Why was a pet blackbird arrested in 1736?
What did a washerwoman insist on before she would pull philosopher David Hume out of a swamp?
Why was Robert the Bruce Edinburgh Castle’s most deadly enemy?
You really couldn’t make up the history of Old Edinburgh!
Seldom in the world can there have been so many odd events and strange goings-on in one town’s story as in Edinburgh, and telling these curious tales is what this tour is all about! Local doctor Moray Grigor is an Edinburgh native and lover of the city, and has been collecting some of the best of its stories to bring to you.
Starting just below the Castle, we’ll be touring down the world-famous Royal Mile, ducking into alleys and back courts as we go, and we’ll be hearing the most outlandish, amusing and fascinating anecdotes of the Old Town, many collected by Edinburgh publisher and author Robert Chambers right back in 1824.
In Edinburgh, truth really is stranger than fiction – as Dr Grigor will be delighted to show you!
What's included
All guiding and commentary on this 4-5 hour outdoor tour
We have an optional refreshment stop, but food and drinks are not inclusive.
What to expect
Castello Di Edimburgo
20m
Tales of Bonnie' Dundee's escape from Edinburgh, Allan Ramsay's court appeal, enormous gang fights and water woes!
30m
Tales of rebellious pets, couples at political loggerheads, two-faced businessmen, philosopher-chefs and fake news!
Advocate's Close
10m
Tales of lame, gangfighting would-be authors, astounded judges, and very mischievous little girls!
St Giles' Cathedral
30m
Tales of kings in debt, romantic silver spoons, church prayer-stools being thrown, and an unusual resting place for our most famous preacher.
Royal Mile
1h
Tales of theatre riots, dull dances, raving beauties, novel financial products, and full-scale rebellion!
Canongate Kirk
25m
Tales of vicious poets, tragic Royal favourites, and eccentric economists!
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
We meet near the top of Castlehill (top of Royal Mile) near the head of Castle Wynd North stairs.
End point
Just outside Canongate Kirk in Canongate (lower Royal Mile)
Additional information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Due to the amount of walking on hard and sometimes uneven surfaces we do not recommend the tour for guests with mobility problems (unless using wheelchair)
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
