• Adam Smith Statue - The tour kicks off with a visit to the Adam Smith statue, a central figure in Edinburgh’s intellectual golden age. The tour will explore his life and career. Discover the unusual medical advice given for his teenage psychological crisis!
• Deacon Brodie’s Tavern - As we pass this historic tavern, we’ll delve into the tale of Edinburgh’s most notorious criminal, who inspired local author Robert Louis Stevenson to create one of literature’s most iconic characters.
• Lawnmarket - As we make our way up the street and through its back courts, we’ll share stories of the street’s rich history and the fascinating characters who brought it to life, including Weir the Wizard, the Bowhead Saints, Lady Stair, Lord Newton, Patrick Geddes, and the legendary Rabbie Burns.
• Castlehill - In the uppermost part of the Royal Mile, we’ll hear about the time the esteemed literary critic Dr. Johnson spent in Edinburgh, learn how the city resolved its water crisis in 1674, and pass by the former palace of Marie de Guise, mother of the iconic Mary, Queen of Scots.
• Edinburgh Castle Esplanade - If annual construction allows, we’ll visit the ‘top of the town’—a spacious plaza with the magnificent Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop. Here, we’ll gaze across the Lothians and Fife and hear stories of King James VI, Allan Ramsay, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. We’ll also learn about the activities Edinburgh youth engaged in on Saturday afternoons before sports were invented!

• Tour guiding services

For those who enjoy a deeper and more unique historical experience, these new walking tours of the Royal Mile could be ideal!

With over six years of continuous five-star reviews for his private tours, Dr. Moray Grigor is excited to introduce you to the fascinating and unusual history of Scotland’s capital. He will share traditional stories of the Royal Mile, highlighting its historic events and notable figures.

During the Monday tour of the uppermost section of the street, participants will learn about inebriated judges, eccentric clubs, religious zealots, rebellious women, misinformation, philosophers, sieges, and even the tale of a pet blackbird’s arrest! If annual building works allow, the tour will also include views from the Castle Esplanade.

Enjoy the sounds of Scots and Gaelic poetry and song (with translations), and stories that will ignite the imagination and bring history to life.

Experience the dedication, attention to detail, and warm Edinburgh hospitality that have earned six years of uninterrupted five-star ratings!

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