Castle of Light: Celebrate 900 Years of Edinburgh

Step into a World of Wonder

This festive season Edinburgh Castle transforms into one of Scotland’s biggest light and projection shows, celebrating 900 years of the City of Edinburgh. As soon as you enter the castle esplanade, prepare to be amazed. The castle entrance bursts into life with breathtaking projections, lights and party tunes, setting the stage for a night of pure magic.

Journey Back in Time

Watch as the Portcullis Gate opens, transporting you back through Edinburgh’s 900-year-old story ready to explore the castle grounds. Witness the famous Skating Minister glide across the castle walls to the music of the Boléro down in Hospital Square.

Shining a Light on the Forgotten Women

This year, the show shines a spotlight on the incredible women of Edinburgh, inspired by Sara Sheridan’s book “Where are the Women?“. Illuminating the Lava Wall, you will encounter inspiring figures like Mary Sommerville, Isabella Bird, and Sophia Jex-Blake, whose stories have often been forgotten by history.

Fire Up Your Imagination

For the first time in centuries, you can “fire” Mons Meg! Feel the thrill as you push the big red button and watch the smoke and lights fill the air

Discover Your Inner Edinburgh Icon

Step into the Half Moon Battery and discover our interactive “Who are you?” installation which will scan your face and reveal your Edinburgh doppelgänger.

Who could you be – St Margaret, Sir Walter Scot, or a more recent famous face? Let’s take a closer look and discover some of the fascinating stories behind these iconic Edinburgh figures and their connections to the castle.

Saint Margaret of Scotland

St. Margaret of Scotland was born around the year 1045. She became Queen consort through her marriage to King Malcolm III. Renowned for her piety and charitable works, she significantly contributed to Scotland’s cultural and religious development.

Here at the castle, we are home to St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh. Built by her son, King David I, around 1130, as a memorial to her, the chapel is a significant historical landmark. Throughout history, it has served various purposes, including as a place of worship and a gunpowder store.

Today, you can visit St. Margaret’s Chapel, open to visitors daily. Experience the chapel in a whole new light during the evening Castle of Light event, where stunning projections illuminate its historic walls.

Charles Edward Stuart

Bonnie Prince Charlie, the grandson of King James II of England and VII of Scotland, ignited a spark that nearly reignited the flames of a lost throne. His Jacobite rising of 1745 was a daring attempt to restore the Stuart monarchy.

During this tumultuous period, the charismatic prince and his loyal army marched boldly, capturing the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. However, the Castle, a fortress renowned for its strength and firepower, proved an overwhelming obstacle. Its formidable defences and heavy artillery thwarted the Jacobite advance, leaving the castle unconquered.

Walter Scott

A renowned Scottish novelist, poet, and historian, Walter Scott left a lasting mark on the literary world. His captivating tales, set against the backdrop of Scotland’s rich history, have enthralled readers for generations.

Walter Scott was a passionate advocate for preserving Scotland’s historical heritage. His work breathed life into the nation’s past, inspiring countless readers to delve deeper into Scottish history and culture.

One of Scott’s most significant contributions to Scotland was the rediscovery of the Honours of Scotland in 1818. These priceless artifacts, including the Crown of Scotland, the Sceptre, and the Sword of State, had been hidden away for over a century. Their rediscovery within the walls of Edinburgh Castle sparked national pride and ignited a renewed interest in Scotland’s ancient heritage.

The Honours of Scotland can be viewed today within the palace building in the Crown Room.

Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots

Born in 1542 and crowned Queen of Scots at just six days old, Mary, Queen of Scots, played a pivotal role in Scottish history. Her early years were spent in France, but she returned to Scotland in 1561.

The Castle was a frequent royal residence for Mary. It was within these historic walls that she sought refuge and gave birth to her son, the future James VI, in 1566. Shaken by the recent murder of her secretary, Rizzio, she abandoned the comforts of Holyroodhouse for the security of the castle. The tiny birthing chamber, where she welcomed her son into the world, remains a poignant reminder of this significant moment in Scottish history.

King James VI

Within these very walls, history unfolded. King James VI, future King of England was born here on June 19, 1566. Born to Mary, Queen of Scots, and Lord Darnley, young James spent his formative years here. He was crowned King of Scots at the tender age of just one year old, a momentous event that marked the beginning of his extraordinary reign.

You can visit the royal birthing room where James was born when visiting the castle through the day.

It is in the palace block in Crown Square and is open to visitors of the castle. Find out more about King James IV in our castle blog.

Discover 900 years of Edinburgh’s history, that is full of amazing people and their stories this festive season. Come explore the castle in a whole new light!

Ready to Celebrate Edinburgh’s 900 years?

Experience a magical evening with your friends and family this month! Castle of light runs for a limited time until Saturday 6 January. So book your tickets in advance and spend your festive holidays in style with Castle of Light! Book now at www.CastleOfLight.Scot

There’s nothing we love to see more than everyone enjoying an unforgettable evening at the castle. Be sure to share your photos with us on Facebook, X and Instagram by using the hashtag #CastleOfLight