Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard tour offers a captivating look into the city’s rich history. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 1.5-hour walking tour takes visitors through the iconic cemetery, unveiling tales of renowned figures interred there. From connections to a famous boy wizard to a devoted dog, the tour promises an engaging journey through time. With a perfect 5/5 rating, it’s a must-do for history enthusiasts seeking to uncover the haunting beauty and hidden stories of this remarkable place.
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour guided walking tour through the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh, featuring stories of famous and lesser-known figures interred in the cemetery.
- The tour is led by local guides with extensive knowledge of the cemetery’s history and connections to a popular boy wizard.
- Participants can explore 17th-century tombs, a World War I ace pilot’s gravesite, and a touching memorial to a dedicated dog during the tour.
- The tour is priced from €19.12 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 for an intimate experience.
- The tour operates rain or shine, and comfortable shoes are recommended, though it is not wheelchair accessible.
Tour Overview
The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour is a 1.5-hour guided walking experience through Edinburgh’s famous cemetery.
Explore Edinburgh’s famous Greyfriars Kirkyard on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour.
Priced from €19.12 per person, the tour is limited to groups of 8 for a more intimate experience.
Led by local guides with extensive knowledge, participants can expect to learn about the historical figures interred in the cemetery, including a lecturer of Charles Darwin and a First World War ace pilot.
The tour highlights unique features of the 17th-century tombs and potential links to a boy wizard and a dedicated dog.
Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour operates rain or shine.
Booking Information
Reservations for the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour can be made online, with no upfront payment required. The cancellation policy offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants. Guests should arrive 5 minutes early at the designated meeting point on 84 West Bow, Victoria Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2HH.
| Booking Information | | |
|———————|———————|———————|
| Reservation | Pay Later | Free Cancellation |
| Meeting Point | Victoria Street | 5 Mins Early |
| Refund Policy | 24 Hours Advance | Full Refund |
Tour Highlights
Engaging tales of famous and little-known individuals interred in Greyfriars Kirkyard captivate tour participants.
The guide shares stories about:
The guide shares stories about famous and little-known individuals interred in the captivating Greyfriars Kirkyard, blending history, symbolism, and the extraordinary.
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Charles Darwin’s lecturer, whose tomb is marked by a unique symbol.
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A First World War ace pilot whose gravesite sparks discussions on the imagery of 17th-century tombs.
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Potential links to a boy wizard, revealed through intriguing features of the cemetery.
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A dedicated dog whose memorial offers a touching glimpse into the past.
Through these narratives, the tour provides a richly immersive experience, blending history, symbolism, and the extraordinary within the confines of this iconic Edinburgh landmark.
What’s Included
Guests on the Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour are provided with a local guide who has extensive knowledge of the cemetery’s history and the stories behind its iconic tombs. The tour package includes access to Greyfriars Kirkyard, allowing visitors to enjoy its rich past. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour operates rain or shine. Guests should also be aware of the tour’s age restrictions, as it is not suitable for children under 12 years old. Plus, the tour is not accessible for wheelchair users.
| What’s Included |
|—————–|
| Local Guide |
| Entry to Kirkyard|
| Comfortable Shoes|
| Age Restrictions|
More Great Tours NearbyParticipant Guidelines
Although not suitable for children under 12 years, the Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour is accessible to participants of all ages.
The Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour is accessible to all ages, though not suitable for children under 12 years.
The tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly, so those with mobility issues may find it challenging. Participants are prohibited from bringing:
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Food
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Drinks
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Unaccompanied minors
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Video recording devices
The tour operates rain or shine, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Customer Feedback
The Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour has consistently received excellent reviews from participants. Based on 95 reviews, the tour holds an impressive 5/5 overall rating. Reviewers have consistently praised the tour guides for their friendliness and extensive knowledge of the cemetery and local history. Participants have also highlighted the intimate group size, which enhances the experience compared to larger tours. Plus, visitors have provided positive feedback on the charming on-site shop and engaging interactions with the staff.
| Ratings | Percentage |
| — | — |
| 5 stars | 89% |
| 4 stars | 11% |
| 3 stars | 0% |
| 2 stars | 0% |
Historical Insights
As visitors embark on the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour, they’ll discover captivating stories about the famous and lesser-known individuals interred within the cemetery’s hallowed grounds.
The guide will share insights on:
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A lecturer of Charles Darwin, whose tomb is adorned with intricate carvings.
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A First World War ace pilot, whose heroic exploits are memorialized in stone.
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A local legend about a loyal dog, whose devotion transcended death.
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Potential links to a beloved boy wizard, hinting at the cemetery’s enduring magical allure.
These historical tales breathe life into the Kirkyard, making for a truly engaging and enlightening experience.
Unique Features
Beyond the historical insights shared by the knowledgeable guide, the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour also reveals several unique features that captivate visitors.
One such highlight is the potential link to a famous boy wizard. Rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s character, the Kirkyard’s iconic black dog named Greyfriars Bobby has become a beloved icon.
Plus, the cemetery boasts a dedicated dog monument, commemorating the loyalty of a canine companion who guarded its owner’s grave for over a decade.
These quirky details add an extra layer of intrigue to an already fascinating exploration of Edinburgh’s storied past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as stated in the participant guidelines. The cemetery’s uneven terrain and narrow paths make it unsuitable for wheelchair users.
Can I Bring My Camera on the Tour?
No, video recording is prohibited on the tour. However, you’re welcome to bring your camera to capture still images during the 1.5-hour guided walk through Greyfriars Kirkyard, as long as you follow the participant guidelines.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities On-Site?
Unfortunately, there are no restroom facilities on-site during the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour. The tour focuses solely on the historic cemetery, so visitors should plan accordingly before and after the 1.5-hour experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no formal dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather.
Can I Go on the Tour Alone or Do I Need to Be Part of a Group?
You can go on the tour alone – the group size is limited to 8 participants, so you don’t need to be part of a pre-existing group. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience.
The Sum Up
The Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour in Edinburgh offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history. With knowledgeable guides, small group size, and top-rated reviews, it’s a must-do for history enthusiasts seeking an engaging and immersive experience. Explore the haunting beauty of this iconic cemetery, uncover tales of renowned figures, and discover the unique connections that make this tour a truly memorable adventure.
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