A Funny History of Edinburgh Walking Tour: With A Comedian

Discover Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with a Comedian Guide

The A Funny History of Edinburgh Walking Tour offers a unique way to explore Scotland’s capital. Priced at an accessible level, this 2-hour guided walk is led by Ross Leslie, a five-time Scottish Comedian of the Year finalist. Known for blending humor with history, Ross takes visitors from the top of the Royal Mile near Edinburgh Castle to the majestic Holyrood Palace, covering key landmarks and stories along the way.

What sets this tour apart is the lighthearted approach to Edinburgh’s storied past. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy history with a dose of comedy, making even the darkest tales engaging and memorable. The tour is suitable for all ages, and the live English-speaking guide ensures a personable experience, with wheelchair accessibility enhancing inclusivity.

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Key Points

• Lighthearted Edinburgh history: Humor and storytelling are central throughout the 2-hour walk.
• Start at Edinburgh Castle: The tour begins next to the longest occupied fortress in Scotland.
• Visit iconic sites: Stops include Lawnmarket, the Writers’ Museum, John Knox House Museum, Canongate Kirkyard, and Holyrood Palace.
• Storytelling with a comedian: Ross Leslie combines comedy with engaging tales of battles, royals, and remarkable Scots.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; pay later to keep plans open.
• Comfortable and practical: Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the walking segments.

Starting Point at Ramsay Lane and Edinburgh Castle

The tour kicks off at 87 Ramsay Lane, a central and easy-to-find meeting point in the Old Town. From there, the guide leads you through Edinburgh’s historic streets, with a brief 10-minute visit to Edinburgh Castle, where you can admire the fortress dominating the skyline and learn about its long history. The castle visit provides context for the stories of battles and royal power that follow.

This starting stop sets the tone for an engaging walk filled with breathtaking views of the city and a dose of Scottish history delivered with humor. The walk from Edinburgh Castle down the Royal Mile offers a seamless blend of sights and stories, making it a great introduction to the city’s most famous street.

Exploring Lawnmarket and the Writers’ Museum

The Lawnmarket stop lasts about 10 minutes, offering a closer look at one of the oldest parts of Edinburgh’s historic shopping streets. Here, the guide highlights stories of power, commerce, and notable figures connected to the area.

Next, the Writers’ Museum provides an insight into Edinburgh’s literary heritage. While details of the museum visit are brief, the guide’s storytelling spices up the experience, making the history of famous Scottish writers lively and amusing. This stop emphasizes the city’s cultural vibrancy alongside its historical significance.

Visiting John Knox House Museum and its Darker Tales

A 30-minute stop at the John Knox House Museum introduces visitors to one of the most historically significant buildings in Edinburgh. Known for its association with the Reformation leader John Knox, this site offers stories about religious upheaval, power struggles, and the city’s changing face.

Ross Leslie’s humorous approach makes the complex history accessible and entertaining, turning what could be a dry historical recount into a memorable experience. The museum’s architecture and stories provide a window into Edinburgh’s turbulent past, all with a cheerful twist.

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Canongate Kirkyard and Remarkable Scots

The 20-minute visit to Canongate Kirkyard reveals tales of notable Scots buried in this historic cemetery. Here, the guide shares stories of remarkable people, dark nights, and bright moments, all delivered with comedic flair. This stop offers an authentic glimpse into Edinburgh’s past residents and their stories, adding depth and personality to the tour.

Final Stop at Holyrood Palace

The tour culminates outside Holyrood Palace, the official royal residence in Edinburgh. Spending about 30 minutes here, visitors learn about the monarchy’s influence on the city and its history. The magnificent architecture and royal connections make this a fitting conclusion to the lively exploration.

Ross Leslie’s storytelling continues here, blending humor with history, leaving a cheerful impression of Edinburgh’s royal heritage. The Holyrood Palace visit provides a satisfying endpoint, with panoramic views and stories that bring the city’s regal past to life.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Booking

The meeting point is at 87 Ramsay Lane, where you will meet your guide—described as a 6-foot-1, ginger-bearded Edinburgh native. The tour is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair accessibility available, and requires participants to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

The tour operates with flexible options: you can reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans adaptable. It also includes a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, making it a risk-free choice for spontaneous plans.

The Guide: Ross Leslie, Scotland’s Funniest Historian

Ross Leslie, the main guide, brings a wealth of comedy and storytelling experience. His background as a five-time Scottish Comedian of the Year finalist ensures that history is told with energy, humor, and insight. His engaging style makes this tour particularly memorable, especially for those who appreciate a good laugh intertwined with learning.

Comparing Similar Edinburgh Experiences

This tour offers a more comedic and lighthearted alternative to other Edinburgh activities such as castle tours, ghost walks, or Harry Potter-themed walks. It provides a unique blend of humor, history, and local storytelling, making it a popular choice for visitors who want to laugh and learn at the same time.

Who Will Love This Tour

This family-friendly experience suits those who enjoy humor and interactive stories, regardless of age. The 2-hour duration keeps it manageable for most travelers, and the informal, lively style appeals to those seeking a relaxed yet informative exploration of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Final Thoughts on the Edinburgh Comedy History Walk

The A Funny History of Edinburgh Walking Tour offers a refreshing way to see the city. With Ross Leslie’s comedic flair, you’ll find stories of battles, royals, and remarkable people delivered with genuine warmth and wit. The stops at Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and historic cemeteries make it both educational and fun, perfect for those who want a memorable, laughter-filled introduction to Edinburgh.

Though the focus is on humor, the stories are rooted in real history, ensuring an informative experience. Its accessible location, flexible booking options, and engaging guide make this tour a standout for visitors seeking a lively, entertaining day in the Scottish capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, making it a fun family-friendly activity.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 2 hours with several stops along the Royal Mile.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 87 Ramsay Lane, next to Edinburgh Castle.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing for walking outside.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

Who is the guide?
The guide is Ross Leslie, a prominent Scottish comedian with a lively storytelling style.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of humor and history, along with a comedian guide, offers a fun and memorable way to explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Are the stories biased?
The guide shares stories with extreme bias in favor of Edinburgh’s remarkable past and people, making the experience lively and personal.

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