Turn the Royal Mile into a playground with a self-guided treasure hunt through Edinburgh Old Town. Solve clues, explore hidden closes, and learn local history at your own pace on this app-led three-hour walking Quest.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The cobbles underfoot click and the Royal Mile stretches ahead—a spine of stone that climbs from the shadow of Edinburgh Castle down toward the Palace of Holyroodhouse. In this self-guided Quest you become a detective of streets and closes: solving puzzles, following clues, and unlocking little known corners of Old Town as the city nudges you onward.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires comfortable walking ability and the capability to handle short steep sections and stairs.
Wildlife
History
Edinburgh Old Town’s street plan dates to the medieval period; the Royal Mile links the fortress of Castle Rock with the royal seat at Holyrood, and many closes preserve traces of trade and domestic life from the 16th–18th centuries.
Conservation
Stick to marked paths and avoid touching fragile stonework; walking tours are low-impact, but visitors should limit noise and litter to protect historic fabric and resident communities.
Reserve your spot on the Edinburgh Old Town: Self Guided Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Charge your device fully
The Quest runs through the Go Quest Adventures app—bring a fully charged phone and a portable battery to avoid losing progress mid-game.
Watch your step on cobbles
Old Town streets are uneven and include steep closes; wear sturdy, grippy shoes and take care on wet stone.
Plan around festival crowding
If visiting during August’s festival/Tattoo season, allow extra time and check Castle opening hours to avoid closures.
Bring a small notebook
Some puzzles are easier to sketch or work out on paper—pen and paper are part of the kit.
Comfortable walking shoes
Grippy footwear keeps you steady on uneven cobbles and stone steps.
Charged smartphone
Required to run the Go Quest Adventures app and enter puzzle answers.
Portable battery pack
Ensures your device stays powered through the three-hour Quest and photo stops.
Waterproof jacket
Scotland’s weather shifts—light rain and wind are possible even in summer; a packable jacket keeps you comfortable.
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