Private Old Edinburgh Tour – Walk in the Footsteps of Royals and Rogues!

Explore Edinburgh’s captivating past on a private walking tour through the city’s historic Old Town. Retrace the footsteps of legendary figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie as you explore the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, known for its ornate tombs and the loyal Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Uncover the city’s dark history at former execution sites and the Tolbooth Prison, where you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s remarkable heritage and the enduring legacy of its most celebrated Scots. This immersive journey promises to transport you back in time and leave you captivated by the stories that have shaped the city.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Private Drivers In Edinburgh.

Key Points

• Explore Greyfriars Kirkyard, a hauntingly atmospheric graveyard with ornate tombs, memorials, and the story of the loyal Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby.
• Discover Edinburgh’s former execution sites, including the Grassmarket, Castlehill, and Mercat Cross, where Covenanters, Jacobites, heretics, and witches met their fate.
• Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s history, and learn about the triumphs and tragedies of renowned figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.
• Enjoy the rich history and architecture of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, encountering historic landmarks, hidden courtyards, and narrow alleyways.
• Uncover captivating tales of Scotland’s most celebrated figures, including Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and their impact on Scottish heritage.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic cemetery in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, serves as the starting point for the private walking tour. This atmospheric graveyard is known for its ornate tombs and memorials, which offer a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.

Visitors will learn about the notorious Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who famously guarded his master’s grave for 14 years. The tour then explores the darker side of the kirkyard’s history, including the Covenanters’ Prison, where religious dissenters were once held captive.

With its rich history and haunting ambiance, Greyfriars Kirkyard sets the stage for an immersive journey through Edinburgh’s captivating past.

Execution Sites and Tolbooth Prison

Edinburgh’s grim history as a site of execution is revealed through the tour’s exploration of several former execution sites. Nearby, the notorious Tolbooth Prison once held captive religious dissenters and political opponents, further highlighting the capital’s tumultuous past.

The tour takes visitors to three chilling execution sites, where individuals were hanged, beheaded, or burned at the stake for their perceived crimes. A visit to the site of the Tolbooth Prison, a notorious holding facility, provides a sobering glimpse into the city’s dark history.

Execution Site	Victims
Grassmarket	Covenanters, Jacobites
Castlehill	Heretics, Witches
Mercat Cross	Reformers, Traitors

The tour paints a vivid picture of Edinburgh’s past, where harsh punishments and political upheaval were a frequent occurrence.

Edinburgh Castle and Historical Figures

As the tour winds its way through the historic streets, it offers visitors a chance to explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s rich past. Towering over the city, the castle has witnessed the triumphs and tragedies of many renowned historical figures, from Mary Queen of Scots to Bonnie Prince Charlie, whose stories come to life through the guide’s captivating narratives.

Guests will learn about the castle’s strategic importance, its role in numerous battles, and the influential Scots who’ve walked its halls. With each step, the tour provides a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s remarkable history and the enduring legacy of its most celebrated personalities.

Private Walking Tour Details

The private walking tour through Edinburgh’s Old Town offers visitors a chance to explore the capital’s gory past, including infamous execution sites and the notorious Tolbooth Prison.

Ideal for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts, the tour lasts around 2 hours and takes guests on a journey through the UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Along the way, you’ll follow in the footsteps of important Scottish figures like Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

The tour also includes visits to three former execution sites, providing a glimpse into Edinburgh’s dark history.

Led by a local guide, the tour ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you can continue your exploration of the Old Town on your own.

Tour Inclusions and Meeting Point

On this private walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town, a local guide accompanies guests and provides gratuities. The meeting point is at Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, and the tour concludes at South Bridge in the city center.

Along the way, the guide leads visitors through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, pointing out important historical sites and regaling them with stories about famous Scottish figures. From execution sites to the notorious Tolbooth Prison, the tour offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s gory past.

Throughout the experience, guests follow in the footsteps of royals and rogues, gaining a deeper understanding of Scotland’s rich heritage.

Explore UNESCO-listed Old Town

After exploring Edinburgh’s gory past, the tour moves into the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where guests enjoy the rich history and architecture of this well-preserved district.

Wandering the winding cobblestone streets, they’ll encounter historic landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral and the iconic Balmoral Hotel. The guide shares tales of famous Scots like Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns, bringing the Old Town’s history to life.

Visitors are awed by the medieval tenement buildings, hidden courtyards, and narrow alleyways that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Exploring this enchanting area allows guests to truly step back in time and gain a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s captivating heritage.

Stories of Famous Scots

Private Old Edinburgh Tour – Walk in the Footsteps of Royals and Rogues!

Weaving tales of Scotland’s most celebrated figures, the guide captivates visitors with the fascinating histories of Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Visitors learn about the tumultuous lives and legacies of these iconic Scots:

• Mary Queen of Scots, the ill-fated monarch whose reign was marked by scandal and intrigue
• Robert Burns, the celebrated poet whose works continue to inspire people around the world
• Bonnie Prince Charlie, the charismatic pretender to the British throne whose failed rebellion shaped the course of Scottish history

Through these stories, the tour offers a deeper understanding of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring impact of its most famous sons and daughters.

Ideal for First-time Visitors

The private walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town offers an ideal introduction for first-time visitors, allowing them to enjoy the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.

Guided by a local expert, the tour takes participants through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where they’ll walk in the footsteps of significant Scottish figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Along the way, they’ll explore the capital’s gory past, including former execution sites and the notorious Tolbooth Prison.

With its focus on the city’s key highlights and engaging storytelling, this tour provides an excellent starting point for those looking to uncover the fascinating history and architecture of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this private walking tour. The tour focuses on the gory history of Edinburgh’s Old Town, which may not be suitable for animals. Visitors are advised to leave their pets at home for this experience.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Food and Water?

No, food and water are not included in the tour, so you’ll need to bring your own. The tour focuses on exploring Edinburgh’s history, with a local guide providing insights along the way.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves extensive walking through the historic Old Town. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate guests with special needs – it’s best to inquire directly.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests can take photos during the tour. The guide encourages photography throughout the experience, allowing visitors to capture the historic sights and scenery at their own pace.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour company offers an option to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. Guests can inquire about extending the tour when booking or speak with the guide on the day of the tour to see if it’s possible.

Recap

This captivating private walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town offers an immersive journey into the city’s remarkable heritage.

Visitors can retrace the footsteps of legendary figures, explore the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, and uncover the dark past of former execution sites.

With its UNESCO-listed status and enduring legacy of famous Scots, this tour provides a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s history, making it an ideal experience for first-time visitors.