Private Old Edinburgh Tour – Walk in the footsteps of Royals and Rogues!

Thinking about exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town? This private tour, rated a perfect 5.0 by over 200 travelers, offers an engaging way to get to know the city’s dark, fascinating past. If you’re a first-time visitor or a history buff, you’ll find this experience packed with stories of Scottish royalty, infamous criminals, and the city’s most iconic sites.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s private, meaning you get a personalized experience with a guide who’s passionate and knowledgeable. Second, it covers some of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric spots—think cobbled streets and historic ruins—while weaving in vivid descriptions, archive imagery, and some amusing anecdotes.

Of course, a quick two-hour walk isn’t going to cover every nook and cranny, and some might find the pace a little brisk if they want to linger. Still, for those who love stories, scenery, and a sense of walking through history, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for first-timers eager to get a broad, insightful overview of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Key Points

• Highly rated experience: With a 5.0/5 from 216 reviews, travelers rave about the guide’s knowledge and storytelling.
• Personalized private tour: Only your group participates, creating a more intimate, engaging experience.
• Rich in stories: Learn about Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and infamous figures like Burke and Hare.
• Focus on iconic sites: Visit three former execution spots, the Tolbooth Prison, and views of Edinburgh Castle.
• Great for first-timers: Perfect if you want an overview that hits major highlights without feeling rushed.
• Moderate physical activity: Expect a walking pace suitable for most, but be prepared for some cobblestones and uneven surfaces.

The Experience in Detail

This tour’s starting point is the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, a cemetery that’s integral to Edinburgh’s identity. As you enter through the main gate, your guide immediately sets the tone with stories about Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog celebrated in local legend. Travelers often mention how the guide’s storytelling makes even the grim stories engaging, as one reviewer noted, “Robert, a lifelong citizen and teacher, shared his immense knowledge with humor and care.”

From Greyfriars, the walk takes you to the lively Grassmarket area, a place loaded with history. Your guide explains how one of Scotland’s major weddings took place here and how it shaped Edinburgh’s social fabric. You’ll follow the route of the wedding party, adding a touch of romance to the tour’s darker themes. The reviews highlight the guide’s ability to make the past come alive, describing the tour as “fun and educational,” with the perfect mix of humor and facts.

Next, the famous Royal Mile beckons. This stretch is the heartbeat of Old Town, and your guide points out key locations, including where Mary, Queen of Scots, spent her childhood. You’ll also visit a charming courtyard linked to royalty and learn about Deacon William Brodie—an intriguing character who was both a respected citizen and a notorious gambler and burglar. The stories at the Mercat Cross and St Giles are especially memorable; travelers often mention how these sites reveal Edinburgh’s layered history.

The tour then ventures into the Cowgate, an often-overlooked alley that offers a glimpse into Victorian Edinburgh’s impoverished side. It’s here you’ll get a sense of what daily life was like for the city’s less privileged residents. The guide’s stories often include props and pictures to help you visualize how the city’s past residents lived, making the experience more tangible.

The final stops focus on the University of Edinburgh, where the infamous Burke and Hare murders took place. The guide explains how these Irish murderers operated and what happened to them, adding a chilling but fascinating chapter to your understanding of Edinburgh’s darker history. Nearby, Old College stands as a striking monument, with stories that even seasoned travelers find compelling and surprising, sometimes even explosive in nature.

What to Expect from the Tour

This is a private experience, meaning only your group will be exploring the Old Town with your guide, Robert (or whomever is leading that day). It lasts roughly two hours, giving enough time to absorb the stories without feeling rushed. The walking is at a moderate pace and involves some uneven cobbled streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Your guide makes a point of providing archive imagery and props to illustrate old Edinburgh, which really helps bring the stories to life. This visual element is especially appreciated by travelers who love to picture what once was and connect stories to physical places. The tour’s route is carefully curated to include historically significant sites, iconic streets, and lesser-known passages, offering a well-rounded picture of the city’s past.

