Hotels near Craigmillar Castle Park

Craigmillar Castle is the castle Edinburgh visitors skip, which is precisely why it works in October. The late 14th-century tower house is among the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland, Mary Queen of Scots stayed here in 1566 while her supporters plotted the fate of Lord Darnley, and you can climb the tower and walk the wall heads without queueing behind anyone. Historic Environment Scotland runs the site and charges admission.

The surrounding Craigmillar Castle Park is why it belongs on an autumn list. Oak and elm woodland drops in golden drifts around the ruins, and weathered grey stone against that foliage is the best contrast in the city on a clear October afternoon. The park itself is free and stays open beyond castle hours, so the walk works even if you arrive too late for the tower.

Pro Tip: Walk up through the park from Craigmillar Castle Road instead of driving to the car park. The approach through the trees is where the ruins look best, and Lothian Buses route 14 links the site to Holyrood Park in about 20 minutes.