Tales of the Royal Mile - Lawnmarket and Castlehill

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is often seen as the city’s historic heart, but exploring it through a story-filled lens can reveal a layer of local lore and oddities that standard tours just don’t cover. This particular experience, guided by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Dr. Moray Grigor, promises a peek into the city’s more unusual, humorous, and sometimes bizarre past. It’s a fresh take on Edinburgh’s most iconic street—perfect for travelers craving more than just the usual sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers deep historical insights intertwined with colorful tales of figures and incidents that shaped Edinburgh. Second, you’ll get to hear original Scots verse with translations, adding a poetic flavor to the stories. Third, the small group size of no more than ten participants ensures a personal touch and plenty of opportunity for questions. However, one thing to consider is that the tour might be less suitable if you’re keen on a broad overview or visiting specific monuments—this is more about stories and atmosphere. Ideal for curious history buffs, language lovers, or those tired of traditional sightseeing, this walk offers a uniquely Edinburgh experience.

Contents show

Key Points

Small group setting for a more intimate experience.
Expert guide with over six years of highly-rated private tours.
Focus on quirky and lesser-known stories of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Poetry and song in old Scots with translations, adding cultural depth.
2-hour walking tour with flexible scheduling.
Primarily suited for adults and children over 5; mobility limitations are a consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Walk through Edinburgh’s Quirky Tales

The Tales of the Royal Mile tour is designed for those who love stories that go beyond the usual guidebook fare. As you meet your guide, Dr. Moray Grigor, near the statue beside St Giles’ Cathedral, you’ll immediately notice his enthusiasm for Edinburgh’s more unusual history. Clad in bright blue livery, he clearly loves sharing his passion, and it shows in his storytelling – lively, engaging, and peppered with humor.

Looking for more options in Edinburgh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary and Highlights

This tour covers the topmost section of the Royal Mile, specifically the Lawnmarket and Castlehill, a stretch packed with history and character. Within this two-hour walk, you’ll hear about a variety of colorful characters, historic events, and odd anecdotes that have left their mark.

Starting Point: Your guide will wait near the tall statue outside St Giles’ Cathedral, creating a convenient and recognizable meeting point. From there, expect a steady walk along the historic street, with stops at notable spots and stories woven into the route.

Storytelling Focus: Unlike more traditional tours that rattle off dates and facts, this experience emphasizes narratives that bring Edinburgh’s streets alive. For example, you’ll hear about philosophers, warlocks, and even treasonous pet birds—tales that sound almost too strange to be true but are rooted in real history. One story details the man who inspired Jekyll and Hyde, blending literary legend with local lore. Another involves wheelbarrows of cash, hinting at Edinburgh’s past financial mischief.

Poetry and Song: An especially charming part of the walk involves recitations of verses in old Scots, which are then translated, giving a taste of the city’s linguistic heritage. This not only enriches the storytelling but also offers a cultural experience rarely found in standard tours.

The Stories: As you walk, the guide shares stories about fake news, treason, and even two pet birds that committed treason—these tales are told with warmth and humor, making history feel alive and relevant. The reviews highlight how these stories resonate, with one saying, “The tales are so vivid I felt like I was stepping back in time.”

The Experience and Atmosphere

One of the tour’s strengths is the personal attention. With a cap of ten participants, you’re encouraged to ask questions and engage directly with Dr. Moray. This creates an informal, relaxed environment where learning feels natural.

The pace is gentle, suitable for most walking speeds, and the focus is on storytelling rather than strenuous activity. Since the tour covers historic streets, wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, especially if you plan to explore Edinburgh afterward.

Value and Practical Details

At around two hours, this tour offers a focused, yet comprehensive glimpse into Edinburgh’s lesser-known stories. The price reflects the personalized experience and the depth of knowledge offered. Since food and drink are not included, you might consider grabbing a snack before or after—though the storytelling is rich enough to satisfy most curiosity.

The small group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the tour’s scheduling is flexible—just check availability for your preferred time. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guide: Dr. Moray Grigor

From reviews, it’s clear that Dr. Moray is a passionate storyteller who brings Edinburgh’s history to life with humor and insight. His six-year streak of five-star reviews hints at a tour experience that balances entertaining storytelling with factual accuracy. Many mention his engaging delivery and his ability to make history feel personal and relevant.

There's plenty more to explore in Edinburgh

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers who want stories with a twist, culture and language enthusiasts interested in old Scots, and those seeking a more intimate, narrative-driven tour. It’s perfect if you enjoy anecdotes, poetry, and lively storytelling. However, if you’re after a broad overview of Edinburgh’s landmarks or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

Tales of the Royal Mile offers a refreshing peek into Edinburgh’s more quirky, humorous, and intriguing past. With a well-informed guide, a small group setting, and stories that stick in your memory, it’s a meaningful alternative to traditional city tours. You’ll come away not just knowing the history but feeling it, through tales that entertain and educate in equal measure.

For travelers who crave authentic, story-rich experiences, this tour provides a wonderful balance of education, entertainment, and local color. It’s best suited for those who enjoy engaging storytelling and aren’t just after a quick overview. Whether you’re a literature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about Edinburgh’s secrets, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and engaging experience without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the guiding service. Food and drink are not included, so plan accordingly if you wish to have a snack afterward.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins near the statue outside the main doors of St Giles’ Cathedral, where your guide will be waiting in bright blue livery. The tour ends back at this same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 5 years old; younger children or those with mobility impairments may find it less accessible.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal and interactive experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to reserve and pay upfront?
Yes, reservations can be made with a “reserve now, pay later” option, offering flexibility in planning.

Is this a good way to see Edinburgh if I have limited time?
It’s a concise way to get a taste of the city’s lesser-known stories, perfect if you’re short on time but want an authentic, storytelling-focused experience.