Private Old Edinburgh Tour – Walk in the Footsteps of Royals and Rogues!

Explore the captivating history of Edinburgh’s iconic Old Town on a private walking tour. Step into the past and uncover the stories behind the winding, cobbled streets, notorious prisons, and legendary figures like Mary, Queen of Scots. Marvel at the imposing Edinburgh Castle as you learn about captivating tales of Scotland’s most renowned historical personalities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a history enthusiast, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the capital’s illustrious past. Prepare to be swept away by the charm and intrigue of this UNESCO-listed gem.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed historic Old Town of Edinburgh, with its winding, cobbled streets and captivating stories about notorious figures.
• Visit three former execution sites, including the Grassmarket and Lawnmarket, to get a grim glimpse into the capital’s violent past.
• Discover the sites where Mary, Queen of Scots, plotted and schemed, and where Bonnie Prince Charlie was imprisoned in the Tolbooth Prison.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a 12th-century fortress with a storied past as a royal residence and military stronghold.
• Learn about the captivating tales and legacies of Scotland’s most renowned historical figures, such as Robert Burns and Alexander Graham Bell.

Tour Overview

This private walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town is ideal for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts who want to explore the UNESCO-listed historic area and follow in the footsteps of notable figures like Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Over the course of 2-3 hours, a private guide will lead you through the city’s ancient alleys and cobbled streets, bringing the past to life with vivid descriptions and archive imagery.

You’ll visit three former execution sites, stand on the site of the notorious Tolbooth Prison, and see Edinburgh Castle from its hilltop perch while learning about the capital’s gory history and its famous Scottish figures.

Exploring the Old Town

As the private tour begins, the guide leads visitors through the winding, cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, immersing them in the city’s rich history.

The tour highlights include:

• Exploring the site of the notorious Tolbooth Prison, where many political prisoners were once held
• Visiting three former execution sites, where visitors can imagine the grim fate that befell those sentenced to death

Seeing Edinburgh Castle from its hilltop perch, a commanding presence that has witnessed centuries of Scottish history.

Listening to captivating stories about famous Scots, such as Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, and Bonnie Prince Charlie, who’ve left an indelible mark on the city’s past.

Historical Figures and Landmarks

The private tour delves into the captivating history of Edinburgh’s most renowned historical figures, taking visitors to the sites where they made their mark on the city’s past.

Travelers will stand on the spot where Mary, Queen of Scots, once plotted and schemed, and visit the former Tolbooth Prison, which once housed notorious criminals like Bonnie Prince Charlie.

The tour also explores the execution sites of famous Scots, providing a grim glimpse into the capital’s gory past.

Along the way, the guide weaves in stories about iconic figures like Robert Burns, bringing Edinburgh’s storied history to life through their triumphs and tragedies.

This immersive experience allows visitors to truly walk in the footsteps of royals and rogues alike.

Execution Sites and Prisons

One of the key highlights of the private tour is the chance to visit three former execution sites within Edinburgh’s Old Town, offering a grim yet captivating glimpse into the capital’s violent past. Guests will stand on the spot where countless criminals, heretics, and political dissidents were sentenced to death by hanging, beheading, or burning at the stake.

The tour also includes a visit to the notorious Tolbooth Prison, once known as the ‘Heart of Midlothian’ and a symbol of the city’s harsh judicial system.

Among the sites explored are:

• The Grassmarket, a former public execution ground
• The Lawnmarket, where the Maiden, a decapitating device, was used
• The Canongate Tolbooth, a former prison and site of public hangings

Viewing Edinburgh Castle

During the private tour, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle perched atop its imposing volcanic crag, dominating the skyline of the Old Town.

From this vantage point, the castle’s strategic location becomes evident, with its 12th-century fortress walls and towers looming majestically over the historic city.

The tour guide shares fascinating stories about the castle’s storied past, recounting its role as a royal residence, military stronghold, and even a prison.

As the tour group gazes up at the castle, they’re transported back in time, imagining the pivotal events and famous figures that have walked these hallowed grounds throughout Scotland’s history.

Stories of Famous Scots

On the private tour, visitors learn captivating tales of Scotland’s most renowned historical figures. From the tragic life of Mary, Queen of Scots, to the celebrated poetry of Robert Burns, the guide brings these famous Scots to life through vivid storytelling.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the tumultuous reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, who was imprisoned in Edinburgh Castle and eventually executed for treason.

• Discussing the inspirational poetry of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard, whose work captured the country’s essence.

• Unveiling the daring adventures of Bonnie Prince Charlie, the exiled Stuart claimant to the British throne, who led the failed Jacobite uprising.

• Delving into the legacy of other celebrated Scots, such as philosopher David Hume and inventor Alexander Graham Bell.

Tour Duration and Meeting Point

The private walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town typically lasts between 2-3 hours.

Participants will meet at the Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, a historic graveyard in the heart of the city’s Old Town.

From there, the knowledgeable guide will lead the group on a captivating journey through the UNESCO-listed streets, sharing vivid stories and historical insights along the way.

The tour concludes at the South Bridge, another iconic landmark in this fascinating neighborhood.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a history enthusiast, this private tour offers an immersive experience, allowing you to explore Edinburgh’s gory past and discover the city’s famous figures up close.

Additional Tour Details

Besides the tour duration and meeting point, this private walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town offers several additional details for participants. Confirmation at the time of booking ensures guests have secured their spot on the tour.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, accommodating visitors with a range of mobility needs. Service animals are also allowed to join the exploration of the historic neighborhood. Conveniently, the meeting point is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for those arriving in the city.

Other key details include:

• Private tour, with only your group participating
• Moderate physical fitness level required
• Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be entirely suitable for children, as it includes content about execution sites and a notorious prison. However, parents can use their discretion based on their child’s maturity and interest in history.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention scheduled restroom breaks. However, the 2-3 hour duration suggests there may be opportunities for participants to use facilities along the route. Visitors should inquire about breaks when booking the tour.

Can We Stop for a Meal or Refreshment?

While the tour does not include scheduled stops for meals or refreshments, there may be opportunities to grab a quick bite or drink along the way. The tour guide can provide recommendations on suitable places to visit during the tour.

Is This Tour Available in Other Languages?

This private walking tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German. Guests can request their preferred language when booking to ensure a tailored and informative experience exploring Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.

Can We Request Special Accommodations?

Yes, the tour operator generally accommodates special requests. Guests can inquire about wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and other needs when booking the tour. The staff strives to provide a comfortable experience for all participants.

Recap

Explore Edinburgh’s captivating past on this private walking tour of the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Uncover the stories behind notorious landmarks, follow in the footsteps of legendary figures, and marvel at the imposing Edinburgh Castle.

This tour offers a compelling glimpse into Scotland’s illustrious history, perfect for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts alike.