You definitely need the audio guide.\n\nNo pictures... well you can take pictures outside, but nothing within. After walking the length of the Royal Mile, we wanted to take a gander at the fancy working palace. There was a long line up at the ticket office, but there is another one inside the gift shop that was shorter. One of the ladies decked out in tartan mentioned it while we were waiting in the longer line.\n\nOnce you pass the gates, grab an audio guide... my husband didn't really listen to his, but without it, you're just staring at a bunch of stuff in someone's house. Lots to hear, lots to see... I didn't know that royals entertained in their bedrooms and didn't actually sleep there. Also, got to learn a lot about Mary, Queen of Scots...\n\nWe were a little jet-laggy, so we thought one of our friend's fell asleep on a chair while we explored the castle. Found him outside in the abbey where photos are allowed. Walked the gardens a bit, but did not do the tour. My hubby instead saw Arthur's Seat and decided he wanted to hike up it. I thought a scone at the cafe was a better idea.
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