Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Edinburgh.

Monday to Thursday

09:30–19:30Friday 09:30–21:00; Saturday 09:00–21:30; Sunday 09:30–20:00

19 to 31 December

Longer holiday hours24 December 09:00–19:00; 26 December 10:00–21:30; 27–30 December 08:30–21:30; 31 December 08:30–21:00

Closed

25 DecemberHours for 1 January are not yet published

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the attraction

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is at the top of the Royal Mile, on the right-hand side of Castlehill just before Edinburgh Castle.

• On foot: Edinburgh Waverley station is about 10 minutes away, buses 9, 23 and 27 stop on George IV Bridge three minutes away, and the Princes Street tram stop is seven minutes away via The Mound.
• By car: there is no parking on the Royal Mile; Castle Terrace and Quartermile car parks are about 10 minutes’ walk away.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Toilets and baby changing on floors 1 and 4.
• A water refill station on floor 4.
• A Quiet Space on floor 4.
• Cafés and restaurants along the Royal Mile nearby.

Allow about an hour and three quarters, and wear comfortable shoes: there are just under 100 steps to the top. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

The listed building has no lift: there are two steps at the entrance and just under 100 steps to the top, and wheelchairs cannot go round the narrow exhibition floors (they can be left in the foyer). Some exhibits use flashing lights, darkness and optical distortion; the Mirror Maze and the Vortex Tunnel can be bypassed. Assistance dogs are welcome.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask Camera Obscura staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the illusions thoughtfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• Take care on the stairs and in the darker rooms, and leave pushchairs in the admissions area; baby carriers can be borrowed free of charge.
• Smoking and animals are not permitted on the site.
• Commercial photography and filming, including product promotion, need permission.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care keeps the exhibits working and the floors pleasant for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Royal Mile and the streets around Castlehill have cafés and restaurants for a meal before or after your visit.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

A water refill station is on floor 4, so bring a bottle.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: go to 549 Castlehill, just below Edinburgh Castle, and follow your ticket’s instructions.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes for the stairs, a layer for the rooftop and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow time for the rooftop show and the views from the terrace.