The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh

The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh offers a unique way to explore the historic Old Town while enjoying the wit of a professional comedian. Priced at $32.94 per person, this 2-hour walking tour features a local guide who is also a stand-up comedian, guaranteed to make you laugh and learn about Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks. The tour departs from the Monkey Barrel Comedy club on Blair Street and ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard, covering key sites along the way.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a good laugh mixed with cultural insights. With a rating of 5.0 based on 1,595 reviews and a recommended rate of 99%, it clearly appeals to a wide audience. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring an engaging experience, and the most bookings happen 30 days in advance. Keep in mind that this tour is strictly for ages 16 and over and involves walking on uneven paths, so comfortable footwear is advised.

Key Points

• Includes a professional comedian guide with a background in Scottish history
• Highlights the Old Town’s key sites such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Greyfriars
• Offers a lively, humorous approach to Edinburgh’s history and culture
• Tour duration is approximately 2 hours with a flexible itinerary in the Old Town
• Ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard, famous for its history and ghost stories
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting at Monkey Barrel Comedy for a Fun Introduction

The tour begins at Monkey Barrel Comedy, a well-known comedy club on Blair Street. Here, the guide introduces themselves, teaches some Scottish vocabulary, and prepares everyone for the humorous journey ahead. This initial stage sets the tone with a mix of lighthearted banter and cultural tidbits. Participants should note that admission to the comedy club is not included in the ticket price, but the fun starts right from the meeting point.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with Laughter

From Monkey Barrel, the group heads onto Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the city’s most recognizable street. This 10-minute stop highlights the street’s significance as a hub of history, commerce, and culture. As the guide shares stories, expect a comic twist, adding a playful edge to the iconic landmarks and bustling atmosphere along this historic route.

The Historical Mercat Cross and Royal Proclamations

Next, the tour visits the Mercat Cross, where medieval trade, royal proclamations, and even punishments once took place. This 10-minute stop reveals Edinburgh’s vibrant past, with the guide offering amusing anecdotes about the location’s role in royal justice. It’s a good chance to ask questions, while enjoying the humorous narrative.

St Giles’ Cathedral and the Reformation

The group then proceeds to St Giles’ Cathedral, considered the most important religious site in the Old Town. The guide explains its significance during the Reformation and points out the resting places of notable figures such as the ‘Great Montrose’. With a 10-minute visit, the tour combines historical facts with lively storytelling and witty commentary.

Edinburgh’s Literary Heritage at the Writers’ Museum

Outside the Writers’ Museum, the guide offers a humorous take on Edinburgh’s literary giants, including Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. This 10-minute stop gives a taste of the city’s rich literary culture, infused with comedic insights. It’s a perfect moment for fans of Scottish or world literature to see Edinburgh from a playful perspective.

The Magnificence of Edinburgh Castle

The tour makes a 10-minute stop at Edinburgh Castle, offering a panoramic view over the city’s south side. The guide shares a daring story about Sir Thomas Randolph’s raid of the castle in 1314, blending history with humor. Though the castle’s entrance is not included, this viewpoint provides excellent photo opportunities and a lively description of Edinburgh’s medieval defenses.

The Bustling Grassmarket

Next, the group visits Grassmarket, once notorious as Edinburgh’s center of law and disorder. This lively marketplace was the site of public executions, and the guide’s anecdotes make the history engaging and entertaining. A 10-minute walk through this area offers a lively atmosphere filled with stories of justice, rebellion, and the city’s gritty past.

Greyfriars Kirkyard and Ghost Stories

The final stop is Greyfriars Kirkyard, renowned for its ghost stories, tales of Edinburgh’s bodysnatchers, and the legendary dog Greyfriars Bobby. Over 15 minutes, the guide shares grisly stories and fun facts about the graveyard’s history, peppered with humor that keeps the mood lively. This stop provides a fitting conclusion, combining spooky legends with a comedic twist.

The Guide’s Style and Audience Engagement

Throughout the tour, the guide is a Scotsman in a kilt, blending expertise with comedic flair. Reviews praise the guide’s knowledge of Scottish history, with some stating he holds a Master’s degree in Scottish history. His wit, lively banter, and ability to engage with the group make the experience both educational and fun. The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with fast-paced humor and uneven pathways.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour departs from Monkey Barrel Comedy at 9-12 Blair Street and ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard, with the route subject to change. It involves walking on uneven paths and steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The group size is limited to 20 people, ensuring an interactive atmosphere. For those with service animals, they are allowed, and the tour is accessible for most travelers.

Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Info

Reservations are highly recommended, with most bookings made around 30 days in advance. The tour is refundable if canceled at least 24 hours prior to the start time, and weather cancellations are handled with options for rescheduling or full refunds. The experience is designed for ages 16 and over and involves moderate walking.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Edinburgh

What makes the Mountebank Comedy Walk a standout is its combination of humor and history. The professional comedian guide transforms a sightseeing walk into an entertaining storytelling session. Unlike typical tours, this experience emphasizes laughter, candid anecdotes, and lively commentary, making Edinburgh’s landmarks memorable in a fun way.

The value for money is evident, especially considering the high praise in reviews for the guide’s knowledge, wit, and personable style. The 2-hour duration offers a relaxed pace, allowing time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The tour particularly appeals to people who appreciate humor infused with factual storytelling and who enjoy lively, informal atmospheres.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This experience suits adults and older teens who are open to playful humor, self-deprecating jokes, and interactive storytelling. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic local guide with a knack for comedy and a deep understanding of Scottish history. The tour is also ideal for visitors seeking a lighthearted, memorable introduction to Edinburgh’s Old Town, especially if they prefer a casual, social atmosphere over more formal guided visits.

Final Thoughts on the Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh

For anyone wanting to see Edinburgh through a lively, humorous lens, this tour offers a refreshing balance of facts and fun. The expert guide’s wit and knowledge keep the group engaged, while the iconic sites provide a backdrop for stories that stick. The price point makes it accessible, and the positive reviews attest to its quality and entertainment value.

While the tour does not include entry to sites like Edinburgh Castle or Greyfriars Kirkyard, the viewpoints and stories compensate by offering a rich, entertaining experience. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors or anyone eager to discover Edinburgh’s history with a smile on their face.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Mountebank Comedy Walk?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key sights in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Monkey Barrel Comedy on Blair Street and ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the experience is strictly for ages 16 and over due to language and content.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are recommended, often made around 30 days ahead, to secure a spot.

Are admission tickets to attractions included?
No, the tour does not include entry to sites like Edinburgh Castle or Greyfriars.

Is there any physical difficulty involved?
Some walking on uneven paths and steps is involved, so comfortable footwear is suggested.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What makes this tour different from other Edinburgh walks?
The combination of professional comedy, local Scottish humor, and dynamic storytelling sets this tour apart from more traditional sightseeing options.