Castle of Light returns for its sixth year in 2025, transforming Edinburgh Castle's walls, buildings and ramparts with projected light and sound. The 60-minute historical walking tour, runs over six weeks during the Christmas season, this year with fire an ice theme.
A team of local designers with long-time experience working with light and the moving image have created a show that draws on the history, geology, mythology and drama of the castle to "excite, entertain and enlighten".
Edinburgh Castle has been used before for projected light shows - the Edinburgh Military Tattoo uses light projection as part of its show and the opening event of Edinburgh International Festival in 2016 was a mesmerising light show Deep Time, projected on the outer castle and castle rock.
But this is the first "immersive" walking tour that uses light projection and storytelling to delve into Edinburgh Castle's history.
Rex, the lion rampant, will be there to guide families and unravel the mysteries of the castle, including background to The Honours of Scotland (also known as the Crown Jewels).
The Royal Botanic Garden also holds an illuminated, winter walking tour called Christmas at the Botanics over the same period.
The Castle of Light Consortium partners are War Productions Limited, Double Take Productions, NL Productions, and Andy McGregor.
Edinburgh Castle is Scotland's most popular paid visitor attraction. It is maintained by government heritage agency, Historic Scotland.
Castle of Light 2025 dates
21-22, 28-29 November; 5-7, 12-14, 19-23, 27-30 December; 2-4 January
4.30pm to 9pm (last entry between 7.30pm and 7.45pm)
Castle of Light 2025 Tickets
Early bird tickets booked before midnight 30 Sept
Tickets are available online from the dedicated Castle of Light website.
Standard tickets
- Adult (16-64yrs): £24
- Concessions (65yrs+): £19
- Child (7-15yrs - must be accompanied by an adult aged 16+): £15
Family tickets
- 1 adult & 2 children: £48.50
- 2 adults & 2 children: £70
- 2 adults & 3 children: £84
Discounts available for Historic Scotland Members