Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour

Edinburgh’s Old Town is a captivating destination steeped in rich history. This guided walking tour provides visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s past, exploring iconic landmarks and uncovering the stories that have shaped its UNESCO World Heritage status. From St. Giles Cathedral to the enchanting Greyfriars Cemetery, the tour promises a personalized adventure led by professional guides. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and insightful look into Edinburgh’s vibrant heritage. But what secrets might these ancient streets and landmarks hold, waiting to be discovered?

Good To Know

• The 2-hour guided walking tour explores historical landmarks in Edinburgh’s Old Town, including St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, and Greyfriars Cemetery.
• The tour is led by professional guides and provides insights into Edinburgh’s rich 3000-year history, from the Picts to the present day.
• Greyfriars Cemetery, a key highlight, is known for its mysteries and connections to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels.
• The tour includes a free admission ticket and starts at 10:30 am from a central location, Advocates Close.
• The tour concludes at the historically significant Greyfriars Kirkyard and accommodates up to 30 travelers, with a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence.

Tour Overview

The Edinburgh Old Town Historical Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history. Located in Edinburgh, Scotland, this highly-rated tour lasts 2 hours and accommodates up to 30 travelers.

With a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence, the tour provides a free admission ticket, led by professional guides. Guests will discover the city’s significant landmarks, from St. Giles Cathedral to Edinburgh Castle, while strolling through the iconic Royal Mile and Victoria Street.

The tour also includes a visit to Greyfriars Cemetery, known for its paranormal mysteries and connections to the Harry Potter series. Reviews praise the tour’s informative and entertaining nature, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Historical Significance

Edinburgh’s history spans over 3000 years, from the Picts to modern times. This tour explores the city’s rich heritage, showcasing key sites like St. Giles Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle.

Visitors will walk through the Royal Mile and Victoria Street, seeing the city’s past. One notable stop is Greyfriars Cemetery, known for its mysteries, legends, and paranormal activity.

In fact, this cemetery served as inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels. The tour provides a comprehensive look at Edinburgh’s evolution, offering:

1. Insights into the city’s historical significance
2. Connections to famous literary works
3. Exploration of landmarks and hidden gems.

Key Highlights

Visitors on the Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour can expect to explore a wealth of historical landmarks and hidden gems throughout the city’s iconic Royal Mile and beyond.

The tour takes guests to St. Giles Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic church dating back to the 12th century. They’ll also visit Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an imposing volcanic rock, which has been a fortified residence for Scottish monarchs for centuries.

Along the way, the tour explores the Greyfriars Cemetery, where the famous Greyfriars Bobby is buried and where J.K. Rowling found inspiration for her Harry Potter series.

With a professional guide leading the way, travelers will uncover the fascinating history and mysteries that have shaped Edinburgh’s Old Town over the past 3,000 years.

Meeting and Ending Points

The guided tour begins at the front of Advocates Close, across from the iconic St. Giles’ Cathedral on the High Street.

This central location is an ideal starting point to explore Edinburgh’s Old Town. The tour then winds its way through the historic streets, culminating at the Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery.

Some key details about the meeting and ending points:

1. Meeting Point: 351 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1PW, UK
2. End Point: Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, 26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QQ, UK
3. Start Time: 10:30 am

This ensures a comprehensive journey through Edinburgh’s rich heritage, from the heart of the Old Town to the renowned Greyfriars Kirkyard, where the tour concludes.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes a professional guide who leads participants through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, providing food and drinks, as well as gratuities. The tour also includes:

Inclusions	Details
Guide	Professional guide
Food & Drinks	Provided
Gratuities	Included
Duration	2 hours
Max Participants	30 travelers

Participants will meet at the front of Advocates Close, across from St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the tour will conclude at the picturesque Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, known for its historical significance and paranormal activity.

Accessibility and Participation

The Old Town Walking Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted.

Infant seats are available for those bringing young children. Most travelers can participate in the tour, though it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Key accessibility points include:

1. Not wheelchair accessible
2. Service animals allowed
3. Infant seats available

Customer Feedback

Numerous positive reviews highlight the tour’s informative and entertaining nature.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable and humorous guide, Urs, who provides detailed storytelling and unique insights into Edinburgh’s rich history.

With 122 five-star ratings and only one four-star review, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence, reflecting its consistently high customer satisfaction.

Reviewers appreciate the tour’s ability to bring the city’s past to life, from the Picts to modern times, and its connection to the Harry Potter series.

Booking and Cancellation

To book the Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour, travelers can simply select their preferred date and time on the tour’s online platform.

Once booked, you will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for those with changing plans.

Key details regarding booking and cancellation include:

1. Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
2. Confirmation received at the time of booking.
3. Meeting point and end location clearly specified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the information provided, the tour includes food and drinks. Participants are not explicitly allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages, so it’s best to check with the tour operator before the tour.

Is the Guide Available to Answer Additional Questions After the Tour?

The tour guide is typically available after the tour to answer additional questions. Participants can approach the guide and engage in further discussion about the sites, history, and any other topics covered during the walking tour.

How Often Do the Tour Times Change Throughout the Year?

The tour times generally remain consistent throughout the year, with the standard start time being 10:30 am. However, it’s recommended to check the tour schedule before booking as occasional changes may occur during peak or holiday seasons.

Are Photographs Allowed to Be Taken During the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour. However, the guide may request that participants refrain from photographing in certain sensitive areas or out of respect for other travelers’ experiences.

Is There a Discounted Rate for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer a discounted rate for students or seniors. Admission is free for all participants, regardless of age or student status. The tour is open to the general public at a flat rate.

The Sum Up

The Edinburgh Old Town guided walking tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history. Led by knowledgeable guides, visitors can enjoy iconic landmarks and uncover the stories that have inspired literary greats. With free admission and a personalized experience, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore Edinburgh’s vibrant past and UNESCO-protected heritage.