Royal Mile
Experience and take part in over 100 illusions and step outside onto the Rooftop Terrace, for 360⁰ views of Edinburgh. Five floors of interactive hands-on optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including vortex tunnel, mirror maze and shrinking room. VisitScotland 5-star rated and Good to Go certified. Great fun for all ages.
Castlehill
Royal Mile
Edinburgh
EH1 2ND
0131 226 3709
10am-7pm, 7 days a week.
Extended opening hours apply during school holidays, please check website for details.
Situated right at the top of the Royal Mile on Castlehill, just before Edinburgh Castle. An easy walk for all the family.
By Foot
Camera Obscura is in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, so stroll up the Royal Mile, Ramsay Lane or Johnston Terrace while enjoying some of the city’s most famous sights. The entrance is right at the top on the right-hand side, just before the castle.
By Bike
The nearest bike parking is at West Parliament Square, near the National Library of Scotland on George IV Bridge and in the Grassmarket. These and more options can be found on Open Street Map. Bike parking is shown with a small blue square.
By Train
The nearest station is Edinburgh Waverley, 10 minutes’ walk away.
You can get the most up-to-date train times and tickets from The Trainline.
By Bus or Tram
Buses to and from all directions stop on George IV Bridge, three minutes’ walk away. Hop on bus numbers 23, 27 41, 42 and 67.
Bus stops on North Bridge and Nicolson Street are ten minutes’ walk away.
Visit lothianbuses.com and edinburghtour.com for more information.
By Car
There’s no parking on the Royal Mile. The nearest car parks are:
Castle Terrace NCP – Camera Obscura visitors can receive a discount parking ticket which gives up to 5 hours parking for £10.00 (regular cost £19.50. If over 5 hours discount does not apply). Please ask the team on arrival for your discount ticket. Postcode EH1 2EW (this car park is approximately 10 minutes’ walk away, please check up to date prices and find a location map here).
QPark Quartermile – is a 10 minute walk from Camera Obscura. Find out more here. Use postcode EH3 9GF.
Parking charges apply.
By Taxi
Most of the time, you will be dropped off right outside the front door.
This street is occasionally closed for events at the castle. If this is the case, you will be dropped off on the Royal Mile at the bottom of Castlehill, two minutes’ walk away.
Its important you plan ahead when visiting any establishment or open space and to check on any changes that have been brought about by COVID-19. Measures such as social distancing have changed the way business operate and you may need to book ahead or wear facemasks.