Description

For anyone keen to truly experience Edinburgh, this walking tour is the perfect introduction to the city’s rich history and vibrant character. Since 1985, visitors have been guided through the heart of Scotland’s capital, discovering secrets that lie beyond the reach of tour buses and standard guidebooks. The adventure begins on the Royal Mile, where you can skip the queue at Edinburgh Castle and step straight into centuries of stories.

Wander through the wynds, closes, courtyards and historic homes of the Old Town, where the city’s past is preserved in every stone. As you walk, you will feel the cobblestones beneath your feet and imagine the lives of Edinburgh’s residents from generations gone by, from renowned figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns to the everyday folk who rarely ventured beyond the city walls.

Each step along the Royal Mile is accompanied by echoes of the past, with tales of royalty, rebellion, crime and culture brought to life by skilled storytellers, and historic landmarks that still stand today.

The tour includes a guided walk into Edinburgh Castle itself, perched high on its ancient volcanic rock. The castle has witnessed battles, sieges, royal intrigue and countless generations inspired by its presence. With your guide, you will cross the drawbridge and bypass the ticket line, allowing you to continue your journey into Edinburgh’s history without interruption.

The full Secrets of Edinburgh's Royal Mile tour, which includes a forty-five minute introduction to Edinburgh Castle, lasts two hours and fifteen minutes. Afterwards, it is recommended to allow an additional one and a half to two hours to explore the rest of the castle at your own pace. If you prefer, you can join the ninety-minute walking tour without the castle visit, as there is plenty of history to discover in the Old Town alone. Holders of a Historic Environment Scotland Explorer Pass are welcome to join, including the guided castle tour, by simply calling to confirm after booking.

This tour explores the upper half of the Royal Mile. For those interested in the Canongate and the majestic Palace of Holyroodhouse, there is also a Treasures of the Old Town tour available.

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