Discover an Edinburgh beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks. Your expert guide will take you on a one and a half hour walking tour to all the places where history was made – the wynds, closes, courtyards and homes of Edinburgh’s Old Town. You’ll be hanging on your tour guide’s every word, as the true stories of the capital’s past unfold.

The characters? Think Mary Queen of Scots, David Hume, Adam Smith and Robert Burns. But you’ll go far beyond the well-known facts and faces – uncovering another side of the city, and Scotland’s past. From crime and culture to politics and everyday events, all Edinburgh life is here – expertly told by your guide.

Go beyond the guidebooks and explore Edinburgh’s Old Town with an expert guide
Learn about royalty, writers, philosophers – and everyday Edinburgh folk
Discover another side of the capital on this walking tour
Get immersed in the past, lost in the stories with audio guides and a live storyteller
Enjoy a small group experience with a local storyteller for a more personalized experience

This tour is suitable for children aged 5+, but please note that babies and strollers are not permitted
Please arrive at the meeting point (Mercat Cross, Royal Mile, EH1 1RF) at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your tour to allow time to check in
Concession tickets apply to seniors (aged 65+) and students (aged 18+) with a valid student ID
Your tour will be conducted by a live, English-speaking guide (no other language options available)
Please bring your own set of 3.5 mm jack headphones (where possible) for use with the TourTalk devices, otherwise these can be provided for you
Please note anyone who appears to be under the influence of alcohol will not be permitted to join the tour
This tour runs in all weather conditions, please dress accordingly to the weather. Sensible walking shoes are advised
Please note only service dogs are welcome on this tour, no other pets
The maximum number of participants is 18 people
Tour ends: Edinburgh Castle esplanade, Castlehill, EH1 2NG
This tour is wheelchair accessible
Suitcases and large rucksacks are not permitted on the tour

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Audio-guided tour
Guided walking tour
Use of equipment
Headsets (to hear the guide)
Local guide

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Mercat Cross, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, United Kingdom

Meeting point:

The Mercat Cross is an 8 sided monument situated on The Royal Mile. Please arrive at the meeting point Mercat Cross, Royal Mile, at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your tour to allow time to check in.