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Edinburgh Through Time A Self Guided Heritage Journey

By CloudGuide S.L
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$12 per adult
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Features
  • Free cancellation available
  • 6h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
Overview

Discover Edinburgh's ancient charm and rich history with our self-guided audio tour app, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Begin at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city on Castle Rock, then proceed down the historic Royal Mile, the heart of Old Town. Immerse yourself in Scottish royal history at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland, before admiring the lively atmosphere of Grassmarket with its traditional pubs and shops. Stroll through the elegant New Town streets to the National Museum of Scotland, home to thousands of fascinating artefacts telling Scotland's storey. Experience the city's literary heritage at the Writers' Museum and along the winding closes of the Old Town, then marvel at the panoramic views from Calton Hill with its collection of historic monuments. Continue your tour to Arthur's Seat, exploring this ancient volcano and ascending to its peak for breathtaking views.

Activity location
  • Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
    • Castle Hill
    • EH1 2NG, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Meeting/Redemption Point
  • Edinburgh Castle
    • Castlehill
    • EH1 2NG, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

Check availability

Edinburgh Through Time A Self Guided Heritage Journey
  • Activity duration is 6 hours6h
    6h
  • English
Language options: English
Price details
AU$12.30 x 1 AdultAU$12.30
Total
Price is AU$12.30

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Self-guided walking tour (app)
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Digital City Map
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Private transport
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    No in-person guides: Explore independently with our digital tour app.
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Museum's and tourist attraction's fees/tickets are not included.

Know before you book

  • Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
  • 30m
The Castle Esplanade is a grand forecourt before Edinburgh Castle's main entrance, offering spectacular views over the city. This impressive open space hosts the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo each August. The Esplanade serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the Royal Mile, with its rich history and stunning architecture.
Edinburgh Castle (Pass by)
Perched atop an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle dominates Edinburgh's skyline as Scotland's most iconic fortress. The castle houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, used in coronation ceremonies. Visitors can witness the One o'Clock Gun firing, explore St. Margaret's Chapel (Edinburgh's oldest building), and discover centuries of Scottish royal histor
Lawnmarket
  • 1h
The Lawnmarket, originally named for its role as a linen market, represents the oldest part of Edinburgh's Old Town. This historic street features well-preserved 16th-century buildings, including the famous Gladstone's Land and numerous hidden closes. The area showcases some of the best examples of medieval architecture in the city.
Writers' Museum (Pass by)
Housed in Lady Stair's House, the Writers' Museum celebrates Scotland's literary giants: Robert Burns, Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. The museum displays personal artefacts including Burns' writing desk and Scott's printing press. The collection includes rare manuscripts, first editions, and personal items that bring these literary legends to life.
St Giles' Cathedral (Pass by)
Founded in the 1120s, St. Giles' Cathedral stands as the historic High Kirk of Edinburgh with its distinctive crown spire. The cathedral features magnificent stained glass windows and the famous Thistle Chapel, home to Scotland's highest order of chivalry. Every hour, the traditional Hejnal trumpet call sounds from its tower, continuing a centuries-old tradition.
Mary Kings Close (Pass by)
Hidden beneath Edinburgh's Royal Mile, Mary King's Close offers a glimpse into the city's 17th-century life. This preserved street tells stories of plague victims, murderers, and everyday medieval life. The close features authentic period rooms and fascinating tales of its former residents.
Mercat Cross
  • 30m
The Mercat Cross, standing outside St. Giles' Cathedral, marks the historic heart of Edinburgh's trading centre. This restored medieval monument serves as the traditional site for royal proclamations and civic announcements. The cross features intricate carvings and remains an important ceremonial location.
National Museum of Scotland
  • 1h
This magnificent Victorian building houses collections spanning Scottish history, nature, and global cultures. The museum's rooftop terrace provides stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh's skyline. Interactive exhibits and the Grand Gallery's soaring atrium make this a must-visit destination.
John Knox House Museum (Pass by)
This preserved 15th-century house is associated with Scotland's famous religious reformer. The building features original wooden ceilings and painted walls dating from the 1600s. Its exhibits tell the dramatic storey of the Scottish Reformation and Edinburgh's turbulent past.
Canongate Kirk (Pass by)
This historic section of the Royal Mile was once a separate burgh from Edinburgh. The Canongate Kirk serves as the parish church for Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. Notable residents buried in its kirkyard include economist Adam Smith and poet Robert Fergusson.
The Scottish Parliament (Pass by)
This contemporary building showcases bold modern architecture contrasting with its historic surroundings. The complex incorporates Scottish symbols and materials throughout its innovative design. Visitors can observe parliamentary sessions and explore exhibitions about Scottish democracy.
Palace of Holyroodhouse (Pass by)
The Queen's official residence in Scotland stands at the bottom of the Royal Mile. The palace is rich with tales of Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Its elegant State Apartments and ruins of Holyrood Abbey reflect centuries of royal history.
Scott Monument (Pass by)
This Victorian Gothic spire honours Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. The monument offers climbing access via 287 steps to spectacular city views. Its intricate stonework features 64 character sculptures from Scott's novels.
Museum On The Mound (Pass by)
Located in the former Bank of Scotland headquarters, this museum explores money's history. Interactive exhibits demonstrate the art of banknote printing and safe-cracking. The building offers excellent views of the Old Town from its elevated position.
Stockbridge & Dean Village
  • 1h
This preserved Victorian milling village sits peacefully along the Water of Leith. Former grain mills and workers' cottages create a picturesque scene away from city bustle. The area's well-preserved architecture tells the storey of Edinburgh's industrial past.
Water of Leith Walkway
  • 1h
This tranquil riverside path provides a green corridor through Edinburgh's heart. The walkway connects various historic areas and cultural attractions. Wildlife spotting and peaceful walking opportunities abound along this urban oasis.
Calton Hill
  • 1h
This hilltop park features Edinburgh's collection of historic monuments and memorials. The site offers some of the best panoramic views of the city and Firth of Forth. The unfinished National Monument creates an iconic Edinburgh skyline.
Dr Neil's Garden (Pass by)
This hidden oasis, known as Edinburgh's Secret Garden, sits beside Duddingston Loch. Created by Doctors Andrew and Nancy Neil, it combines thoughtful planting with peaceful contemplation. The garden offers stunning views of Arthur's Seat and the loch.

Location

Activity location
  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
    • Castle Hill
    • EH1 2NG, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Meeting/Redemption Point
  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Edinburgh Castle
    • Castlehill
    • EH1 2NG, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

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