The castle itself can be visited as part of guided tours, which take place at varying times depending on the season and the day. The Edwardian interior of the historic house looks just as it would have in 1926, when the Reid family bequeathed it to the Scottish nation. It’s full of period furniture from all around Europe, Blue John ornaments, and personal artifacts, including a newspaper reporting the Titanic sinking and a walking stick belonging to a previous resident.
The castle grounds are open to all visitors and serve as a public park. Guests can stroll the grounds at their leisure, admire views of the Firth of Forth, and soak up the tranquility of the Japanese garden.
Lauriston Castle makes for a great day trip destination, offering the chance to leave the city and the modern era behind.
On warm days, pack a picnic and eat it amid the picturesque park grounds.
Most of the castle is not accessible to wheelchair users.
Lauriston Castle is situated about 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) northwest of Edinburgh city center, between Davidson’s Mains and Cramond. From Waverley railway station, take the 29, 41, or 37 buses. Services 29 and 41 stop at Davidson’s Mains, and the 37 stops at Silverknowes bus terminus; both are about a 10-minute walk from the castle.
The best time to visit is during summer, when warmer weather allows for picnics and walks in the garden. Guided tours take place every day except Friday from April through October, and on Saturdays and Sundays only from November through March.
Lauriston Castle hosts a year-round program of events, including lectures, workshops, and performances. From film screenings and theater productions to ghost-hunting sessions and sketching classes, there is almost always something special happening here. Family-friendly seasonal events, such as Easter egg hunts and Edwardian-style Christmas shows, are also held here.
