Edinburgh Self-Guided Walking Tour: Royal Mile Secrets
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Overview
Experience Edinburgh with a Self-Guided Walking Tour and discover the city's historic heart at your own pace. This tour uses WhatsApp to guide visitors along the Royal Mile, revealing famous places like the Scottish Parliament Building, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the peaceful Dunbar's Close Garden.
Explore hidden gems such as Bakehouse Close and the eerie Banshee Labyrinth, stepping back in time through the city's unique courtyards. Enjoy beautiful views from The Mound, admire The Royal Scottish Academy, and take in stunning sights from Carlton Hill and the North Viewpoint. Along the way, uncover fascinating stories and local tips that most tourists miss.
This self-guided tour includes a route past 16 beautiful locations, helpful tips for discovering hidden gems beyond the main path, and interesting information about each stop. A live guide is not included, allowing for a truly independent exploration.




Highlights
Explore at Your Own Pace: See Edinburgh's best spots on a self-guided tour via WhatsApp.
Discover Hidden Gems: Find secret courtyards and local favorites off the beaten path.
Learn Fascinating Stories: Hear interesting facts about each location along the Royal Mile.
See Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic sights from Carlton Hill and other viewpoints.
Sentiment Analysis
The self-guided walking tour is generally well-received, offering a flexible and informative way to explore Edinburgh's highlights and hidden corners. While some desire clearer guidance or a live guide, most appreciate the freedom and unique discoveries the tour provides.

Customers say the tour is a great way to see Edinburgh at their own pace.
Many enjoyed discovering hidden gems and local spots.
The tour is informative and provides interesting facts about the city's history.
Users appreciated the flexibility and convenience of the self-guided format.
Some users wished for clearer instructions at certain points.
A few found the lack of a live guide disappointing.
The Journey
Scottish Parliament Building
A bold statement of modern architecture at the foot of the Royal Mile, the Scottish Parliament Building sparks conversation with its unconventional design. Explore its exterior to contemplate how its shapes and materials symbolically represent Scotland's diverse landscapes and national identity. Take a guided tour for a deep dive into the building's purpose and inner workings.
Dunbar's Close Garden
Escape the Royal Mile's hustle in Dunbar's Close Garden, a hidden 17th-century-style courtyard offering a tranquil retreat. Wander through its meticulously recreated period garden, a serene oasis that transports you back in time. Discover the quiet charm of buildings that once housed stables and an inn, now a picturesque haven for reflection and relaxation.
Museum of Edinburgh
Delve into the rich history of Edinburgh at the Museum of Edinburgh, housed within a cluster of historic buildings. From fascinating artifacts to engaging displays, trace the city's evolution from its geological origins to its cultural zenith. Whether you have a quick moment or an afternoon to spare, the museum offers captivating glimpses into Edinburgh's past and present, including the story of Greyfriars Bobby.
Bakehouse Close
Step back in time within Bakehouse Close, a remarkably preserved 16th-century alleyway, famed for its historical architecture and appearances in popular TV series like Outlander. Wander through its atmospheric passage, capturing stunning photos amidst the medieval stone buildings and winding pathways. Feel the echoes of centuries past as you immerse yourself in this picturesque and historic location.
Canongate Kirk
Experience the simple yet elegant beauty of Canongate Kirk, a church with strong royal connections. Queen Elizabeth II worshipped here during her visits to Edinburgh. Admire the kirk's understated architecture, reflecting Scottish Presbyterian traditions, and consider the church's role in the community and its historical significance to the monarchy.
Canongate Kirkyard
Find peace and reflection in Canongate Kirkyard, the final resting place of notable figures, including the eminent economist Adam Smith. Stroll through this historic graveyard beside the Kirk, admiring the weathered tombstones and serene atmosphere. Reflect on the lives and legacies of those interred here, in this quiet and beautiful spot along the Royal Mile.
The Secret Garden (Canongate)
Discover a hidden sanctuary in the form of a 17th-century-style garden, tucked away behind the Canongate. This tranquil oasis, often simply known as the 'Secret Garden,' provides a perfect escape from the bustling crowds of the Royal Mile. Enjoy a quiet moment amidst lush greenery and meticulously designed landscapes, a truly restorative experience.
The Banshee Labyrinth
Venture into Scotland's most haunted pub, The Banshee Labyrinth, a gothic bar shrouded in mystery and eerie tales. Explore its atmospheric interior, with underground tunnels and a darkly inviting ambiance. Dare to peek inside and experience the spine-chilling history and ghostly legends that surround this iconic and chilling Edinburgh establishment.
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile, the historic heart of Edinburgh, connects the majestic Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Stroll along this iconic street, lined with shops, hidden closes, and centuries of captivating history. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and unravel the stories woven into the very stones of this bustling thoroughfare, the spine of any Edinburgh walking tour.
St. Giles' Cathedral
Witness the grandeur of St. Giles' Cathedral, a majestic medieval church and spiritual center of Edinburgh. Admire its iconic crown steeple and step inside to appreciate the stunning stained-glass windows and intricate stonework. Discover centuries of Scottish religious and political history within its walls, from John Knox's fiery sermons to modern-day services.
Know Before You Go
This self-guided walking tour includes a detailed route through Edinburgh, guiding visitors past 16 beautiful locations. It offers great tips for discovering hidden gems outside the main tourist areas and provides interesting information about each location. A live guide is not included, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Hot Tip
Many users recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a good amount of walking. Be sure to have your phone fully charged and bring headphones to easily listen to the tour's instructions and information as you explore.