Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour

The Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour offers a compelling and affordable way to explore Scotland’s capital. Priced at $24.84 per person, this 2-hour guided walk takes you through the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. With a maximum group size of 15, it promises a more intimate experience, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tours. The tour departs from 132 Princes St and concludes near the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, providing easy access via public transportation.

This tour is highly recommended, with a rating of 5.0 based on 149 reviews and 99% of participants suggesting they would recommend it. Reviewers praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and the opportunity to see both top attractions and lesser-known spots. The tour’s flexible, small-group approach makes it a great choice for history enthusiasts keen to learn about Edinburgh’s past without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

While most of the stops are free, a notable exception is St Giles’ Cathedral, which is explored from the outside, as an admission fee is not included. The tour ends on the Royal Mile, providing a convenient location for further exploration or resting afterward. The walking pace is manageable, and the group size ensures personalized attention and opportunities to ask questions.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated: Priced at $24.84, with a perfect 5.0 rating from numerous reviews.
• Small-group experience: Limited to 15 guests, promoting a more personalized and engaging tour.
• Focus on history and stories: Guides tell captivating tales about Edinburgh’s landmarks and people.
• Major highlights include: the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard, Grassmarket, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Princes Street Gardens.
• Two-hour duration: Offers a manageable introduction to Edinburgh’s Old Town, ideal for first-time visitors.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Guides praised for knowledge: Guides like Kieran, David, Katie, and Madge consistently receive high praise for their storytelling and friendliness.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town

The tour begins at 132 Princes St, a central starting point in Edinburgh’s bustling shopping and sightseeing district. Travelers are greeted by guides who lead the group on a 2-hour walk through Edinburgh’s most storied areas. From the outset, the tour emphasizes history and storytelling, with guides sharing tales that bring the city’s past to life.

The Royal Mile serves as the route’s backbone, where the group explores buildings dating back to the 1400s. Visitors learn about the major events that shaped the area, creating a vivid picture of Edinburgh’s medieval past. The walk ends here, allowing participants to further explore at their own pace.

Discovering Greyfriars Kirkyard and its Legends

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard, the city’s famous graveyard. This site is not only known for its atmospheric gravestones but also for inspiring authors like Mary Shelley and J.K. Rowling. The discussion around Greyfriars includes stories of medical science contributions and loyal dogs, adding depth to this historic site.

The 20-minute stop provides a chance to see some of the most notable graves and hear about the legends associated with them. The guide’s engaging storytelling makes this stop particularly memorable, emphasizing its cultural and literary significance.

Exploring the Grassmarket and its Dark Past

Next, the tour passes through Grassmarket, a lively area known for its historic pubs and market stalls. This area is connected to edgy stories of hangings and body snatchers, giving the group insights into Edinburgh’s gruesome medieval history. Visitors also enjoy the best view of Edinburgh Castle from this vantage point.

A 15-minute walk in Grassmarket allows for photos and quick explorations, with the guide sharing stories that add context to the lively surroundings. It’s a great spot to appreciate Edinburgh’s dark past and vibrant present.

Inside and Outside St Giles’ Cathedral

The tour includes a walk around St Giles’ Cathedral, focusing on its architecture and historic importance. While admission to the interior is not included, the exterior visit provides an appreciation of its Gothic design and religious history. The guide explains its role in Edinburgh’s history and its architectural features, enriching understanding without the need for entry.

This stop allows visitors to appreciate the exterior details and pose questions about the cathedral’s significance in Scottish history.

Walking Through Edinburgh’s Old Town

The core of the tour is a thorough walk through the Old Town, where visitors see hidden corners and learn about everyday life in historic Edinburgh. The guide shares stories about notorious characters, local customs, and famous residents that shaped the city’s character.

The two-hour exploration ensures a rundown, making it ideal for first-timers or those wanting a structured introduction before venturing further.

Visiting Princes Street Gardens and Medieval History

The tour begins at Princes Street Gardens, where the group learns about Edinburgh’s medieval history. This 20-minute segment uncovers gruesome stories from the past, adding darker layers to the city’s history. The gardens also offer great photo opportunities of the Castle and the city skyline.

This part of the tour balances history and scenic views, giving a well-rounded picture of Edinburgh’s past and present.

Meeting Points and Tour End

The tour starts at the Statue of Sir James Young Simpson on Princes Street, a known city landmark. It finishes nearby at the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic on High Street, close to many cafes, shops, and further attractions. The convenient locations make it easy to continue exploring after the tour.

The small group size and central meeting points ensure a smooth experience, especially for those arriving via public transportation or staying in the city center.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The small-group format is a major advantage, ensuring a personalized experience and better interaction with guides. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling skills, with several reviews highlighting Kieran, David, Katie, and Madge.

Another strength is the balance between top attractions and hidden gems, like Greyfriars and Grassmarket, providing a richer picture of Edinburgh’s history. The tour’s affordable price point combined with its quality reviews makes it a great value for those interested in Scottish history and Edinburgh’s stories.

Considerations and Practical Tips

This tour involves walking on cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Since the tour is outdoors and covers historic sites, dressing appropriately for the weather is essential. The admission to St Giles’ Cathedral is not included, but the exterior visit offers plenty of visual interest.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. Service animals are permitted, and travelers should plan to arrive at the starting point on time to ensure smooth participation.

Edinburgh: History Lovers Old Town Walking Tour – Final Words

This tour offers a rich, engaging overview of Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending top sights with hidden stories. Its small-group size guarantees a personalized experience, making it particularly appealing for history enthusiasts and those seeking a more intimate exploration of the city’s past.

While it balances informative storytelling with casual walking, the two-hour pace is manageable for most, providing a thorough introduction without feeling rushed. The affordable price paired with excellent reviews confirms its status as a smart choice for visitors wanting to understand Edinburgh’s complex history in a friendly setting.

This tour is well-suited for first-time visitors or anyone eager to connect with Edinburgh’s heritage through lively storytelling and scenic walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and its manageable pace makes it suitable for families with children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is often booked about 43 days in advance and is highly recommended to secure a spot.

What is the tour price?
The standard price is $24.84 per person, offering good value for the length and depth of the experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the Statue of Sir James Young Simpson on Princes Street and finishes near the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic on High Street.

Are admission fees included for places like St Giles’ Cathedral?
No, the tour does not include interior admission to St Giles’ Cathedral, which is explored from the outside.

How long does the tour last?
The walking part lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key sights and stories in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

What makes this tour different from other Edinburgh sightseeing options?
Its small-group size, highly praised guides, and focus on stories and hidden gems set it apart.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While specifics aren’t provided, the tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and outdoor sites, so mobility considerations should be planned accordingly.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since the tour is outdoors.