City of Edinburgh Tours
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation
Welcome to the historic heart of Scotland's capital, a city where the layers of time are etched into every soot-stained stone and narrow wynd. As we begin our exploration of the Old Town, it is essential to understand the unique…
Listen in the app2Section 1 — The Royal Mile and the Heart of Midlothian
We stand now upon the Royal Mile, the historic thoroughfare that connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This stretch of road is not just a street; it is the ceremonial spine of the nation. …
Listen in the app3Section 2 — Riddle's Court and the Hidden Closes
Step away from the main thoroughfare and enter the quiet sanctuary of Riddle's Court. This is one of the most beautiful and historic merchant houses remaining on the Royal Mile, built in the late 16th century by the wealthy…
Listen in the app4Section 3 — Victoria Street and the Inspiration for Diagon Alley
Descending from the heights of the Royal Mile, we find ourselves on Victoria Street, arguably the most photogenic and charming street in the entire city. Built between 1829 and 1834 by architect Thomas Hamilton, this sweeping,…
Listen in the app5Section 4 — The Grassmarket and the Shadow of the Gallows
Entering the wide, open expanse of the Grassmarket, the atmosphere shifts. Today, this is a vibrant social hub filled with outdoor cafes, lively pubs, and the occasional hotel, but its history is deeply shadowed. …
Listen in the app6Section 5 — The Vennel and the Flodden Wall
To find one of the city's best-kept secrets, climb the steep stone staircase known as The Vennel, located at the western end of the Grassmarket. As you ascend these steps, take a moment to look back. …
Listen in the app7Section 6 — The Writers' Museum and Makars' Court
Returning toward the center of the Old Town, we enter Makars' Court, an evolving literary monument situated just off the Royal Mile. The word 'Makar' is an Old Scots term for a poet or writer, and this courtyard celebrates…
Listen in the app8Closing
As our journey through the Old Town comes to a close, we find ourselves once again near the bustling heart of the Royal Mile. We have traversed a landscape that is both a fortress and a home, a place of high drama and quiet…
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What is City of Edinburgh Tours?
City of Edinburgh Tours is a place with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Type | Heritage |
|---|---|
| Story sections | 8 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 55.9490, -3.1869 |
| Last updated |
Nearby places
within a 5-minute walk
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