Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour

Edinburgh’s Old Town is steeped in rich history, and the "History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour" offers an immersive way to explore it. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 2-hour journey takes visitors through the city’s hidden alleyways, uncovering captivating tales of Scottish monarchs and significant landmarks. From stunning views of Edinburgh Castle to the atmospheric charm of the Grassmarket, the tour promises engaging narratives and unforgettable historical insights. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour is sure to leave you intrigued and eager to discover more.

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Key Points

Immersive 2-hour walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town, covering key landmarks and hidden alleyways with knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
Explore the Royal Mile’s architecture, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and Scottish Parliament, while learning about Scottish monarchs.
Discover the vibrant Grassmarket, a historic marketplace, and the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard with its intriguing tombstones.
Enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from the Ross Fountain and learn about its history as a focal point of Scottish power.
Tour includes hidden gems like Victoria Street and George IV Bridge, showcasing Edinburgh’s rich history and architecture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour" offers a 2-hour immersive exploration of Edinburgh’s captivating Old Town.

Priced from €21.51 per person, the tour is led by knowledgeable guides in English. It starts at the Statue of Sir James Young Simpson and covers highlights like the Princess Street Gardens, Ross Fountain, Royal Mile’s hidden alleys, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Parliament Square.

Flexibility is a plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. The tour runs rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for the weather is essential.

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Key Highlights of the Tour

One of the key highlights of the Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour is the chance to immerse visitors in Scottish history while strolling the captivating Old Town streets.

The tour offers:

Explore the Old Town’s hidden alleyways and uncover Edinburgh’s rich history on this captivating walking tour.

Stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from the Ross Fountain, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
Exploration of the Royal Mile’s hidden alleyways, uncovering the city’s rich past.
A visit to the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, which boasts connections to the Harry Potter series and Scotland’s monarchs.

Throughout the 2-hour experience, guests can expect an engaging narrative from knowledgeable guides, bringing the city’s vibrant history to life.

Exploring the Royal Mile

Descending from the stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, the walking tour leads guests into the heart of the city’s historic Old Town – the iconic Royal Mile.

Winding through the narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards, the tour offers a glimpse into Scotland’s rich past.

Visitors explore the Royal Mile’s impressive architecture, including St. Giles’ Cathedral, and learn about the significance of landmarks like the Scottish Parliament building.

Along the way, the guide shares captivating tales of Scottish monarchs, from the grandeur of kings and queens to the grisly fate of those who met their demise in these storied streets.

Discovering Grassmarket and Greyfriars Kirkyard

Leaving the Royal Mile behind, the walking tour leads visitors to the vibrant Grassmarket, once a bustling marketplace and site of public executions.

The tour explores this historic square, highlighting:

The Grassmarket’s dark history as the site of public hangings, where visitors can pay respects at a memorial commemorating those who lost their lives.
The impressive architecture surrounding the square, including the towering Greyfriars Kirk and the charming Greyfriars Bobby statue, a tribute to a loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave for 14 years.
The opportunity to stroll through the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, a cemetery filled with intriguing tombstones and tales of the supernatural.

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Views of Edinburgh Castle

As the walking tour moves on from the Grassmarket and Greyfriars Kirkyard, it leads participants to a prime vantage point for admiring the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

From the Ross Fountain, the group can take in sweeping views of the imposing medieval fortress perched atop an ancient volcanic rock.

The guide shares the castle’s rich history, explaining how it has been a focal point of Scottish power for centuries.

Visitors marvel at the castle’s striking silhouette against the city skyline, imagining the kings and queens who once walked its halls.

This viewing spot offers an unforgettable perspective on one of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks.

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Hidden Alleyways and Noteworthy Spots

The walking tour then leads participants through several hidden alleyways along the Royal Mile.

These lesser-known passages offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s storied past:

Victoria Street: A colorful, curving street lined with independent shops and cafes, reminiscent of the Victorian era.
Grassmarket: A historic marketplace surrounded by charming pubs and the imposing Greyfriars Kirkyard, the resting place of many prominent Scots.
George IV Bridge: Offering prime views of the city’s iconic skyline, including the famous Harry Potter filming locations.

The tour concludes at Parliament Square and the High Street, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s hidden gems.

Traversing Princess Street Gardens

After exploring the hidden alleyways of the Royal Mile, the walking tour leads participants into the serene expanse of Princess Street Gardens.

Here, the group learns about the gardens’ dark past, including tales of public hangings that once occurred on the grounds.

The tour guide points out the iconic Ross Fountain, which offers stunning views of the imposing Edinburgh Castle towering above.

Visitors have a chance to stroll through the lush greenery and take in the city’s historic architecture before moving on to the next stop along the Old Town adventure.

Customer Reviews and Important Information

Visitors overwhelmingly praise the Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour, awarding it an impressive 5/5 rating based on 14 reviews.

Highlights include:

Guides like Madge and Emma who bring the tour to life through their theatrical presentations and knowledge of hidden spots.
Engaging storytelling that brings Edinburgh’s rich history to the forefront.
Essential tips, such as dressing appropriately for the weather and not bringing babies under 1 year, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Free Parking Available Near the Meeting Point?

The tour information doesn’t mention free parking near the meeting point. Visitors may need to use public transportation or find metered street parking or a nearby parking garage, as the downtown location likely has limited free parking options.

Can I Bring My Pet Dog on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour information states it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, so it’s likely pets won’t be permitted either for the comfort and safety of all participants.

Do the Guides Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour guides don’t appear to offer any discounts for students or seniors. The pricing information provided indicates a fixed rate per person, without any mention of reduced rates for specific groups.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

The tour isn’t ideal for those with mobility challenges. It involves navigating uneven cobblestone streets, steep hills, and stairs. However, the operator may be able to accommodate guests with advance notice. It’s best to discuss any accessibility needs prior to booking.

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour or Is Advance Booking Required?

The tour allows advance booking, but tickets can also be purchased on the day. Advance booking is recommended, as spaces may be limited, especially during peak seasons. Customers have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

The Sum Up

This walking tour offers a captivating exploration of Edinburgh’s Old Town, uncovering its rich history and hidden gems. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll discover the Royal Mile‘s atmospheric alleys, the iconic Greyfriars Kirkyard, and the vibrant Grassmarket, all while enjoying stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. With engaging narratives and insightful commentary, this tour promises an immersive experience for history enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: