Enjoy a fully-guided tour of Old Town Edinburgh and its must-see highlights. Explore the city streets with our local guide discovering the heart of the city, its culture, history, the Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare of the Old Town and a recognised World UNESCO Heritage site, and enjoy all the thrilling Harry Potter landmarks.
This tour offers one of the most unique and truly memorable visits to the historical heart of Edinburgh. Scotland’s capital offers an incredible mix of historical highlights including castles, churches, Abbeys and remarkable architecture and one of the best museums in the British Isles, The National Museum of Scotland. Visit spellbinding locations and landmarks dotted throughout this Magical Kingdom that will transport you to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry that featured in the Harry Potter films. The tour is narrated by a Wizard who is also an expert local guide and will lead the group on a fascinating walk of discovery.
The tour begins where Rowling finished. This magical hotel will be where the Muggles show up to meet their local Wizard before departing on their magical spelling binding journey.
Located on the Royal Mile a short distance from the castle, the John Knox House & Scottish Storytelling Centre attraction is a treat for anyone interested in Scotland's rich cultural heritage. It was built in 1470 and is said to be the one-time home of the protestant reformer after which it's named.The expert local guide will offer incredible insights into the Scottish Reformation, a pivotal moment in the country's history.
Stop to hear about The Mercat Cross of Edinburgh located in Parliament Square next to St Giles' Cathedral on the Royal Mile. The Mercat Cross has been around since the 14th century, although the present structure is of Victorian origin. Moved several times, disassembled and reassembled. The Cross is not really a cross. It is a octagonal drum substructure with the royal arms of Britain, Scotland, England and Ireland, the borough arms of Edinburgh, Leith and the Canongate, and the University. Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross is topped with a carved unicorn, Scotland’s national animal. The Mercat Cross is a landmark in Edinburgh. As elsewhere in Scotland, important civic announcements were made at the Mercat Cross. In the past, you would also have seen public punishments and executions carried out at the cross. It's been the site of landmark moments in the city's history. Make sure you see the unicorn at the top. Group will have time to take photos.
Consecrated in 1243, St. Giles Cathedral — also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh — is Edinburgh's principal church. On this stop guests will see the current structure which was built in the 1300s and is notable for its impressive 161-foot-tall central tower with its eight arched buttresses. These form a huge crown (the Crown Steeple), which has become a favorite backdrop for photos and selfies. Interior highlights include memorials to the dead of WWI; lovely stained-glass windows; and a statue of John Knox, leader of the Protestant Reformation (his former home, 45 High Street, is close by and contains a museum). The tour guide will offer a fully guided exterior visit allowing guests the opportunity to learn so much about the structure and the history of Scotland.
We stop here to find out about Deacon Brodie, one of the most infamous criminals from Edinburgh's history and we will find out about the famous character he inspired for Robert Louis Stevenson the Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Stop to take a photo of the very location where JK Rowling wrote the most incredible Harry Potter fantasy series, which has won multiple awards and sold more than 500 million copies, becoming the best-selling book series in the world.
Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who became known in 19th-century Edinburgh, Scotland, after reportedly spending fourteen years guarding his owner's grave, until his own death on 14 January 1872. The story continues to be well known in Scotland, through several books and films. A prominent commemorative statue and nearby graves are a tourist attraction.
The expert local guide will enlighten the tour group with a visit to a collection of the most interesting exhibits which will provide a comprehensive overview of Scotland’s artifacts and treasure. Come face-to-face with iconic historic artefacts, learn how Scottish innovation has helped shape the modern world, and inspired JK Rowling to create the greatest spellbinding character in history.
MEETING TIME: 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.
MEETING PLACE: The Balmoral, 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, United Kingdom
MEETING POINT: Meet your guide directly outside the hotel. Please do not go inside the lobby!
- You cannot enter the venue with this voucher.
- To participate in your tour, you must first check-in with the guide 15 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
- You can only access the venues as part of your organised group tour. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated and missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled.
Health & Safety:
- This tour is not suitable for guests who require any device to assist with mobility.
- Participants should be in good health, consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.
- Wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking.
- Operates in all weather conditions.
- Anybody under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by somebody aged 18 years or older.
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.
A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.
Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.
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.
British Pound (GBP)
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
230VV, 50HzHz
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.
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket
Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)
Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.
Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW
Car, Bike, Scooter
Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
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 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.
Price varies by option