A Funny History of Edinburgh Walking Tour: With A Comedian

If you’re heading to Edinburgh and looking for a way to explore its iconic Royal Mile that’s both entertaining and packed with insights, this tour might just be what you need. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we gather, it offers a lively mix of history, humor, and stunning sights, guided by a comedian who brings the story to life.

Two things that really stand out about this experience are the engaging storytelling and the humorous approach that makes history feel fresh and accessible. Plus, the fact that it’s a relatively quick, two-hour stroll means you can fit this into a busy sightseeing day without feeling overwhelmed.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since the guide is a comedian, the tone is lighthearted—if you’re after a super serious history lesson, this might not be your thing. But if you enjoy stories told with wit, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially great for travelers who enjoy a good laugh and want to learn about Edinburgh’s most famous street from a local’s perspective.

This experience is ideal for anyone looking to combine humor with history, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or even a group of friends wanting a memorable and fun way to see Edinburgh. If you’re traveling with family or kids, it could also suit those with a good sense of humor, but it’s worth noting that the focus is on storytelling and comedy rather than hands-on activities.

Key Points

• Humor and History Combine: Your guide is a professional comedian bringing a lively, funny twist to Edinburgh’s stories.
• Iconic Sights Covered: From Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, you get a comprehensive look at the Royal Mile’s most famous landmarks.
• Short and Sweet: At just 2 hours, it’s a manageable way to see and learn without overloading your day.
• Accessible and Easy: Suitable for all ages, with wheelchair accessibility, and involves light walking.
• Great for Lighthearted Tours: If you’re after a more relaxed, humorous experience, you’ll love the tone.
• Good Value: The price offers an engaging experience that mixes entertainment with cultural insight, especially if you enjoy guided storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Overall Feel

The tour kicks off at 87 Ramsay Lane, right near Edinburgh Castle—the city’s most recognizable fortress and a perfect starting point. Your guide, Ross Leslie, a seasoned comedian and five-time Scottish Comedian of the Year finalist, sets a lively tone right from the beginning. He’s described as being a tall, ginger-bearded local, which adds a bit of personality and familiarity to the experience.

From the outset, what makes this tour stand out is the balance of humor and information. Ross’s comedic background shines through, making the stories about battles, royals, and notable characters not just educational but genuinely fun. The reviews praise him for his engaging style, with one noting he’s been entertaining audiences for years, which clearly translates into a lively, memorable tour.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour follows a logical, scenic route along the Royal Mile, with several key stops that have their own stories and quirks:

• Edinburgh Castle: The tour begins here with a quick 10-minute visit, giving you a flavor of the city’s most historic fortress. Expect stories about battles and royal history, all told with humor, making it feel less like a history lecture and more like a storytelling session with a friend.

• Lawnmarket: Another 10-minute stop, this historic street is where you’ll hear tales of the city’s past and see the architecture that has stood the test of time. It’s a lively area, and the stories about the people who shaped Edinburgh make it come alive.

• The Writers’ Museum: With a 10-minute visit, this spot celebrates Scotland’s literary giants—Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Expect an engaging recounting of their importance, delivered with wit.

• John Knox House Museum: Over 30 minutes, you’ll learn about the fiery reformer John Knox. The guide’s storytelling here makes the historical conflict and religious upheavals accessible and humorous.

• Canongate Kirkyard: This 20-minute walk around the historic graveyard is full of stories about notable figures buried there, dark nights, and eerie tales—delivered with a lighthearted touch that keeps things fun rather than spooky.

• Holyrood Palace: The grand finale, a 30-minute visit outside the official royal residence, wrapping up the tour with stories of monarchy, power, and royal scandals—again, told with a comedic twist.

What You Get Out of It

Throughout the tour, you’ll hear about the remarkable people who made Edinburgh special, with a bias that celebrates the city’s greatness. While the focus is on entertainment, the stories are rooted in factual history, making it a memorable way to learn about Edinburgh’s evolution.

Many reviews highlight the stunning views along the mile and the engaging storytelling that keeps your interest piqued. Since the guide is a professional comedian, you can expect plenty of laughs, but also insightful commentary that helps you understand the city’s significance.

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Practical Aspects

The tour lasts two hours, making it manageable for most schedules. It involves walking between each stop, though the pace is relaxed. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus if mobility is a concern.

You’re advised to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, so layers are always a good idea. The meeting point is well-marked, and the guide’s distinctive ginger beard makes spotting him straightforward.

Value for Money

Considering the duration and the lively nature of the guide, the price appears reasonable. You’re getting a guided experience that combines storytelling, humor, and sightseeing, all in a compact time frame. It’s especially good for travelers who want to enjoy Edinburgh’s history without spending hours in museums or on bus tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This walking tour is perfect for those who enjoy a light-hearted approach to history. If you appreciate humor intertwined with storytelling, this will be a hit. It’s also suitable for all ages, given its easy pace and engaging narration, but it might appeal most to adults or older teens who can appreciate the jokes and historical references.

Travelers with an interest in Edinburgh’s royal history, architecture, or literary heritage will find it a fun way to get a broad overview without feeling bogged down. It’s especially ideal if you like your tours delivered by a guide who can entertain as well as inform.

The Sum Up

In essence, the A Funny History of Edinburgh Walking Tour offers a delightful way to explore the Royal Mile. The combination of comedy and storytelling makes it stand out from more traditional guided walks, turning history into an engaging and memorable experience.

While it’s not a deep dive into every detail, it’s a fantastic introduction to Edinburgh’s most famous street, suited for travelers who like their history served with a generous side of humor. The tour’s manageable length and accessibility make it a flexible choice for most visitors, and the guide’s personable style ensures you’ll leave with stories to retell.

If you’re seeking an engaging, laugh-filled way to learn about Edinburgh’s past, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to walk, laugh, and see the city through the eyes of someone who clearly loves sharing its stories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, especially since it’s designed to be lighthearted and fun. Just keep in mind that the humor is delivered in a comedic storytelling style.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 87 Ramsay Lane, next to Edinburgh Castle.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there is walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a specific theme or focus in the stories?
The guide covers battles, royals, and notable people—delivered with humor to make the stories engaging.

What makes this guide special?
Ross Leslie, the guide, is a professional comedian with a wealth of experience entertaining audiences on stage and on the Royal Mile.

How does the cost compare to other Edinburgh tours?
Considering the short duration, humor, and storytelling, the price offers good value, especially given the guide’s lively style.

This tour offers a fun, engaging way to get to know Edinburgh’s Royal Mile—perfect if you want to enjoy history with a smile on your face.

You can check availability for your dates here: