Viator Rating : 5 (229 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.8/10 (Verified Excellent)
Edinburgh
Edinburgh's Royal & Rogue History: Private Walking Tour
120
Overview
Private Old Edinburgh Tour: Walk in the Footsteps of Royals and Rogues! Step back in time and explore the hidden stories of Edinburgh's Old Town. This private walking tour takes you through the historic streets where Scottish royalty and infamous rogues once lived. See iconic landmarks like Greyfriars Kirkyard, Candlemaker Row, Grassmarket, the Royal Mile, The Cowgate, and the University of Edinburgh (Old College).
Follow a local guide, who will show you the city's most famous spots. Discover the history of Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and Deacon Brodie. Your guide will carry a book of archive images, so you can compare Edinburgh's past with its present-day look. This is a great way to learn about Edinburgh's history.
This private tour includes a local guide. Gratuities are not included. It's a memorable way to see Edinburgh. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (10 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Explore Edinburgh's Old Town: Walk the same streets as Scottish royalty and infamous rogues.
See Iconic Landmarks: Visit famous spots like Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Royal Mile.
Learn Fascinating History: Discover the stories of Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Enjoy a Private Tour: Get a personal experience with a local guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers say the tour guide is very knowledgeable and engaging.
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Many enjoyed seeing the historical sites and learning about Edinburgh's history.
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Some reviewers liked the personal touch of the private tour.
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Customers appreciate the guide's storytelling ability and enthusiasm.
Some found the walking to be tiring.
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A few reviewers wished for more time at certain locations.
The Journey
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Begin your Edinburgh adventure at Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic cemetery famed as the final resting place of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who captured hearts with his unwavering devotion. Explore the atmospheric grounds, steeped in history and legend, and decide for yourself which version of Bobby's touching story resonates most. Discover the secrets hidden within the weathered tombstones and ancient monuments of this iconic Edinburgh landmark.
Candlemaker Row and Grassmarket
Journey through Candlemaker Row and the Grassmarket, vibrant locales steeped in history and intrigue. Uncover the story of a pivotal Scottish wedding and its profound impact on Edinburgh. Retrace the steps of the pre-wedding celebrations while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of these historic streets. Imagine the bustling markets and clandestine gatherings that once defined the character of this captivating area.
Royal Mile
Traverse Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile, a thoroughfare teeming with history and captivating stories. Explore sites where Mary, Queen of Scots spent her childhood, discover a charming courtyard with royal connections, and delve into the bizarre tale of Deacon William Brodie, a respected citizen with a shocking double life that ended on the gallows. Witness a brief history of St Giles before visiting the site of the old Mercat Cross. Learn about Bonnie Prince Charlie's connection to the location. The Royal Mile offers a glimpse into Edinburgh's regal past and scandalous underbelly.
The Cowgate
Venture into the Cowgate, a historic street often overlooked, to experience a poignant glimpse into the lives of Edinburgh's Victorian poor. Discover the stark realities of poverty and resilience in this once-neglected district. Understand the social fabric and daily struggles of those who lived in the shadows of the city's grand facade.
University of Edinburgh (Old College)
Conclude your tour at the University of Edinburgh, a bastion of knowledge with a dark secret. Discover the chilling connection to Burke and Hare, the infamous murderers who preyed on the city's vulnerable. Unravel their gruesome methods and understand the social conditions that allowed their crimes to flourish. Reflect on the fate that ultimately befell them near the grand Old College, a place of learning concealing a macabre past. Your final stop takes place near to Old College (or, if it's open to us, inside Old College). This is possibly one of the most fascinating places on our tour. It looks incredible now...but the story we share is even more explosive. Literally!
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes a local guide who will lead you through Edinburgh's historic Old Town. Gratuities are not included in the tour price. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point; specific details will be provided after booking.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a good amount of walking. Also, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as Edinburgh weather can be unpredictable.
Review Summary
People find this tour highly engaging and educational, particularly praising guide Robert's expertise, personable demeanor, and use of archive images to illustrate how Edinburgh has transformed over centuries. Travelers consistently highlight that the private nature of the tour allows for personalized attention and the ability to explore lesser-known historical details, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking authentic local insights into the city's royal and rogueish past.
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