Edinburgh Old Town: Womens History Walking Tour

Edinburgh’s Old Town offers a captivating window into the city’s rich history, and the "Women’s History Walking Tour" provides a unique opportunity to uncover the untold stories of remarkable female trailblazers. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this engaging 2-hour excursion takes participants on a journey through significant sites, from the Witches’ Well to the Camera Obscura, revealing the pivotal roles women have played in shaping the city’s cultural and social landscape. As you explore the lives and legacies of pioneering figures like Mary Somerville and Elsie Inglis, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and contributions of these unsung heroines, whose stories have long been overlooked. Prepare to be immersed in a captivating narrative that sheds light on Edinburgh’s hidden gems and the women who have left an indelible mark on its history.

Key Points

• This 2-hour walking tour explores the contributions of remarkable women in Edinburgh’s Old Town, including pioneers in science, medicine, and activism.
• Highlights include the Witches’ Well, Camera Obscura founded by Maria Therese Short, and insights into the lives of figures like Mary Somerville and Elsie Inglis.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable experts and offers an engaging, interactive experience that encourages participants to discover lesser-known narratives of women’s history.
• The route is wheelchair-accessible, with flexible booking options and a cancellation policy that prioritizes the quality of the experience.
• The tour begins at the Tartan Weaving Mill & Exhibition, allowing for a mostly downhill journey through Edinburgh’s historic streets showcasing women’s legacies.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Titled "Edinburgh Old Town: Women’s History Walking Tour", this 2-hour excursion guides participants through the historic Old Town district, highlighting the contributions and stories of remarkable women who’ve shaped the city’s past.

Priced from £15 per person, the wheelchair-accessible tour is conducted in English. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

The walking route is mostly downhill with some steep areas and cobblestones. Guests meet at the Tartan Weaving Mill & Exhibition, near Edinburgh Castle.

This immersive experience blends classic views with lesser-known narratives, earning a 5/5 rating from previous participants.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Tartan Weaving Mill & Exhibition, where guests receive an introduction to Queen Margaret, Scotland’s only royal saint.

Next, the tour heads to the Witches’ Well, commemorating over 2,500 victims of witch hunts, predominantly women.

Visitors then explore the Camera Obscura, founded by Maria Therese Short in the 1800s.

At Ramsay Garden, the group learns about Anna Morton Geddes, a prominent social reformer.

The tour continues to Writers’ Court, highlighting female authors like Naomi Mitchison and Susan Ferrier.

Notable Figures

Renowned scientist Mary Somerville, hailing from Burntisland, has been lauded as the "Queen of Science" in the 19th century for her groundbreaking work.

Other notable figures highlighted on this tour include:

• Elsie Inglis, a female doctor and war hero who established the Scottish Women’s Medical Units in WWI.
• Lilias Adie, an accused witch who endured torture without naming others.
• Jane Smeal and Eliza Wigham, Quaker activists dedicated to ending slavery in the U.S.
• Elizabeth Wiskemann, a journalist and anti-Nazi spy who saved Hungarian Jewish lives.

These women played pivotal roles in Edinburgh’s history, and this tour sheds light on their significant contributions.

Tour Experience

Led by knowledgeable guides, the Women’s History Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town offers an engaging and interactive experience.

Guests are treated to in-depth storytelling about the city’s female pioneers, trailblazers, and unsung heroes. The tour’s interactive approach encourages participants to actively engage with the material, fostering a deeper understanding of the contributions women have made to Edinburgh’s rich history.

Positive reviews highlight the guide’s ability to seamlessly blend classic sights with lesser-known tales, providing a unique and enlightening perspective on the city’s past.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious to learn more, this tour delivers an immersive and memorable experience.

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Booking and Participation

Participants of all ages can enjoy the Women’s History Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town. The tour welcomes adults, youth, children, infants, seniors, and students with valid ID.

Guests can easily reserve their spot and pay later, subject to availability on the desired date and time. The tour’s flexible booking options make it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

Key features include:

• Adults (17-64)
• Youth (13-16)
• Children (6-12)
• Infants (5 and younger)
• Seniors (65-99)
• Students (with ID)

The tour’s inclusive approach ensures that everyone can explore Edinburgh’s rich women’s history at their own pace and comfort level.

Accessibility and Cancellation

The Edinburgh Old Town: Women’s History Walking Tour is wheelchair accessible, with a route that’s mostly downhill but includes some steep areas and cobblestones.

Participants can explore the city’s rich women’s history at their own pace, with the freedom to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility ensures visitors can plan their trip without worrying about unexpected changes.

The tour’s cancellation policy reflects the organizers’ commitment to providing a high-quality experience that caters to the needs of all participants.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Edinburgh’s remarkable women, this tour offers an accessible and hassle-free way to discover their inspiring stories.

Meeting Point and Starting Location

The tour begins outside the Tartan Weaving Mill & Exhibition, located near Edinburgh Castle. This is the meeting point where the guided tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town and its hidden women’s history begins.

Participants will gather here and embark on a journey through the historic streets, exploring the contributions and legacies of remarkable women who left their mark on the city. The starting location offers easy access, with the tour route following a mostly downhill path, though it includes some steep areas and cobblestones.

Key highlights along the way include:

• Castlehill and the legacy of Queen Margaret, Scotland’s only royal saint
• The Witches Well, commemorating victims of witch hunts
• The Camera Obscura, founded by pioneering woman Maria Therese Short
• Writers Court and the works of celebrated female authors

Key Stops on the Tour

Castlehill provides an introduction to Queen Margaret, Scotland’s only royal saint.

Nearby, the Witches’ Well commemorates the 2,500 victims, primarily women, of the country’s brutal witch hunts.

The tour then visits the Camera Obscura, founded in the 1800s by Maria Therese Short.

In Ramsay Garden, guests learn about Anna Morton Geddes, a pioneering social reformer.

Writers’ Court highlights female authors like Naomi Mitchison and Susan Ferrier.

The Surgeons’ Hall is the site of the 1870 Surgeons’ Hall Riot, showcasing the struggles of the Edinburgh Seven, the first female medical students in Britain.

The tour culminates at the Chrystal Macmillan Building, a tribute to the first female science graduate of Edinburgh University.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no specific dress code. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves exploring outdoor areas around Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour. Participants are advised to be respectful of the historical sites and fellow guests, and to avoid disturbing the guide’s presentation.

Are There Any Refreshment or Restroom Breaks Scheduled on the Tour?

The tour does not include scheduled refreshment or restroom breaks. However, participants are encouraged to take breaks as needed along the route, which is mostly downhill with some steep areas. Restrooms may be available at select stops.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private or Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private or group bookings. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate the specific needs and interests of private parties or groups. Additional details and pricing are available upon request.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour operator offers discounted rates for group bookings of 6 or more people. Seniors, students, and children also receive reduced admission. Special offers may be available, so customers should inquire when booking to see if any discounts apply.

Recap

The "Edinburgh Old Town: Women’s History Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s remarkable female pioneers. Guided by expert storytellers, participants enjoy a compelling blend of classic sights and lesser-known narratives, honoring the enduring contributions of women throughout history. This tour provides an enriching and enlightening experience for visitors seeking to uncover the hidden stories that have shaped Edinburgh’s past.

You can check if your dates are available here: