Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Overview
Explore centuries of drama and intrigue on this self-guided walking tour along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where you'll uncover the stories of royals, rogues, and reformers that shaped the city’s history. Starting at Edinburgh Castle’s esplanade, the tour takes you through the Royal Mile’s four sections—Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, and Canongate—down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you’ll encounter landmarks tied to figures like John Knox and Robert Fergusson, and hear about the city's haunted alleyways, notorious figures like William Brodie, and the darker side of Edinburgh’s past. Ending near the Scottish Parliament Building, this tour offers a deeper understanding of Edinburgh’s royal and rebellious history.
What's included
Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones (please bring your own)
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
What to expect
Edinburgh Castle
Pass by
This iconic fortress perched on Castle Rock offers panoramic views and has been a symbol of Scottish power and defense for centuries.
Castello Di Edimburgo
Pass by
The vast parade ground leading to the castle, the Esplanade hosts the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo every summer.
Castlehill
Pass by
The uppermost section of the Royal Mile, Castlehill connects the castle with the historic Old Town and offers insights into medieval life.
Witches well
Pass by
A small, often overlooked memorial, the Witches Well commemorates the women executed during the 16th and 17th-century witch trials.
Assembly Hall
Pass by
This grand building has long been the meeting place of the Church of Scotland’s General Assembly, a key site in Scottish religious history.
Pass by
An atmospheric 17th-century close, Mylnes Court represents some of the finest early architecture in Edinburgh's Old Town.
Pass by
Once a church, now a vibrant arts center, The Hub is the centerpiece of Edinburgh’s festival scene, housing the Edinburgh International Festival.
Pass by
This picturesque elevated street offers beautiful views over the Grassmarket and is lined with colorful, quirky shops.
Gladstone's Land
Pass by
One of the oldest surviving tenement buildings, this 17th-century structure offers a glimpse into the lives of Edinburgh’s early residents.
Deacon Brodie's Tavern
Pass by
Named after the notorious William Brodie, who lived a double life as a respected craftsman by day and criminal by night.
Pass by
This heart-shaped mosaic marks the site of the Old Tolbooth prison and is a symbol of Edinburgh’s storied past.
Pass by
The former home of Protestant reformer John Knox, this medieval building stands as a testament to Scotland’s turbulent religious history.
Pass by
This famous pub marks the boundary of Old Edinburgh, where the city walls once stood, symbolizing the end of the world for many.
Canongate Kirk
Pass by
A historic parish church frequented by Scottish royalty, Canongate Kirk holds ties to the monarchy and Edinburgh's civic traditions.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Pass by
This grand palace at the end of the Royal Mile is the official Scottish residence of the British monarch, steeped in royal history.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
From October to May, the tour begins in front of Edinburgh Castle with your back to the gatehouse, whereas from late May to October, the starting point is on the west end of the esplanade.
End point
The tour ends near the Old Physic Garden.
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
