We start in Edinburgh's New Town and wander along the wide boulevards, learning about the history , architecture and some of characters connected with it. Leaving the New Town , we cross over to a completely different world in Edinburgh's old town. We discover alley ways and hear the tales that accompany them - tales of intrigue and murder (sometimes)! From the Castle, we stroll down the Royal Mile to reach Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the Queen.
At your hotel
We will meet in your hotel or accommodation and head by foot or by public transport to our starting point, Charlotte Square, a wonderful example of Georgian architecture.
We will look at the magnificent buildings, discover where Alexander Graham Bell (inventor of the telephone) was born and where the First Minister of Scotland has her official residence. In addition we will talk about the building of Edinburgh's New Town and what life was like for the upper classes in the mid 18th , early 19th centuries.
We'll stroll along George Street admiring the many statues, including the iconic statue of King George IV. We'll catch our first glimpse of Edinburgh Castle before continuing to St Andrew's Square where we'll hear about Henry Dundas and visit his former mansion.
We'll reach bustling Princes street and discover many fascinating buildings, including the Scott Monument and the Balmoral Hotel. We'll get our first glimpse of the high rise apartments of Edinburgh's old town.
We'll walk past Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Waverley railway station and climb the steps towards the cobbled streets of the old town. Still vibrant and bustling, we will experience a completely different atmosphere. If you wish, we can visit Edinburgh Castle.(You must let me know in advance so that tickets can be purchased. Please note that these are not included in the cost of the tour). Inside the castle, we'll discover the royal residences as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels and the famous stone of destiny.
I can suggest various options to suit all tastes.
Let's walk down the Royal Mile in the direction of Holyrood Palace , residence of Her Majesty the Queen. We'll make several stops on the way.
Let's hear about its royal connections, about the importance role of Patrick Geddes. As we leave, we'll stop and admire Gladstone's Land, a fine example of a merchant's house before continuing our walk down towards the Palace. We'll hear about Deacon Brodie and David Hume and the era of the Scottish Enlightment.
Discover a little about the Scottish reformation and hear about some of the history of this magnificent building.
There will be time for a quick visit to the cathedral.
Let's continue our walk down the Royal Mile. Why is it so called? We'll pass the Mercat Cross, John Knox's house and the World's End and find out about these important places. We'll discover specialist shops and museums you can return to, before reaching the Canongate Kirk, the church frequented by her Majesty when she visits Edinburgh.
Finally, we'll reach the royal palace and see the Scottish Parliament buildings. Behind is the vast expanse of Holyrood park and Arthur's Seat. It is unlikely that we will be able to fit in a visit to the Palace, but you can either return or choose to visit this, as a group , in place of the castle in the morning.
End of tour at your accommodation or at another place according to your wishes.
At your hotel
Guide fee.
Lunch, Coffee, Entrance fees
All year . Any day.
This is a walking tour, so good walking shoes should be worn. We will make regular stops. It is advisable to bring an umbrella or a waterproof garment, depending on the weather forecast.
Entrance fees to the Castle and/or Palace are not included. These must be booked in advance. Please let me know, if you wish to visit these.
Shopping time can be included, if desired.
The tour can be altered to suit the interests of the group. Please ask me in advance.