Admission to Stirling Castle
Entry to the restored Royal Palace, with access to the Great Hall and Chapel Royal.
Scotland’s royal stronghold
Stirling Castle Tickets
Step inside one of Scotland’s most important royal strongholds. Explore restored palace rooms, grand ceremonial spaces, historic exhibitions and sweeping views from the castle walls.
Fast confirmationSecure bookingBest available online price
Tickets & prices
Tickets & Prices
Booking online in advance offers the best value and helps guarantee entry at your preferred time. Tickets may also be available at the entrance, subject to capacity.
Choose Your Ticket
Admission gives you access to Stirling Castle, the restored Royal Palace, Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Great Kitchens and castle exhibitions. Discover the gardens, courtyards and defensive walls at your own pace.
Your visit also includes entry to the on-site regimental museum during its opening hours and a guided castle tour when available.
Why Book Online?
Get the best available ticket price, secure entry before popular time slots sell out, plan your visit in advance and receive your booking confirmation digitally.
| Ticket type | Online price | At the entrance |
|---|---|---|
| Adult, ages 16–64 | £18.50 | £20.50 |
| Concession, ages 65+ | £15.00 | £16.50 |
| Child, ages 7–15 | £11.00 | £12.50 |
| Child under 7 | Free | Free |
| Member | Free | Free |
Ticket prices and availability may change. The latest total will be displayed before payment.
Your admission
What Your Ticket Includes
From historic rooms to open-air viewpoints, your ticket brings together the essential parts of the castle experience.
Entry to the Great Kitchens and castle exhibitions
Entry to the on-site regimental museum during opening hours and a guided castle tour when available.
Access to the gardens, courtyards and defensive walls
Take in the spaces and viewpoints that reveal the castle’s position above Stirling.
Castle highlights
Castle Highlights
Follow the castle’s stories through its most atmospheric spaces, from Renaissance chambers to the walls above the Old Town.
The Royal Palace
Discover richly decorated Renaissance interiors recreated to show how Scotland’s royal court may once have looked. Explore royal chambers, colourful furnishings and detailed craftsmanship throughout the palace.
The Great Hall
Walk into one of Scotland’s most impressive medieval ceremonial halls. Its scale, bright exterior and dramatic interior reflect the power and ambition of the royal court.
The Great Kitchens
See how large royal feasts were prepared. Displays bring the kitchens to life with scenes of cooks, servants, ingredients and dishes created for kings, queens and their guests.
The Stirling Heads and Royal Tapestries
Admire carved oak medallions depicting royal, biblical and classical figures, along with hand-woven tapestries displayed inside the palace.
Castle Walls and Panoramic Views
Enjoy wide views across Stirling, the surrounding countryside and historic royal landscapes from the castle’s elevated position.
Interactive Family Exhibitions
Younger visitors can explore interactive displays about music, crafts, colours, fabrics and life inside a royal palace. Family trails and activity areas make the castle engaging for different age groups.
Opening hours
Opening Hours
Stirling Castle is generally open every day, with longer hours during the summer season.
| Season | Opening hours | Last entry |
|---|---|---|
| Summer season | 9:30 AM–6:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| Winter season | 9:30 AM–5:00 PM | 4:00 PM |
Last admission is normally one hour before closing. Some museums and individual areas may close earlier than the main castle. Opening hours can also change for maintenance, private events or operational reasons.
Recommended: Check availability for your chosen day before travelling.
Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Make the most of your time at this historic hilltop site with a few useful details before you arrive.
How Much Time Should You Allow?
Plan approximately two to three hours to explore the main palace rooms, exhibitions, courtyards and viewpoints. Allow additional time when joining a guided tour, visiting the café or exploring every museum area.
Getting There by Public Transport
The castle stands on a hill above Stirling’s Old Town. It is approximately half a mile from the main train and bus stations, and the walk to the entrance is uphill. Wear comfortable footwear and allow additional walking time when arriving from the city centre.
Parking
Parking beside the castle is reserved for coaches and visitors requiring accessible parking. Other visitors are encouraged to use the local Park & Ride service or public transport. Accessible parking spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accessibility
Stirling Castle is a historic site with cobbled surfaces, slopes and steps. Some major areas have level or adapted access, while other sections may be more difficult to reach. Accessible toilets are available, and a mobility vehicle to the inner courtyard may be provided on request, subject to staff availability. Free admission can be added for accompanying carers when required.