Pricing is around $117 per group, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized nature of a private guide. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and storytelling skill—many note how Robert’s sense of humor and engaging personality elevate the experience.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Greyfriars Cemetery kicks off the tour, where stories about Edinburgh’s famous dog Greyfriars Bobby set a sentimental tone. This stop is short but packed with local lore and legends, offering a gentle start to the journey.

Next, Grassmarket is a lively square that once hosted public executions and was the site of significant Scottish events. Here, your guide shares insights into Edinburgh’s social and political history, making the area’s lively vibe more meaningful.

The Royal Mile is the core of the tour, with multiple points of interest. You’ll see where Mary Queen of Scots spent her childhood and explore the quaint courtyard with royal links. The story of Deacon William Brodie is one of the more memorable, blending respectability and criminality—a tale that resonates with many visitors.

Cowgate takes you into the city’s darker Victorian past, with stories about the living conditions of the poorer classes. The guide’s vivid descriptions and props make this part surprisingly lively, despite its grim reputation.

The last segment involves the University of Edinburgh, focusing on the notorious Burke and Hare murders. You may even see inside Old College if it’s open, where the stories become more explosive and memorable.

Real Traveler Perspectives

What do travelers love most? Consistently, reviews praise the guide’s depth of knowledge and storytelling ability. One reviewer calls Robert “hilarious, informative and delightfully irreverent,” emphasizing how his personality transforms historical facts into engaging narratives. Others highlight how the tour’s visual aids and props help them picture Edinburgh’s past, making it easier to connect with the stories.

Many describe the tour as “fun and educational,” with a good balance of humor and seriousness. The small-group, private format is also highly valued, allowing for more interaction and personalized storytelling. Several mention that Robert’s enthusiasm and approachable manner made the two hours fly by, with one noting, “Time went so fast I didn’t want it to end.”

Some critical points? A few mention that the walk involves cobblestones and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since it’s a two-hour tour, it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility or who enjoy walking at a steady clip.

Practical Details and Value

At $117 for a group of up to one person, the price might seem high for a short tour, but considering it’s private and includes rich storytelling and visual material, it’s a worthwhile investment for those keen on a personalized Edinburgh experience. The tour is particularly good for first-timers or history enthusiasts who love stories of famous Scots and the city’s darker side.

The moderate physical activity level makes it accessible to most, but remember you’ll be walking on cobbled streets and some hills. The meeting point at Greyfriars Kirkyard is easily accessible via public transportation, and the tour usually ends just a ten-minute walk away on South Bridge.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for those visiting Edinburgh for the first time, especially if you enjoy stories and detailed descriptions of historical sites. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience without the rush of larger group tours. History buffs will appreciate the depth of stories, while casual visitors will enjoy the colorful anecdotes that make Edinburgh come alive.

If you’re curious about the city’s darker history, infamous characters, or royal legends, you’ll find plenty to love. However, if you prefer a more exhaustive, day-long exploration, this two-hour experience might serve best as a primer rather than an in-depth deep dive.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for kids, it could be engaging for older children who enjoy stories and walking. Keep in mind the pace involves some walking on cobblestones and uneven terrain.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, covering significant sites and stories across Edinburgh’s Old Town.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, which means a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It requires moderate walking and involves some cobbled streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s included in the price?
Your local guide, who provides storytelling, archive imagery, and props to illustrate Edinburgh’s past.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, story-rich introduction to Edinburgh’s Old Town, this private tour from Historic Edinburgh Tours is a strong choice. The guide’s passion and ability to weave stories into walking around some of the city’s most atmospheric sites create an experience that many travelers find memorable.

It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts or first-timers who want a comprehensive yet manageable overview. The stories of royalty, rogues, and dark deeds make Edinburgh’s past come alive in a way that’s engaging and authentic. While it might not cover every corner of the city, it offers a meaningful taste that can inspire further exploration.

For those who enjoy vivid storytelling, historical imagery, and a relaxed pace, this tour delivers a charming and insightful window into Edinburgh’s storied past. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some walking on cobblestones—your feet will thank you, and your imagination will thank you even more.