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Self-guided walking tour of Edinburgh's intellectual history

In the 18th century, Edinburgh was a hub of revolutionary ideas. This self-guided walking tour traces the paths where these radical concepts were born and nurtured. Beginning at St Giles' Cathedral in the Old Town, the journey take you to Charlotte Square in the New Town. As you traverse this route, the tour reveals the thinkers, inventors, and visionaries that established Edinburgh as a global epicentre of intellectual life. The entire walk can be comfortably completed in under two hours.

The narrative features influential figures such as David Hume, Adam Smith, Walter Scott, and James Hutton. It also explores the fields they revolutionised, ranging from philosophy and geology to medicine, architecture, and literature. Notably, Scotland's impact on the American Revolution is also highlighted.

This tour is entirely self-guided and powered by GPS technology. Audio plays automatically as you stroll along, requiring no screen-follow or tapping. The system works offline, eliminating any concerns about signal or data usage. You have the freedom to pause, rewind, and progress at your own pace.

Remember to allow some extra time to relax at a cosy cafe or unwind in the gardens at St Andrew's Square.

Main features

Place: Edinburgh
Validity: Flexible
Language:English
Mobile voucher accepted

Additional features

Instant confirmation
Private Tour
Tour with Audioguide
E-Voucher
With audioguide

Why you’ll love this…

  • The tour begins at St Giles' Cathedral and ends at Charlotte Square
  • You'll learn about influential figures like David Hume, Adam Smith, Walter Scott, and James Hutton
  • It delves into Scotland's impact on the American Revolution, adding an international perspective
  • A certified guide narrates the audio tour, enrichening your experience with her expertise
  • This is a GPS-powered tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace without worrying about signal

Important to know

Know in advance:

  • The tour is suitable for participants aged 6 and over
  • Download the audio tour app before you go while on strong WiFi. You'll receive simple instructions by email upon booking
  • Offline functionality via GPS (no data connection needed during tour)
  • Flexible start time (you can pause and resume anytime)
  • This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next
  • Select as many tickets as the number of devices you wish to use. For example, if you book for three people, three people can download this tour onto their smartphones

Remember to bring:

  • Smartphone and headphones required
  • Comfortable walking shoes and weather check recommended

Cancellation policy

Please note that this experience is non-refundable, even if cancelled in advance.


What’s included

  • Audio-guided tour
  • Downloadable APP

What’s not included

  • Individual headset
  • WiFi

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.


Location

St Giles' Cathedral, High Street, Edinburgh, UK

Meeting point:

This self-guided audio tour starts outside St Giles Cathedral. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided by email. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading the app.

Provider

VoiceMap Audio Tours


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Need a hand?

Would you like some help making a booking? Or perhaps you just want to ask a few questions. Whatever the reason, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Opening hours: Our team is available from 10.00 to 18.00 CET

Phone number: +44 121 468 3145