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Edinburgh Old Town - Castle and Palace
Start to explore the centre of Edinburgh from its majestic castle - learn about its long and distinguished history and enjoy the views from inside. From there we will take a stroll down the "Royal Mile" passing by centuries of history. Once everybody lived together on or close to this historic street and I will show you where famous economists, philosophers and writers rubbed shoulders. We will end up in Scotland's royal palace - Holyrood where the Royal Family still visits every summer.
Meeting Point
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
This is the starting point of out tour. Edinburgh Castle has in one form or another been here for over a millennium and many Scottish monarchs have lived here including Mary, Queen of Scots who gave birth here. The castle has been a strategic stronghold with many armies trying (and mostly failing!) to conquer it. Learn about the oldest building here - St. Margaret's Chapel and the castle's later use as a prison to house American prisoners. The views are stunning so make sure you take lots of photos! After my introduction there will be time to explore the castle and have a coffee.
Top of Royal Mile
We will walk down the "Royal Mile" hearing about the tales of famous people who lived here as well as discovering what life was like for ordinary people in what was a very crowded medieval city. We, then, enter St. Giles Cathedral and hear about the momentous historical events that have taken place in the very heart of Edinburgh.
Royal Mile
After lunch we will continue walking down the lower part of the "Old Town" - passing by John Knox's House - the father of the Scottish Reformation as well as going down some "closes" - (narrow alleys) and finding out about who lived here. These centuries-old places have also been used for modern day films and series like "Outlander"
Holyrood Palace
Visit to Holyrood Palace. This is Scotland's principal royal residence which has seen centuries of intrigue and occasional bloodshed! Learn more about this celebrated palace and the Royal Family who still visits here for a week to conduct royal duties in Scotland. Also enjoy a walk around the gardens where views of the magnificent park and Arthur's Seat (Edinburgh's highest point) can be seen.
End of the tour
Ending Point
Holyrood Palace
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Inclusions & Exclusions
The Guide fee
Lunch not included
Admission to Edinburgh Castle (£19.50) and Holyrood Palace (£18.00)
Tour Important Information
Good walking shoes required and a rainproof jacket (it's not always sunny!)
Important message from the guide
I can guide you anywhere in Scotland if you pay my transportation fee
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Edinburgh Tour Reviews
“Alan - 7/14”
Knowledgeable friendly we had a very enjoyable time walking thru Edinburgh.
