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5 (1)

Location Icon Edinburgh

Edinburgh's Royal Mile: Secret Alleyway Walking Tour

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150

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo The Edinburgh Royal Mile Alleyway Tour invites explorers to uncover the hidden stories within Edinburgh's historic heart. This walking tour guides participants from the Edinburgh Castle esplanade through the old closes and narrow passages that lead to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It's perfect for anyone wanting to see the authentic and surprising side of Edinburgh.

Visitors can expect to stroll through iconic landmarks like Bakehouse Close, Dunbar’s Close, and James Court, discovering the lives of figures such as Allan Ramsay, David Hume, and Patrick Geddes. These gardens offer quiet escapes among the stone buildings. This unique experience provides insights into the history and culture of Edinburgh's most famous street, the Royal Mile which includes Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street, and Canongate.

This tour includes a two-and-a-half-hour guided walk through the Royal Mile's alleyways. It excludes personal expenses. Participants will meet their guide and delve into the hidden gems of Edinburgh, exploring the gardens and closes along the Royal Mile, uncovering a side of the city many tourists miss. The operator expertise, awards, and Viator review highlights show great experiences from past visitors. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Discover Hidden Alleys: Explore the Royal Mile's secret alleyways and closes.

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Expert Local Guide: Hear fascinating stories from an experienced guide.

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Iconic Landmarks: Visit famous spots like Bakehouse Close and Dunbar’s Close.

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Historical Insights: Learn about key figures like Allan Ramsay and David Hume.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers highly recommend this tour, praising the guide's knowledge and the enjoyable experience. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved Javier's passion and knowledge during the tour.

    Positive Highlight Icon Visitors found the tour informative and enjoyable.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many recommend the tour, saying it flew by because it was so good.

    Positive Highlight Icon The tour is great for small groups who want to explore Edinburgh.

  • Negative Highlight Icon No negative aspects were mentioned in the review.

The Journey

1

Royal Mile

Journey down Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. This vibrant street, steeped in history, offers a captivating blend of medieval architecture, hidden alleyways (known as closes), and bustling shops. Discover centuries of stories etched into its cobblestones, from royal processions to the everyday lives of Edinburgh's residents. Key attractions include St. Giles' Cathedral, the Scotch Whisky Experience, and numerous historic landmarks. Explore the narrow closes branching off the main street to uncover hidden gems and local tales.

2

Castle Hill

Ascend Castle Hill, the historic gateway to Edinburgh Castle, and delve into a captivating warren of alleyways and gardens. Explore Castle Wynd, Ramsay Gardens with its unique architecture and panoramic views, and Boswell's Court, each whispering tales of Edinburgh's past. Discover the unique character of this elevated enclave, offering stunning vistas and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. These closes and gardens offer quiet escapes from the bustling Royal Mile.

3

Lawnmarket

Wander through the Lawnmarket, the second section of the Royal Mile, once a vibrant marketplace. Explore historic closes like Riddle's Close, rumored to be haunted; Brodie's Close, associated with the infamous Deacon Brodie; and Lady Stair's Close, home to the Writers' Museum. Discover the literary heart of Edinburgh and uncover the stories of its most notorious figures in these atmospheric alleyways. Imagine the hustle and bustle of the market days as you walk these historic streets.

4

High Street (Royal Mile)

Explore the High Street, the central artery of the Royal Mile, where history unfolds at every turn. Discover hidden alleyways like Byre's Close, Old Fishmarket Close, and Covenant's Close, each with its own unique story. Admire iconic landmarks such as St Giles' Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, and the City Chambers (City Hall), the seat of Edinburgh's local government. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and witness the blend of past and present that defines Edinburgh's character.

5

Canongate

Conclude your Royal Mile journey in Canongate, the final section leading to Holyrood Palace. Explore historic closes such as Bakehouse Close, South Gray's Close, and White Horse Close, each revealing a glimpse into Edinburgh's past. Discover the area's distinct character, separate from the Old Town, as you stroll towards the Scottish Parliament, a modern architectural marvel, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Experience the rich tapestry of Edinburgh's history and culture.

Know Before You Go

The Edinburgh Royal Mile Alleyway Tour includes a two-and-a-half-hour guided walking tour. It does not include any personal expenses. Make sure to meet your guide at the designated meeting point to begin exploring the hidden gems and gardens along the Royal Mile.

Hot Tip

Past visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. They also suggest coming prepared to listen to stories and be amazed by the guide's enthusiasm for Edinburgh's history.

From £16 Price

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