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Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh
Historical Tours 3 hours 4.9 · 1,451 reviews Offered in: English

Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh

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Overview

This guided walk with our unique guides, Stuart Usher or his son, Richard Usher, will entertain and enthral you. Also we are delighted to introduce two new guides; Dr Alison Duncan and David Forsyth, who are both professional historians and Edinburgh experts.

We limit the tour to 12 guests so everyone is involved (unlike those many tours of 30, 40 or even more!)

Stuart's family has historic connections with Edinburgh (Stuart's great-great Uncle, Andrew Usher, donated the magnificent Usher Hall to the city . Andrew was also known as the 'father of the scotch whisky blending industry').

Their deep knowledge of the cultural, historical and architectural aspects of the city means they have a unique perspective on our wonderful capital.

Your guides will show you the cultural treasures of Edinburgh, the secrets of its past and its famous characters, and are rightly renowned for their entertaining and witty commentary.

  • Recommended by 98% of travelers
  • Badge of Excellence
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
  • Mobile ticket

What's included

Small group (maximum 12 participants)

Professional guide

Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Travelers meet at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you outside the central entrance of the Usher Hall (there are 3 entrances and he will be outside the middle one).

End point

The ending point is at the Scott Monument in East Princes Street Gardens.

What to expect

  1. Usher Hall

    10 min

    View this Baroque "Beaux Arts" masterpiece in the Heart of Edinburgh, the Usher Hall. Donated to the people and the City of Edinburgh by Stuart Usher's great great uncle, Andrew Usher.

  2. Edinburgh Castle

    35 min

    Behold and view (from the outside) the towering, majestic pile of Edinburgh Castle from various vantage points. Learn all about its history (good, bad and downright ugly), the Scottish Wars of Independence, the Stuart dynasty, the Union of the Crowns and much more!

  3. Grassmarket

    15 min

    Enter and visit this centuries-old area that served as the Medieval Marketplace of the City. Also see George Heriot School (the inspiration behind Hogwarts!).

  4. Milne’s Court

    10 min

    Come and visit this fascinating court where you can see and hear how people lived in the 17th and 18th centuries.

  5. Jolly Judge

    10 min

    See classic examples of Edinburgh's Old Town tenement buildings in James Court. Also see the quirky and charismatic Jolly Judge pub.

  6. Writers' Museum

    20 min

    This museum showcases the best of Scotland's literary heroes, past and present. Guests can visit inside should they wish.

  7. Riddle's Court

    10 min

    See the exterior of the home of the philosopher David Hume, the 'Father of the Scottish Enlightenment' as well as other Scottish notables.

  8. Deacon Brodie's Tavern

    20 min

    Learn about the life of the blackguard, Deacon Brodie, the real-life character behind 'Jekyll and Hyde'.

  9. St Giles' Cathedral

    20 min

    View this magnificent cathedral from the outside and learn about its pivotal history during the middle ages and reformation periods.

  10. Edinburgh City Chambers

    10 min

    See the highlights of this busy heart of the Royal Mile which includes the City Chambers, Mercat Cross and other sites of interest.

  11. Edinburgh Waverley Station

    10 min

    Cross one of the first bridges to connect the Old & New Towns of Edinburgh, leading to Princes Street Gardens.

  12. Scott Monument

    10 min

    See this towering landmark which delineates the separation of the Old and New Towns (both of which are Unesco world heritage sites).

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

Times are local to the experience (Europe/London).

Additional Information

  • Children 12-16 pay 75%
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
  • Up to 10 travelers per booking
  • Each booking must include at least one adult.

FAQs about Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Can I cancel Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh for free?

Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

How long does it take?

It takes about 3 hours.

Where does it start?

Your guide will be waiting for you outside the central entrance of the Usher Hall (there are 3 entrances and he will be outside the middle one).

What's included?

  • Small group (maximum 12 participants)
  • Professional guide

What's not included?

  • Gratuities

Which places does it visit?

It visits Usher Hall, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, Milne’s Court, Jolly Judge, Writers' Museum, Riddle's Court, Deacon Brodie's Tavern.

Which languages is it offered in?

It is offered in English.

Is it suitable for children?

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Operated by Edinburgh Guided Tour

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