Facilities
Café and refreshmentsToilets and accessible toiletsBaby-changing facilitiesVisitor centreGift shopPicnic areaWater bottle refill pointBicycle racks
Bags and Luggage
Suitcases and large rucksacks with a capacity of 30 litres or more are not permitted. There is no storage facility for luggage, pushchairs or other personal belongings. Bag checks may take place at the entrance.
Before You Go
Book your ticket in advanceArrive before your selected entry timeWear comfortable shoesBring weather-appropriate clothingTravel light and avoid large bagsAllow time for the uphill walk
Visitor reviews
Reviews
From the restored royal rooms to the sweeping views from the castle walls, visitors praise Stirling Castle for its rich history, impressive architecture and engaging exhibitions.
“
I booked my tickets online, and the whole process was quick and straightforward. The Royal Palace was beautifully restored, and every room had something interesting to discover. I especially enjoyed the views from the castle walls. It was one of the highlights of my trip to Scotland.
Emily R.
Visited the Royal Palace
“
I was impressed by how much there was to explore inside the castle. The Great Hall and the palace rooms really helped me imagine what royal life was like centuries ago. The exhibitions were informative without feeling overwhelming. I would recommend allowing at least a few hours for the visit.
Daniel M.
History enthusiast
“
I visited with my family, and there was something for everyone to enjoy. The interactive displays kept the children interested, while I loved learning about the castle’s royal history. The staff were welcoming and helpful throughout our visit. We all left feeling that the experience was well worth it.
Sophie T.
Family visit
“
The location of Stirling Castle is spectacular. I loved walking through the historic buildings and then stepping outside to see the panoramic views. The castle felt spacious, well maintained and full of fascinating details. Booking in advance made the visit easy and stress-free.
James L.
Weekend visitor
“
The guided tour added so much context to what I was seeing. I learned about the castle’s architecture, royal residents and role in Scottish history. After the tour, I had plenty of time to explore the palace and exhibitions independently. It was an engaging and memorable experience from start to finish.
Olivia B.
Guided tour guest
“
Stirling Castle exceeded my expectations. The recreated interiors were colourful and detailed, and the Great Kitchens were particularly interesting. I also appreciated the clear visitor information throughout the site. It is an excellent choice for anyone interested in Scottish history and architecture.
Michael C.
First-time visitorFAQ
FAQ
Everything you need to know before arriving at Stirling Castle.
What is included with a Stirling Castle ticket?
A standard admission ticket includes access to the main castle complex, the Royal Palace, Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Great Kitchens, exhibitions, courtyards, gardens and defensive areas. Entry to the on-site regimental museum is also available during its operating hours.
Should I book Stirling Castle tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended. It provides the best available price and helps guarantee entry, particularly during busy periods.
Can I buy tickets at the entrance?
Tickets may be available at the entrance, but they usually cost more than online tickets and admission is subject to remaining capacity.
Are guided tours included?
Guided tours are included with castle admission when available. Tour schedules may vary, so visitors should check the arrangements after entering the castle.
Is an audio guide available?
An optional audio guide may be purchased separately. It can be accessed using a compatible mobile device with an internet connection.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors should allow around two to three hours. A longer visit may be needed when joining a tour, exploring every exhibition or stopping at the café.
Do children need a ticket?
Children aged 7–15 require a child ticket. Children under 7 can enter free of charge but may still need to be included in the booking.
Is Stirling Castle accessible?
Many important areas offer accessible or adapted access, but the castle contains cobbles, gradients, steps and historic surfaces. Visitors with limited mobility should review access information before arriving.
Is parking available at the castle?
Parking beside the castle is limited to coaches and visitors requiring accessible parking. Other visitors should use public transport, nearby city parking or the Park & Ride service.
Can I bring a suitcase or large backpack?
Suitcases and rucksacks with a capacity of 30 litres or more are not allowed. The castle does not provide luggage storage.
Are dogs allowed inside Stirling Castle?
Only assistance dogs are permitted within the castle and its roofed areas. Other pets are not allowed.