Turn Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a puzzle-lined playground. This self-guided GPS game guides you through Grassmarket, Victoria Street, Mary King’s Close and other historic corners—solve riddles and photo challenges at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The city presses in around you—cobbles underfoot, gables leaning close, the wind off the Firth of Forth nudging your scarf—as you start at the statue of Walter Francis Montagu Douglas Scott and set off to hunt the cursed Hangman’s Hood. The game turns Edinburgh’s streets into a staged mystery: Grassmarket’s market-square bravado, the tight, shadowed alleys of Mary King’s Close, and the curve of Victoria Street that seems to keep a secret at every shopfront.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking fitness; able to stand and walk for a couple of hours over uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
The route weaves through areas that witnessed Edinburgh’s shift from medieval burg to Enlightenment capital, with frequent plaques marking events and buildings from the 16th–19th centuries.
Conservation
Respect fragile stonework and private closes, follow ‘leave no trace’ in public gardens, and avoid blocking narrow passageways to minimize wear and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Secrets of Edinburgh Self Guided Exploration Game today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start at the statue
Begin at the Walter Francis Montagu Douglas Scott statue to ensure the game’s GPS checkpoints align correctly and avoid initial navigation errors.
Bring a charged phone
The experience requires an internet-connected smartphone; carry a power bank to avoid interruptions during puzzles and photo challenges.
Watch your step on cobbles
Cobblestones and narrow closes can be uneven—wear sturdy shoes and take care during wet weather to reduce slip risk.
Pause and explore side alleys
Use the pause feature to detour into quieter closes and historical nooks for better photos and less crowding during peak hours.
Smartphone with data
Required to access the game link, GPS prompts, and submit photo challenges.
Comfortable walking shoes
Sturdy soles and ankle support help on uneven cobbles and short stairways in closes.
Compact power bank
Keeps your phone charged so you can finish the game and take photos without interruption.
Light waterproof layer
Edinburgh weather changes quickly—carry a packable rain shell to stay comfortable.
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