Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and want to get a real feel for its ancient heart, a walking tour of the Old Town might just be your best move. We’ve looked into this 90-minute experience offered by Roam North Tours, and honestly, it sounds like a solid way to see the city’s most iconic and lesser-known spots without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a history buff, a first-time visitor, or someone who just wants to soak in the atmosphere with a friendly guide, this tour has a lot to offer.

What really caught our eye is how the guide’s storytelling seems to bring Edinburgh’s past vividly to life — and it’s not just about the famous landmarks but also those hidden corners and folktales that make this city so unique. Plus, at just $27, it’s an accessible way to get oriented and learn some fascinating stories. On the flip side, it’s a walking tour, so if mobility is an issue or you prefer a more leisurely pace, you may want to consider that. Still, for most visitors wanting a compact, engaging overview of Edinburgh’s medieval charm, this tour could fit the bill perfectly.

This experience works best for those who enjoy history, storytelling, and a lively group atmosphere. It’s not tailored specifically for families or travelers with mobility challenges, but it’s an ideal introduction for anyone eager to understand the city’s soul in a short time.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling by passionate, friendly guides makes history lively and memorable.
• Strategic stops include iconic sites like St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, and Victoria Street.
• The tour offers a blend of famous landmarks and hidden gems, giving a well-rounded view.
• It’s priced affordably at $27, offering good value considering the depth of storytelling and sights.
• The tour is typical of moderate physical difficulty—mostly walking with some gentle inclines.
• Finish at a historic pub, perfect for a quick refresh and socializing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What to Expect on the Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour

Starting at the historic St Giles Cathedral on High Street, this tour immediately immerses you in Edinburgh’s medieval atmosphere. The guide will take you through winding closes (tiny alleyways) that once served as the city’s secret passages, revealing stories that you won’t find in a guidebook. It’s a chance to appreciate the city’s medieval layout and hear about days when Edinburgh’s streets teemed with life and intrigue.

From there, you’ll venture onto the grounds of Edinburgh Castle, the most recognizable landmark. While the tour doesn’t include entry into the castle itself, the guide will point out St Margaret’s Chapel—the city’s oldest building, dating back to 1103—and explain its significance. As you walk, the guide’s storytelling breathes life into these stones, making you feel like you’re walking through history instead of just looking at ruins.

A highlight is Victoria Street, renowned for its pastel-colored shops and lively atmosphere. It’s a favorite among visitors for photos and browsing. Then, you’ll pass through the Grassmarket area, once a bustling marketplace and now a lively spot filled with pubs and restaurants. Historically, this was the city’s original watering hole area, so it’s a fun blend of past and present.

Next, you’ll stroll into the Cowgate, known as ‘Little Ireland,’ and hear tales about its immigrant past and local football club—Hibernian, established in 1875. The guide will point out the Flodden Wall, a reminder of Edinburgh’s medieval defenses, and walk along St Mary’s Street to the city’s original gates, now marked by the ornate ground cobbles of the Worlds End Pub.

Throughout this walk, the guide’s lively storytelling, infused with humor and passion, makes the history approachable and engaging. You’ll stop at various points for explanations, photos, and perhaps a quick toilet break, which is totally fine. The tour concludes at a historic pub on St Mary’s Street, a fitting spot to reflect on what you’ve seen during the tour.

The Highlights in Detail

St Giles Cathedral and High Street

This iconic church isn’t just a stunning piece of architecture; it’s woven into the city’s identity. The guide will share stories about the patron saint and the cathedral’s role in Edinburgh’s history. The atmosphere here sets the tone for the tour—gothic grandeur mixed with local stories.

Close Encounters and Hidden Alleyways

Walking through Edinburgh’s closes, you’ll see how the city’s medieval streets were designed for defense, privacy, and intrigue. These narrow passageways hold secrets and stories that add depth to your understanding of Edinburgh’s historical layers.

