John Knox House

Overview

John Knox House is a historic building located in the Old Town of Edinburgh. It is one of the oldest buildings in the city and is associated with the famous Scottish reformer John Knox, who is said to have lived here.

It is a significant historical site that offers insights into the life and times of John Knox and the Scottish Reformation.

Historical Site Architectural Landmark

Location

Address

43-45 High St., Edinburgh

Neighborhood: Old Town

Coordinates

55.952300, -3.191700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

£10

Children

£6

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April to June

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half-day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Spring flowers in the courtyard
• Historical reenactments

summer

Warm to hot

• Extended opening hours
• Outdoor exhibits

autumn

Cool and crisp

• Fall foliage in the courtyard
• Harvest-themed exhibits

winter

Cold and possibly snowy

• Holiday lights and decorations
• Special holiday exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check the weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Jacket or umbrella Warm clothing in winter

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Minimal, some walking required

• Uneven surfaces and stairs

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards, Debit cards

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Typical Costs

entry £10

guided tour £15

souvenirs £5-£20

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, Sneakers or walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks in advance
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 48 hours in advance for full refund
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

John Knox House Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas and cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Edinburgh Airport

Distance: 13 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes by car

Taxi

£25-£35 30 min

Airport bus (Airlink 100)

£7.50 35 min

From City Center

Distance: 1.5 km

Bus

£1.80 10 min

Walking

Free 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a unique piece of Edinburgh's history and offers a glimpse into the city's past

Historical Significance: Important events related to the Scottish Reformation took place here, and it's associated with one of Scotland's most influential figures, John Knox

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience
The best local food can be found at the small cafes near the entrance
Special exhibits are often available during holidays and festivals

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby cafes for traditional Scottish coffee and pastries
• Ask for the guide John, known for his engaging storytelling

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Bonnie

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Scottish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance and courtyard

Best Time: Golden hour in the early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the medieval architecture and the courtyard's details

Result: Beautiful shots with historic ambiance

#JohnKnoxHouse #EdinburghHistory #MedievalArchitecture

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas and public spaces

prohibited areas Exhibits and private areas

flash photography Not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography Permit required for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Historic Site

St. Giles' Cathedral

Distance: 100m

Walking: 2 min

Type: Religious Site

The Real Mary King's Close

Distance: 150m