Edinburgh Walking Tour Highlights with Expert Excursions
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with moderate walking distance and gentle terrain.
Overview
Dive into Edinburgh’s historic streets and serene village landscapes with Expert Excursions. This private walking tour guided by a Blue Badge expert reveals the capital’s architectural gems and rich urban stories in just four hours.
Edinburgh's Dean Village & New Town Private Walking Tour With a Blue Badge Tour Guide
Take in Edinburgh’s rich history • All Ages • 4 hours • Local, expert guides!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 4-hour private tour of Edinburgh’s New Town and the enchanting Dean Village, guided by expert Blue Badge tour guides. Explore iconic sites like Princes Street, the Scott Monument, and the stunning Ross Fountain, while uncovering the rich history and architectural beauty that define Scotland's capital.
Discover the history and wonders wonders of Edinburgh’s New Town and the serene beauty of the Dean Village
Discover Edinburgh with our private tours, guided by accredited expert Blue Badge tour guides. Suitable for all ages. This tour is in English.
Duration
4 Hours
Start & Finish
Meet your guide at the Scott Monument, or at your Edinburgh city centre accommodation.
Highlights
- Princes Street
- Scott Monument
- Dean Village
- Belford Mews
- Charlotte Square
- Bute House
- Princes Street Gardens
- Ross Fountain
Discover on This Tour
PRINCES STREET An essential stop for all visitors to Edinburgh: the bustling Princes Street, prime destination for shoppers and sightseers alike. Running parallel to the historic Royal Mile, Princes Street is historically Edinburgh’s main shopping destination, as well as the home of the iconic Scott Monument dedicated to celebrated author Sir Walter Scott.
DEAN VILLAGE, WELL COURT AND DEAN BRIDGE Hidden away in a tranquil world of its own at a short walking distance from Edinburgh’s bustling city centre lies the beautiful Dean Village. Here, the Water of Leith powered the thriving heart of Edinburgh’s grain milling for over eight centuries and now gives us an enchanting window into the city’s past.
CHARLOTTE SQUARE & BUTE HOUSE A prime example of Georgian design and elegance, Charlotte Square was conceived as part of Edinburgh’s ambitious New Town project by renowned Scottish architect Robert Adam. Representing the epitome of neoclassical architecture and forming part of Edinburgh’s World Heritage site, the square is surrounded by luxurious terraced houses of timeless grandeur, providing us with an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the rich and sophisticated of eighteenth and nineteenth century Edinburgh.
PRINCES STREET GARDENS Moving into the dramatic shadow of Edinburgh Castle, the Princes Street Gardens offers us a luxuriant retreat in the heart of the city. This lush green expanse of urban park provides both locals and tourists alike with a space to relax, reflect, and take in at leisure the fullness of Scotland’s capital city on all sides. Depending on the time of year, we may also encounter one of the Gardens’ seasonal events, concerts or even a wonderfully festive Christmas market!
THE ROSS FOUNTAIN We finish our tour at the best-known monument in Princes Street Gardens: the Ross Fountain, a masterpiece of nineteenth century sculpture. Looking particularly spectacular with the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle towering dramatically on a cliff face behind, the cascading fountain is adorned with ornate statues representing science, the arts, poetry, and industry. A testament to the era’s craftsmanship and history, the fountain is also a fitting representation of Edinburgh throughout the ages.
Activity Level
Approximately 3 miles / 4.8km walking
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Expect roughly 3 miles of walking on a mix of paved streets and some uneven village paths.
Bring a Portable Rain Jacket
Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so a lightweight rain jacket will keep you comfortable.
Charge Your Phone or Camera
You'll encounter stunning photo ops from Dean Village to Princes Street Gardens.
Prepare for a Leisurely Pace
The tour is designed to be accessible for all ages, focusing on storytelling rather than speed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban foxes commonly spotted near quieter parts of Dean Village
- Various water birds like ducks and herons along the Water of Leith
History
Dean Village was central to Edinburgh’s grain milling industry for over 800 years, powered by the Water of Leith.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain the natural cleanliness of the Water of Leith and preserve historical architecture help sustain Edinburgh’s unique urban environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sturdy footwear ensures comfort across city pavements and uneven village paths.
Light Rain Jacket
To stay dry during Scotland's frequent and sudden showers.
spring|fall|summer|winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture crisp architectural details and lush garden scenes.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially during summer months.
summer|null specific