Treasures of the Old Town

History walk in Edinburgh

Explore the hidden treasures of the Royal Mile – and let your expert guide unlock the history of this ancient seat of power. Discover the lesser known history of the Canongate, and the glorious Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Uncover a path to the palace that escapes the notice of history books and bus tours. As you walk down the quiet closes of the Royal Mile your expert tour guide will show you a different side of the city – in rich, engaging detail.

Here, rebellious Jacobites clattered over the cobbles, led by a proud Bonnie Prince Charlie. You'll 'meet' the sickly poet, Robert Fergusson, the inspiration to renowned Robert Burns and forever immortalised on the street. In the hands of your gifted storyteller on this walking tour, you’ll find that romance and intrigue are everywhere – in the architecture, literature, crime and politics, on the very doorstep of the Queen’s Palace.

Edinburgh history tour

Your chance to explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

After the Canongate, your guide will introduce the glorious Palace of Holyroodhouse – which you’ll explore in your own time. You’ll find 14 magnificent state apartments, as well as the romantic ruins of the 12th century Holyrood Abbey.

The palace was the setting for many dramatic episodes in the short reign of Mary, Queen of Scots – and Her Majesty The Queen still makes use of the State Apartments for royal ceremonies.

This tour explores the lower half of the Royal Mile. Want to know more about High Street and Lawnmarket? Try our Secrets of the Royal Mile tour where you can visit Edinburgh Castle. 

Palace image photographer: Ian Jones. Royal Collection Trust / © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2018