Edinburgh Castle

Here's a tip for anyone visiting Edinburgh in November. I went for my Thanksgiving holiday to Edinburgh for about a week. During this period in Late November is Saint Andrew's day, I'm not sure which day exactly. If you are going to be in this city for this holiday do go to the castle on that day! Everybody gets in for free, meaning that you save 11 pounds (I can buy lunch instead!) and there is absolutely no queue! It was rather crowded but not so much that you couldn't get a good sense of the castle.
This wonderful place is built on a hill and is visible from almost everywhere in Edinburgh, meaning that a visit is necessary. The reverse is also true, I got some great great views from the castle onto the wonderful city, it was rather impressive.
We went on some of the walks explaining some history of the city and castle. There seemed to be a general theme of lost and found. In (this year) the national treasure/mythical weapon was lost due to somebody burying it in the ground to spare it from the raids of the enemies, it was found 200-500 years later by a Scottish gentleman who restored it to the castle.
There are sometimes men walking around in ancient Scottish clothing if you're into that.

Edinburgh castle is the first tourist "must see" that you will see in all brochures about Edinburgh. I personally find it abit pricey (11 pounds) but the castle is really nice and it gives you a nice view on big part of the city. You can spend few hours walking around the castle, checking out exhibitions, prison cells and similar. Similar to Tower of London.

The castle is a must for anybody traveling to Edinburgh. The history goes back to the earliest of settlers who used the summit of the extinct volcano as a strategic lookout post. The castle still has a small but strong regiment of the British Military garrisoned there today.  There are several things to see inside the grounds including the crown jewels, the military museum, and prison.  What surprised me the most was learning about the American prisoners held there during the revolutionary war.  The gift shop is well organized and plentiful but some items are more expensive then what you will find in other stores on the mile. The cafeteria is quick and friendly and has great views of the city. 

Edinburgh Castle was absolutely amazing. From the walls you can see the entire city. I took the audio tour which I found to be very informative. You have the option to explore as much or as little of the castle as you want. Be sure to check out "Mon's Meg" a 14th century cannon fashioned from hand forged iron bands. This place is a must see for anyone traveling to Edinburgh.

Sitting high on the top of the hill overlooking the city and harbor below is this magnificent fortress castle. This is no ruin as most castles are, but is still quite well maintained and used as a military garrison and headquarters for the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the 52 Infantry Brigade. It also serves as a museum for the Royal Scot and Royal Scot Dragoon Guards. You can tell they mean business at this castle. As you stroll up along the walkways modern cannons sit right next to the old cannons overlooking the water. In fact, one of them is named the "One o'clock Gun", because each day at 1 p.m. it is fire as a tradition for sailors. Each August the spectacular performance known as the Edniburgh Military Tatoo takes place here. The interior is well maintained too, with its stained glass and beautifully built rooms. St. Margarets Chapel, the oldest building in the castle was built in the 12th century. It is still used for weddings today, but only 18 people can fit inside at one time. King David I built it and dedicated it to his mother who died in the castle in 1093.
You just cannot go to Edinburgh without seeing this castle.