The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
ENTRY
Free
WHERE
Edinburgh
What it’s like
A steep set of steps up to a classic postcard view of Edinburgh Castle, free to visit any time of year.
You climb a set of stone steps between the Grassmarket and the Meadows and get one of the best free views of the castle you'll find anywhere in the city. No ticket, no gate, no queue to speak of, just the steps and the view at the top. It's a proper stop rather than a destination in itself, so it suits a short detour on the way to somewhere else more than a whole afternoon out.
There's a bit of grass around the spot that works for a picnic if the weather's playing along, and the open space gives kids room to potter about while you take the obligatory photo. It's outdoors and exposed, so a blustery Edinburgh day will make itself felt.
The catch is the steps themselves. There's no way round them, which means it's not wheelchair-accessible and a buggy is going to be hard work too. If that's a factor for your day, it's worth knowing before you commit to the climb.
It's open year-round and free.
Facilities
Plan your visit
How much does it cost?
Nothing, it's free to visit.
Do we need to book?
No booking, you just turn up.
Is it accessible with a buggy or wheelchair?
It's not wheelchair-accessible, and the steps make it tricky with a buggy too.
Can we bring a picnic?
There's a picnic area, so it works well as a stop with food you've brought yourself.
Is it open all year?
It's open year-round, so there's no season to plan around.
Featured in 2 Huddlepin lists
See all Viewpoints & Picnic Spots in Edinburgh · Things to do in Edinburgh
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