Edinburgh Hidden Gems Self-Guided Private Tour

Edinburgh , Scotland

Edinburgh Hidden Gems Self-Guided Private Tour

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(1 reviews)

2h - 3h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Forget about crowds, schedules or lines! With Pandemic Tours' self-guided experiences your phone is your new private guide.

In this incredible experience, Moira will show you a less-known walk, slightly off the beaten track but nonetheless, one that is steeped in the past and beauty: A Tour to Duddingston Village!

This is a wonderful and informative experience for anyone to enjoy - however a certain level of fitness is required (or you can take a taxi).

Discover how Duddingston Village is a magical slice of history, art, nature, architecture and tales. In these small streets, you'll meet Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, Raeburn and Walter Scott - a beheaded Queen, a would-be King, a famous artist, and a renowned writer. Plus, you will learn about Holyrood Park and the story behind the oldest working Church in Scotland.

PS: You will get an email with instructions for downloading our app and redeeming your unique code (different code than your booking reference number).

Available options

Edinburgh Hidden Gems Self-Guided Private Tour

What's included

You will get an email with instructions to activate your tour (booking reference isn't the code!)

Audio guide, videos, pictures, recommendations and all the info you need

Moira will guide you through an audio guide (no computer-generated voice!)

3 weeks unlimited access to this Self-Guided Tour on the app

Map, directions, GPS route and stops of each tour

Detailed itinerary

You will learn why Scots have a sweet tooth! Here is the story of the Tablet and Fudge.

The old city of Edinburgh is like a maze with small alleys off the main roads and they each take you somewhere that feels magical. One of these hidden gems is the gardens at Dunbar Close. It’s right here in the centre of the city and unknown to most residents.

Standing on the main pavement, outside Canongate Kirk, we find the statue of Robert Ferguson. We cannot walk past this statue and not wonder who he is, and why he is so prominent on the Canongate.

You will learn everything about this important character as we move on on this tour.

Stop 4 Pass by

You will learn about both the Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament while we walk along this tour.

Learn all about this large park in the middle of the city; its history, what people used to do here centuries ago and how it has changed over time.

Stop 6 Pass by

Arthur’s Seat - the hill is an extinct volcano where signs of human habitation have been found 5000 years BC. It seems people have always lived here, innit. We will have a glance at its fascinating history. The climb is optional!

Stop 7 Pass by

As you clipped the top of the hill and started to descend the vista of the loch opened up in front of you. Duddingston Loch is a freshwater loch, and the only natural one remaining in the city. Discover this amazing village and lake in this tour!

Stop 8

It is believed that an Inn has stood on this site since 1360, although not in this building! If it is true then the Sheep Head Inn is one of the oldest surviving Inns in Scotland and probably worth visiting for that fact alone.

Stop 9 Pass by

In this remote location, you will find Prince Charlie’s Cottage. There is a plaque outside this cottage marking it as the place where Prince Charles Edward Stuart held his war council before the Battle of Prestonpans. You will hear all about this amazing story.

One of the emblems of Duddingston Village. The Church remains a working Church and must be one of the oldest in Scotland. You will also hear all you need to know about this beautiful landmark.

Visit one of Edinburgh's hidden gems and best-kept secret! Dr Neil's Garden or more commonly known as the Secret Gardens. You guessed right, you'll hear all about it with this tour.

Stop 12

The tour finishes at Jock Tamson’s Gairden: Another hidden gem of Edinburgh.

What's not included

Live Guide (in-person)

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Check the "Before You Go" Section of your booking!

Meeting point

All our tours are self-guided. You will be led by the GPS in the app. Remember to check the "Before You Go" Section of your ticket and give Pandemic Tours App access to your location!

Important notes

Thanks for choosing Pandemic Tours!

To start the tour, download our App here:
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/co/app/pandemic-tours/id1563922882
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app3129

Once in-app, select your tour by tapping the "Tour" tab, select "Enter Code" for Android or "Login to Download" for iOS and redeem this code (or "Login" for iOS):

DUDDING5319

You'll have full access to the tour for 3 weeks. If you have any problem with your booking, contact us at support@pandemictoursapp.com or via WhatsApp at +569 42572988.

Top tip: access the tour a bit earlier so you familiarise yourself with the App and don't forget to give it access to your location so you can use the map function. Make sure you have a strong internet connection when downloading the tour!

Enjoy your stroll!

PS: Don't forget to rate my tour, please! =)

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture