Edinburgh Castle History

1757 up to 1814

During this time the castle is used to hold thousands of prisoners of war. The POWs came from several different conflicts over the years, including ; The Seven Years' War (1756-1763), The American War of Independence (1775-1783), the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815).

1796 to 1799

The new Barracks are constructed at the castle, a substantantial structure taking three years to complete, and still standing today.

1811

49 prisoners of war escape from the castle vaults thru a hole in the southern wall. Largely due to this event the castle ceased to be used as a prison from 1814.

1818

The Honours of Scotland are rediscovered by the novelist Sir Walter Scott after he breaks into the old Crown Room. They are put on display for the public at a charge of one shilling.

1822

George IV becomes the first reigning monarch to visit the castle since 1651.

1829

The huge siege cannon Mons Meg is returned to London.

1845

St Margarets chapel is re-established after being used over the previous years as a storehouse.

Written by Shaun Flanagan