This walking tour is the perfect introduction to Scotland’s capital. The first secret you’ll learn? That you can skip the line at Edinburgh Castle.

Step into Edinburgh’s secrets and discover the heart of Scotland’s capital, beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks. A beautiful city steeped in awe-inspiring history that has been perfectly preserved in the wynds, closes, courtyards and homes of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Take a journey through time, feel the cobblestones beneath your feet as you explore the lives of Edinburgh residents from generations past – from historical figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns, to the everyday folk who for their entire lives never left the city’s walls.

With every step along The Royal Mile, echoes of the past surround you — stories of royalty, rebellion, crime and culture brought vividly to life by our masterful storytellers, and historic landmarks that still stand today.

Why you’ll love this…

Thsi walking tour will show you another side of the capital
Audio guides and live storyteller will help you to get immersed in the past, lost in the stories
A small group experience with a local storyteller for a more personalized experience

Important to know

This tour is suitable for children aged 5+, but please note that babies and strollers are not permitted
Please arrive at the meeting point (Mercat Cross, Royal Mile, EH1 1RF) at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your tour to allow time to check in
Concession tickets apply to seniors (aged 65+) and students (aged 18+) with a valid student ID
Your tour will be conducted by a live, English-speaking guide (no other language options available)
Please bring your own set of 3.5 mm jack headphones (where possible) for use with the TourTalk devices, otherwise these can be provided for you
Please note anyone who appears to be under the influence of alcohol will not be permitted to join the tour
This tour runs in all weather conditions, please dress accordingly to the weather. Sensible walking shoes are advised
Please note only service dogs are welcome on this tour, no other pets
The maximum number of participants is 18 people
Tour ends: Edinburgh Castle esplanade, Castlehill, EH1 2NG
This tour is wheelchair accessible
Suitcases and large rucksacks are not permitted on the tour

Location

Mercat Cross, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, United Kingdom

Meeting point:

The Mercat Cross is an 8 sided monument situated on The Royal Mile. Please arrive at the meeting point Mercat Cross, Royal Mile, at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your tour to allow time to check in.