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.

Unearth a pathway to Holyrood Palace that escapes the notice of history books and Edinburgh bus tours. Explore a lesser known but equally captivating side of Edinburgh Old Town’s vibrant history as you journey down the quiet closes of the Royal Mile.

Your expert tour Storyteller will immerse you in the rich, engaging history of the rebellious Jacobites clattering over the cobbles, led by a proud Bonnie Prince Charlie. You’ll delve into the intriguing life and times of sickly poet Robert Fergusson; the inspiration to renowned Robert Burns and forever immortalised in this part of town.

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.

From rebels to royalty

Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse, equipped with your newly acquired knowledge of the Canongate’s history.

At the conclusion of your Treasures of the Old Town tour, your guide will introduce you to the glorious Palace of Holyroodhouse. You are free to explore these 14 magnificent state apartments, as well as the romantic ruins of the 12th Century Holyrood Abbey, at your own leisure.

Long before the Palace was used by Her Majesty the Queen for modern day royal ceremonies, it was the setting for many dramatic episodes in the short reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, which you’ll hear all about during this tour.

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