Royal Mile tours, things to do and tickets

Experience the world's most haunted city on a ghost tour of Edinburgh and be spooked by one of the city's most infamous sons as they lead you around the dark side of the Old Town. Discover the hidden wynds (alleys) off the Royal Mile and hear some of Edinburgh’s horrifying secrets. Then, visit what is regarded as the most haunted graveyard in the world at "Greyfriars Kirkyard." Finally, go deep underground and explore the Edinburgh Vaults beneath the streets. Completed in 1788, the series of chambers were used to house taverns and as storage space for illicit material, including the bodies of people killed by serial killers Burke and Hare for their medical experiments. Journey through over 400 years of history and hear terrifying true tales of hangings, torture, murders and witchcraft. Shiver at the weird noises and unexplained smells that make an appearance after dark!

Prepare to be scared silly on a 75 minute ghost bus tour around Edinburgh’s ghoulish haunts. Under the guidance of a creepy onboard conductor, cruise around Edinburgh’s most terrifying and impressive sights, such as Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Ride in a double-decker 'Routemaster' vintage bus and feel your hairs stand on end as you hear shocking tales of grisly executions, unspeakable tortures and grim grave robbers. Discover the city’s sinister side and steel yourself for some frights on board.

This tour is led by Edinburgh Guided Tour — a small team of exceptional Guides, including PHD Historians, a Professor, and a Museum Manager. Each guide handpicked for their intelligence and warmth. Their passion for Edinburgh shines through in every story they tell, from royal scandal to Enlightenment genius, from Harry Potter to historical rogues. We keep our group size small — never more than 12 guests — so every participant enjoys a personal experience. No straining to hear in a crowd of 30! Our guests consistently give us amazing reviews. These are not your average guides. They will Make History Come Alive. • Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Mile and surrounds • See the secret closes and wynds and all of the major sites • Learn of the famous writers, poets, and economists who have made Edinburgh their home • Visit famous landmarks such as St Giles Cathedral, Grassmarket, and Greyfriars’ Kirkyard • Take the opportunity to capture some amazing photographic opportunities

This walking tour is the perfect introduction to Scotland’s capital. The first secret you’ll learn? That you can skip the line at Edinburgh Castle! Step into Edinburgh’s secrets and discover the heart of Scotland’s capital, beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks. A beautiful city steeped in awe-inspiring history that has been perfectly preserved to this day, in the wynds, closes, courtyards and homes of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The castle towers over Edinburgh from up high on its ancient volcanic rock – a literal fortress, looking out over the city’s stunning landscapes. Battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been inspired by it. Visit Edinburgh Castle with your Mercat Tours Storyteller and from the Royal Mile you’ll walk over the drawbridge and straight past the ticket line – leaving the queues behind and continuing your journey into Edinburgh’s history uninterrupted.

This one-day tour from Edinburgh takes you sightseeing at the impressive Kelpies, to beautiful Loch Lomond, the magnificent Trossachs National Park and the land of Scottish legends William Wallace and Rob Roy. Before a fascinating stop at Stirling Castle to experience the history and stories of Scottish royalty. Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.

Virtually walk through the streets of Edinburgh's old town with a guide who is also a fan of the TV series and novels. You will see the locations used in season 3 filming (with images taken at the time of filming by the guide) as well as the novel locations. You will also hear what Edinburgh would have been like at the time Jamie had his print shop here. Enjoy this Private tour immersed in all things Outlander. Although this is a virtual tour you will be able to chat with the guide, ask questions. The guide is both a Novel and TV fan and has met most of the cast. This tour is delivered via Zoom. Once you have booked you will be sent a meeting link. Zoom is free for you to use.

Make the most of your time in Edinburgh. Spend a couple of hours strolling through the streets of Edinburgh's Old Town. Hear about Edinburgh's history, characters and events that shaped this wonderful city. The Royal Mile leads down from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. If you have a special interest let us know we can tailor for you. Harry Potter, Outlander or the Jacobite's or a mix of everything, history, architecture and people from the past.

Explore Edinburgh and nearby Rosslyn Chapel on this 9-hour private shore excursion by minivan. See Edinburgh Castle, home to several monarchs and the Scottish crown jewels. Wander down the Royal Mile and around the New Town, experiencing both ancient Edinburgh and the modern cosmopolitan city. Drive past the Scottish Parliament and around Arthur’s Seat before heading out to visit Rosslyn Chapel, built in the mid-15th Century and made famous by the Da Vinci Code.