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Edinburgh Castle and St Margaret’s Chapel

While you won’t go inside, standing on the grounds of this historic fortress gives a sense of the city’s importance. The guide’s tales about the chapel and castle’s history make the stones come alive, especially when you hear about the castle’s role in Scottish history.

Victoria Street and Grassmarket

These vibrant areas are perfect for photos and people-watching. The colorful shops on Victoria Street contrast beautifully with the historic atmosphere. The Grassmarket, once rough and rowdy, now hosts pubs and shops, but the guide’s stories reveal its darker past.

Cowgate and the Flodden Wall

Hearing about the Irish immigrants and Edinburgh’s medieval defenses makes this part of the walk fascinating. The Flodden Wall, built after the Battle of Flodden in 1513, remains a tangible link to Edinburgh’s turbulent past.

The City’s Original Gates and ‘Worlds End’

Strolling past the city’s gates and the Worlds End Pub brings together history and today’s lively pub scene. It’s a poetic reminder of Edinburgh’s medieval origins and its modern vibrancy.

Ending at a Historic Pub

The culmination at a traditional pub on St Mary’s Street offers a chance to chat with the guide, reflect, or grab a quick drink. It’s a nice touch that rounds off the tour in a social, relaxed setting.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who manage to make history fun and accessible. One reviewer mentioned, “The stories and humor made it feel like I was listening to a friend tell me about their city.” Others loved the stunning views and the atmosphere, noting how the tour’s storytelling made historic sites feel alive.

Some small drawbacks noted include the need for comfortable shoes, as it’s a 1.5-hour walk over uneven cobbles and some inclines—typical of medieval Streets, but worth considering if you have mobility issues. A few mentioned that the tour doesn’t go inside any buildings, so if you’re after in-depth inside visits, you might need additional tours.

Is It Worth the Price?

For $27, this tour offers impressive value. You’re not just walking past sights but gaining context and stories that transform a sightseeing walk into a lively lesson in Edinburgh’s past. The materials aided by an iPad add visual interest, making the history even more engaging. Considering the guide’s passion and the stops at historic sites, it’s an economical way to get your bearings and learn about Edinburgh’s most famous neighborhood.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who appreciate storytelling and want a snapshot of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It’s suited for those who enjoy walking and exploring historic areas without the need for inside access. If you’re looking for a quick, meaningful introduction to Edinburgh’s medieval streets and folklore, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

The Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour by Roam North Tours offers a well-balanced blend of history, humor, and scenic beauty. The guides’ passion and storytelling skill turn what could be a simple walk into an engaging journey through time. The stops are well-chosen, giving a good mix of well-known landmarks and hidden corners that reveal the city’s soul.

While it’s not a comprehensive inside tour of Edinburgh Castle or a deep dive into every historic detail, it’s perfect as an introduction or a quick immersion. The moderate physical effort required is manageable for most, and the social atmosphere makes it a fun way to meet fellow travelers. If you’re after a lively, authentic taste of Edinburgh’s old town, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking over cobbled streets and some inclines, which might be challenging for those with mobility impairments or who use a wheelchair.

Does the tour include inside visits to castles or landmarks?
No, the tour is primarily a walking narrative and does not include entry into any buildings. It focuses on outdoor sights and storytelling.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since you’ll be walking around for 1.5 hours over uneven surfaces.

Can I buy water-proof ponchos during the tour?
Yes, ponchos are available for sale at £5 each, payable by card if the weather turns rainy.

Where exactly do we meet the guide?
You’ll find a Roam North Flag beside St Giles Cathedral on Edinburgh’s High Street, to the left of the main entrance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable walking and listening to stories. It’s not specifically tailored for very young children or those with special needs.

If you’re eager to uncover Edinburgh’s layers of history with a friendly guide, this walking tour offers a lively, accessible introduction to the city’s medieval past. It’s a great way to start your visit, get your bearings, and maybe even pick up a few local tales to impress your friends back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: