Edinburgh – Old Town Stories

Edinburgh’s Old Town is a captivating tapestry of history, architecture, and folklore. Set out on a walking tour that unveils the enchanting tales woven through the historic Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and St Giles Cathedral. Knowledgeable guides share the stories of the city’s past, offering a personalized experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Explore Edinburgh’s rich cultural heritage and uncover the hidden gems that make this destination truly unique.

Key Points

• Immersive two-hour walking tour through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, showcasing its rich cultural and architectural heritage.
• Engaging guides share captivating stories about the city’s citizens and residents, bringing the past to life.
• Explore iconic landmarks like the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Calton Hill, each with its own fascinating history.
• Small group size of up to 30 travelers ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
• Convenient accessibility via public transportation and wheelchair-friendly routes, allowing easy exploration after the tour.

Tour Highlights

What makes the Edinburgh Old Town Stories tour a must-do experience for visitors? This two-hour walking tour takes guests on a journey through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, showcasing its rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Travelers will discover iconic landmarks, from the iconic Royal Mile to the serene Greyfriars Kirkyard. Along the way, engaging guides share captivating stories about the city’s illustrious citizens and infamous residents, bringing the past to life.

With a maximum of 30 travelers per tour, the experience fosters an intimate and immersive atmosphere, allowing for deeper engagement and exploration of this enchanting Scottish city.

Meeting and Accessibility

The Edinburgh Old Town Stories tour begins in West Parliament Square, located in the heart of the historic Old Town.

From there, the tour winds its way through the charming medieval streets, ending at the Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and service animals are welcome.

Travelers can easily access the meeting point via public transportation, as it is conveniently situated near various bus and tram stops.

With the tour’s end point located within the same district, participants can seamlessly continue exploring the area after the 2-hour experience concludes.

Guide Quality and Expertise

Edinburgh Old Town Stories’ guides are widely praised for their engaging storytelling and in-depth historical knowledge.

Travelers consistently highlight the guides’ personable nature, enthusiasm, and ability to bring the city’s past to life. The tour’s small group size enhances the overall experience, allowing for greater engagement and participation.

Guides are known for:

• Sharing captivating stories about Edinburgh’s illustrious citizens and infamous residents
• Providing a depth of historical insights that enrich the tour
• Seamlessly weaving together facts and anecdotes to create a memorable and informative experience

The Royal Mile

Stretching for nearly a mile, the Royal Mile is the vibrant heart of Old Town Edinburgh. This historic thoroughfare links Edinburgh Castle at the top to the Holyrood Palace at the bottom, showcasing a rich tapestry of medieval architecture, lively pubs, and distinctive shops.

Visitors strolling along the Royal Mile are treated to stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral and the imposing castle.

The Royal Mile’s narrow closes and wynds (alleys) invite exploration, revealing hidden gems like Deacon Brodie’s Tavern, once frequented by the real-life inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde".

Mercat Cross and St Giles Cathedral

At the heart of Old Town Edinburgh stands the Mercat Cross, an ornate stone monument that has served as the traditional site for royal proclamations and public gatherings for centuries.

Just steps away, visitors can admire the majestic St Giles Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 12th century.

Highlights include:

• The cathedral’s intricately carved pulpit and stained glass windows
• The Thistle Chapel, a small but exquisite chapel dedicated to the Order of the Thistle
• The gravesite of John Knox, the influential leader of the Scottish Reformation

These iconic landmarks offer a window into Edinburgh’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Tucked away in the heart of Old Town Edinburgh, Greyfriars Kirkyard stands as a poignant reminder of the city’s storied past.

This historic cemetery is home to numerous notable graves, including those of the Covenanters, a group of Presbyterian Scots who fought against religious oppression.

Visitors can explore the intricate headstones and memorials, casting a solemn gaze upon the resting place of legendary figures.

The haunting atmosphere of the kirkyard has inspired tales of supernatural encounters, adding an air of mystery to this hallowed ground.

A must-see for those seeking to enjoy Edinburgh’s captivating history.

Calton Hill

Perched atop one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks, Calton Hill commands a sweeping vista over the city’s historic landscape.

Visitors ascend the hill to discover:

• The National Monument, an unfinished replica of the Parthenon, a poignant memorial to Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars.

• Elegant neoclassical buildings, including the Old Royal High School and the Dugald Stewart Monument, that showcase the city’s Georgian architectural heritage.

• Panoramic views encompassing the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Arthur’s Seat, the Firth of Forth, and the Pentland Hills, providing a breathtaking overview of Edinburgh’s diverse geography.

From this vantage point, Calton Hill offers a unique perspective on the city’s past and present, captivating both first-time and returning visitors.

Booking and Traveler Feedback

Booking the "Edinburgh Old Town Stories" tour is straightforward, with a range of options to suit different needs and preferences.

Priced at $18.91 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a convenient "reserve now, pay later" option.

With consistently excellent reviews, the tour is highly recommended by 100% of travelers, praising the engaging guides and the depth of historical insights provided.

Travelers particularly enjoy the small group size, which enhances the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour will be conducted outdoors.

How Much Free Time Is Provided During the Tour?

The tour provides approximately 15-20 minutes of free time at certain stops, allowing participants to explore iconic sites like Greyfriars Kirkyard and Calton Hill at their own pace and take photos. The tour guide will indicate when free time is available.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour, though visitors are advised to be mindful of others and to avoid obstructing the group or blocking the guide’s view. Guides are happy to accommodate photo requests at appropriate locations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour overview does not mention an option to extend the duration. The tour is specifically described as a 2-hour walking tour through Old Town Edinburgh. No information is provided about the possibility of extending the tour time.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

This tour can be customized for private groups. The tour provider offers private group bookings, allowing you to tailor the experience to your group’s interests and schedule. Contact the provider for more details on private tour options and pricing.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the iconic Royal Mile to the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard. With knowledgeable guides and a personalized experience, this walking tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s enchanting capital.