Cultural Walking Tour of Edinburgh's Royal Mile by Invisible Cities Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate walking ability recommended—mostly on flat, paved surfaces
Overview
Discover Edinburgh's famed Royal Mile on a captivating walk that blends history, culture, and social stories. Led by guides with lived experience, this tour offers a deep, authentic connection to the city’s past and present.
The Royal Mile: Edinburgh's Most Famous Street
1,5 hours • All Ages •
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile on a captivating walking tour that blends rich history with modern-day charm. Led by guides trained from experiences of homelessness, this unique journey not only showcases the city's heritage but also supports a meaningful cause, making your exploration both memorable and impactful.
This Edinburgh walking tour covers the most famous street in the city. Even though you will start at the Grassmarket you will go down the Royal Mile for an exploration of the history of this street and where it gets its famous name, but also of all modern day organisations that call it home today.
This tour can be conducted by several of our guides at Invisible (Edinburgh) so a specific person is not guaranteed.
The tour may run an extra five or ten minutes due to crowds or traffic.
Duration
1 hours and 30 minutes
About Us
Invisible Cities is a Social Enterprise. This means we are a social business with a social conscience. We don't believe in labels or stereotypes and we want to show that everyone has great potential, a fact reflected in our tour guides.
Tour revenue will be invested in providing support for our tour guides, who have all been affected by homelessness.
We train people affected by homelessness to become walking tour guides of their own city and offer these alternative tours to tourists and locals.
Please call for any questions.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so sturdy footwear ensures a smooth walk.
Bring an umbrella
Weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable; packing light rain gear keeps you dry.
Arrive early
Joining a few minutes before start ensures a timely and relaxed experience.
Engage with your guide
Ask questions about Edinburgh’s history or social issues for a richer experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons in the streets
- Seagulls near the water at Holyrood Park
History
The Royal Mile has been the main street of Edinburgh since medieval times, connecting royal residences with civic centers, and is filled with stories of Scottish history and culture.
Conservation
The tours emphasize community engagement and promote awareness about social issues while maintaining respect for Edinburgh’s historic sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking on cobblestone streets comfortably.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Layers and rain gear keep you comfortable in changing weather conditions.
Small backpack
Carrying essentials such as water, snacks, and an umbrella makes the walk easier.
Camera or smartphone
Capture Edinburgh’s vibrant streets and historic sights along your journey.