Edinburgh’s history lovers can uncover the city’s captivating past on the Old Town Walking Tour. Led by expert local guides, this small-group experience takes participants through the iconic sights of the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Princes Street Gardens. Delving into the compelling stories behind these landmarks, the tour offers an intimate and engaging way to explore Edinburgh’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to reveal the city’s hidden gems and leave you eager to discover more.
Key Points
- Explore Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, including the iconic Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Princes Street Gardens on a small-group walking tour.
- Discover captivating stories and uncover the history of Edinburgh’s past through the expert guidance of a local guide.
- Experience a personalized tour in a small group setting, capped at a maximum of 15 travelers.
- Tour is accessible to wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and service animals, ensuring an inclusive experience.
- Enjoy immediate booking confirmation and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
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Tour Overview
This small-group walking tour of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town takes visitors on an exploration of the city’s storied past, covering highlights like the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Princes Street Gardens.
Led by an expert local guide, the tour provides an intimate experience for a maximum of 15 people.
Participants will uncover the history and captivating stories that lie within these iconic landmarks, seeing the rich heritage of Scotland’s capital.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to discover the charm of Old Town, this guided tour offers a unique and engaging way to experience the heart of Edinburgh.
Meeting and Pickup
The tour meeting point is the Statue of Sir James Young Simpson, located at 132 Princes St, Edinburgh, with the end point being the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic at 197 High St, Edinburgh.
This makes it easy for participants to find the tour and also provides a convenient location to conclude the experience.
The meeting point is in a central area, allowing attendees to arrive early and explore the surrounding streets and landmarks before the tour begins.
The end point is close to other popular attractions, making it simple for guests to continue their Edinburgh adventure after the walking tour.
With clear meeting and pickup instructions, the tour organizers ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.
Tour Details
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with a start time of 4:30 pm. This gives you ample time to explore the historic Old Town at a leisurely pace. The walking tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed, ensuring it’s inclusive for all.
| Tour Details | |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Start Time | 4:30 pm |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair, stroller, service animals |
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Edinburgh’s past, this small-group experience promises an intimate and enlightening journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by the expert local guide’s storytelling as you discover the rich history and hidden gems of the Old Town.
Inclusions
Expert local guides lead this small-group experience, ensuring an intimate tour through Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks.
This walking tour includes:
- An expert local guide to share the history and stories of Edinburgh’s past in engaging detail.
- A small-group setting, capped at 15 travelers, for a more personalized experience.
- Accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access, as well as the ability to bring service animals.
With these inclusions, history lovers can enjoy the rich heritage of Edinburgh’s Old Town, exploring the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and Princes Street Gardens with the insight of a knowledgeable local guide.
Policies
Confirmation of booking is received immediately upon purchase, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s start.
A maximum of 15 travelers are allowed per tour, ensuring a small-group experience. This policy helps maintain an intimate and personalized atmosphere, allowing the guide to engage with each participant more effectively.
The tour’s accessibility is also a key factor, as it welcomes wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and service animals, ensuring everyone can enjoy the journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Exploring the Royal Mile
As visitors embark on the tour, they’ll encounter the iconic Royal Mile, the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This famous thoroughfare, stretching from the imposing Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, offers a window into the city’s captivating past.
Along the way, they’ll:
- Admire the striking architecture, from the Gothic grandeur of St. Giles’ Cathedral to the ornate tenements that line the streets.
- Discover hidden closes and wynds, where stories of intrigue, rebellion, and daily life echo through the centuries.
- Pause at the Heart of Midlothian mosaic, a poignant memorial to the city’s tumultuous history.
The Royal Mile is a treasure trove of Edinburgh’s heritage, and this tour provides an immersive exploration of its rich and fascinating past.
Discovering Greyfriars Kirkyard
From the Royal Mile, the tour then leads participants to the captivating Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic cemetery with a rich tapestry of tales.
Here, the guide delves into the site’s storied past, sharing tales of the Covenanters who were imprisoned and executed within its grounds.
Visitors will explore the ornate monuments and gravestones, learning about the famous figures laid to rest here, including the loyal dog Greyfriars Bobby.
The guide skillfully weaves together the site’s haunting history, bringing to life the spirits that are said to linger in this hallowed ground.
With its atmospheric ambiance and intriguing stories, Greyfriars Kirkyard offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s haunting past.
Strolling Through Princes Street Gardens
After exploring the captivating Greyfriars Kirkyard, the tour leads participants into the tranquil haven of Princes Street Gardens. Stretching along the northern edge of the Royal Mile, these lush, landscaped gardens offer a serene respite from the bustling city streets.
The guide highlights the gardens’ rich history, dating back to the early 18th century when the area was transformed from a marshy loch into a beautiful public space. Visitors can admire the striking monuments and statues that dot the verdant lawns, including the iconic Scott Monument, a towering tribute to the renowned Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.
Some key features of Princes Street Gardens include:
- The Scott Monument, a neo-Gothic masterpiece standing at an impressive 200 feet tall.
- The Ross Fountain, a stunning example of Victorian cast-iron craftsmanship.
- The floral displays that change with the seasons, offering a colorful and ever-evolving landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide any food or beverages, so feel free to bring what you need to stay refreshed and energized during the 2-hour walking experience.
How Physically Demanding Is the Walking During the Tour?
The walking on this tour is moderate, covering around 2 miles at a relaxed pace. The route includes some hills and uneven terrain, so participants should be prepared for light physical activity. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Does the Guide Provide Any Recommended Restaurants or Pubs?
The guide typically provides recommendations for local restaurants and pubs along the tour route, allowing participants to experience the dining and drinking culture of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town after the guided walk.
Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Tour Price?
No, there are no additional costs beyond the tour price. The tour includes an expert local guide and a small-group experience, and there are no extra fees or charges during the tour.
Can I Extend the Tour With the Guide After It Ends?
Yes, guests can discuss extending the tour with the guide after it ends. However, additional fees may apply for the extended time. Guests should check with the guide about availability and pricing for any optional extension.
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Recap
The History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through Edinburgh’s captivating past.
Guided by local experts, the tour takes visitors along the iconic Royal Mile, through the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, and into the serene Princes Street Gardens, providing unique insights and an intimate experience for history enthusiasts.
With its engaging format and compelling narratives, the tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the enchanting heritage of this historic city.
