The Original Free Tour of Edinburgh
Overview
On this 2.5-hour tour, step into the heart of the world’s most atmospheric city and uncover the stories of body-snatchers, rebels and legendary dogs. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll wind your way down the Royal Mile while diving into the dark history of the Grassmarket, the secrets of the Reformation and the duality of a city that inspired Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, brought to life with energy, grit and insider knowledge.
More than just a history tour, this experience is the perfect way to get your bearings in Edinburgh. By the end, you’ll not only understand the layers of this UNESCO city, you’ll know how to spot a real "close," where to find a dram of the best whisky and how to make the most of your time like a true Scot.
This activity includes:
- St Giles’ Cathedral
- Heart of Midlothian
- The real Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
- William Wallace and the Stone of Destiny
- Greyfriars Kirkyard (cemetery) and Greyfriars Bobby
- The Royal Mile
- Edinburgh’s Old Town
- Mercat Cross
- National Museum
- Covenanters’ Prison
- Martyrs’ Memorial
- The Scottish Writers Museum
- Grassmarket
- The Hub
Meeting point
130 High Street (The Royal Mile) on the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close
On arrival
Your Original Free Tour of Edinburgh starts at 130 High Street (The Royal Mile) on the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close, daily in English and Spanish.
Just look for the SANDEMANs Tours team with red umbrellas.
Things to note
This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Please be at your meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
The independent guides who employ us to market their tours have your best interests in mind; while the tour usually includes the sites & stories
mentioned and lasts about 2 hours, your tour may vary depending on what your guide thinks is best for your group.
Free Cancellation
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
