Tales of the Royal Mile - Lawnmarket and Castle Hill

Edinburgh , Scotland

Tales of the Royal Mile - Lawnmarket and Castle Hill

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About this experience

If you like your history a little deeper and more unusual, these new walking tours of the Royal Mile may be perfect!

Building on more than 6 years of unbroken five star reviews for his private touring, your guide Dr Moray Grigor will be delighted to welcome you into the rich and strange history of Scotland’s capital, as he brings you traditional tales of the Royal Mile and its historic events and characters.

In this uppermost section of the street (Monday tour) , we’ll hear of drunken judges, crazy clubs, religious fanatics, rebel ladies, fake news, philosophers, sieges, and hear why a pet blackbird was arrested! Annual building works permitting we’ll also enjoy the views from the Castle Esplanade.

Hear the sounds of Scots and Gaelic poetry and song (with translation), and tales that will stir the imagination and bring our history to life.

Experience the care, attention and warm Edinburgh welcome that brought six years of unbroken five stars!

Available options

Tales of the Royal Mile - Lawnmarket and Castle Hill

What's included

Tour guiding services

Detailed itinerary

We begin the tour by meeting Adam Smith, kingpin of Edinburgh's intellectual golden age; we'll be following his life and career as the tour progresses. What was the unusual medical prescription for his teenage psychological breakdown? All will be revealed!

We'll pass this historic Tavern, where we'll hear the story of Edinburgh's most infamous criminal, and how he inspired Edinburgh author Robert Louis Stevenson to create one of the most iconic characters in the world of literature.

Working our way up the street itself and passing through its back courts, we'll be sharing stories of the street's history and the characters who enriched it - Weir the Wizard, the Bowhead Saints, Lady Stair, Lord Newton, Patrick Geddes, and the great Rabbie Burns, to name just a few!

Here in the uppermost section of the Royal Mile, we'll hear stories of the great literary critic Dr Johnson's time in Edinburgh, as well as learning how Edinburgh solved its water crisis in 1674; we'll also pass the former palace of Marie de Guise, mother of iconic Mary, Queen of Scots

Annual construction works permitting, we'll visit the 'top of the town' - a wonderful spacious plaza with magnificent Edinburgh Castle as backdrop. Here we'll look out across the Lothians and Fife, and hear stories of King James VI, Allan Ramsay and Bonnie Prince Charlie; also we'll hear about what Edinburgh youth got up to on Saturday afternoons before sports were invented!

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet at the west end of the square, opposite the main door of St. Giles' Cathedral - your guide will be clearly liveried in 7 Hills Tours jacket.

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