Edinburgh Castle: Official Souvenir Guide

by Peter Yeoman

Dominating the city from its volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. This natural stronghold has been occupied for thousands of years, shifting its shape as it was adapted for new uses and against new threats. The castle has long been a royal residence and a focus for national pride - a place of strength where kings and queens could enjoy relative safety in turbulent times, and national treasures could be securely stored. It has been at the heart of Scotland's major events, fought over, held and recaptured time after time. In fact, it is the most besieged place in Great Britain, and remained in military use well into the past century. Over the years Edinburgh Castle has attracted countless visitors with an interest in Scotland's dramatic history. This book invites visitors to explore the castle and learn about its extraordinary history and discover some of its fascinating secrets.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Travel, Scotland, Guidebook

80 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This guide book provides beautiful and interesting photos of Edinburgh Castle, including a very helpful diagram to understand the layout. I could walk myself through my visit and remember exactly how everything was thanks to the pictures and diagram and it made me excited for another visit to see what I missed. It has a breakdown and explanation for each important building plus the history for each and then a general history for the entire castle. Definitely recommend this for anyone who likes to learn more about the important places they visit.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one loses one star in my rating, simply because it felt a little too much like a textbook and wasn't as creative with its information. However, I did learn a lot more beyond what was offered on-site! I particularly enjoyed every reference to James V and Mary de Guise, and Mary Queen of Scots. I also loved the portion dedicated to the Honours of Scotland, which was definitely the highlight of my visit. This book answered some of my questions about the Stone of Destiny, although I'd still like to do more of my own research into the Honours in general since this book's explanation was rather brief.

[Chrissy Shea Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actually read the Guide for Young Visitors. It’s still very detailed and comprehensive but written in a more fun way than most visitor/travel guides. Very interesting, great resource after having toured the castle.

[Sonia Fletcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting read, especially after visiting the castle.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent pictorial guide, with plenty of useful text and timelines for review and remembering..

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting, a good and knowledgeable guide.

[Timo · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great guide to Edinburgh Castle. Should've walk there with this in hand and not read couple years after the last visit there. But great photos and interesting facts.

[Hugh Mulligan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bought during BIE cruise 2025

[Georgi_Lvs_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved! Interesting and a must read for visiting edinburgh castle.