streets and woodland paths.