royal visit in edinburgh

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King and Queen visit to Edinburgh July 2023: events

Details of events taking place on 5 July to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla, including timings and viewing opportunities.

Scotland will mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla on Wednesday 5 July, during Royal Week in Edinburgh. 

The King, accompanied by The Queen, will be presented with the Honours of Scotland at a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication at St Giles’ Cathedral. This will follow a people’s procession on the Royal Mile.

Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay will also attend events.

How to watch the events

You can watch the events on television. You can also listen to the National Service of Dedication and Thanksgiving on BBC Radio 3

If you want to watch the people’s procession in person, there will be viewing opportunities along the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

If you are planning to attend:

• public transport will be very busy so plan your journey in advance – more information below
• allow plenty of time to get there as there will be limited space on pavements along the Royal Mile (access to key areas may be restricted for safety reasons)
• be prepared to stand for a number of hours in changeable weather

1315: People’s Procession leaves Edinburgh Castle Esplanade

1330: People’s Procession arrives at West Parliament Square

1340: The Honours of Scotland (Crown Jewels) leave the Castle Esplanade under military and police escort

1340: Military bands and Household Cavalry Mounted Regiments depart from Palace of Holyroodhouse to West Parliament Square 

1350: The Honours arrive at West Parliament Square

1405: Royal Procession leaves the Palace of Holyroodhouse 

1410: Royal Procession arrives at St Giles’ Cathedral

1415: National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication begins - order of service attached

1515: Service ends

1520: King and Queen exit St Giles. Royal Gun Salute from Edinburgh Castle

1540: RAF flypast

Travel 

Public transport in areas where ceremonial events are taking place will be very busy.  As a result, journeys may take longer than usual. 

People are encouraged to plan journeys in advance and check routes before travelling. Information is available from Traffic Scotland

In the interests of public safety and to increase public access to ceremonial events there will be road closures around the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Further information is available from the City of Edinburgh Council . 

People’s Procession

A People’s Procession of around 100 people representing aspects of Scottish life including charities and public services , will process from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral.

The People’s Procession will be escorted by The Royal Regiment of Scotland, their mascot Corporal Cruachan IV (a Shetland pony) and supported by cadet musicians from the Combined Cadet Force Pipes and Drums, 51 Brigade Cadet Military Band.

A wide range of organisations in Scotland will take part in the Procession.

People's Procession: organisations taking part

• Angus and Dundee Battalion ACF
• Assembly of the Feudal Baronage
• Boys Brigade
• Bonnet Makers & Dyers
• British Veterinary Association Scottish Branch
• Cairngorms National Park Authority
• Candlemakers
• City of Edinburgh Council School Crossing Patrol
• College of Master Kilt Tailors
• Clydeview Academy
• Duke of Edinburgh's Award
• Girls' Brigade in Scotland
• Glasgow Life – Museums
• Heraldry Society of Scotland
• National Museums Scotland
• National Piping Centre
• National Trust for Scotland
• National Services Scotland,
• Northern Lighthouse Board
• Police Roll of Honour Trust
• Princes’ Foundation
• Princes Trust
• Representation for the Refugee Community
• Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews
• Royal British Legion Scotland
• Royal College of Nursing Scotland
• Royal College of Psychiatrists
• Royal Company of Merchants of The City of Edinburgh
• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• Royal Mail Group
• Royal Pharmaceutical Society
• Royal Scottish Highland Games Association
• Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dance
• Royal Yacht Brittannia Edinburgh
• Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
• Scottish Ambulance Service
• Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
• Scottish Fishermen's Organisation
• Scottish Parliament
• Scottish Tartans Authority
• Scottish Youth Parliament
• Scouts Scotland
• Skinners & Glovers
• St Andrew's First Aid
• Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs
• Trades Houses of Scotland

Honours of Scotland

The Honours of Scotland are the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain which have been present at many of the major royal ceremonial events over the past five centuries. 

The Honours will be brought by vehicle from Crown Square to the Castle Esplanade and down the Royal Mile to St Giles Cathedral by the Lyon King of Arms, Marchmont Herald and Carrick Pursuivant. 

They will be escorted by The King’s Body Guard for Scotland, the Royal Company of Archers and a Guard of Honour formed by contingents of the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force. 

Royal Procession

The King and Queen and Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay will travel from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral in a Royal Procession. 

The Royal Procession will be preceded by musical accompaniment from the Royal Marine Band (Scotland), the Pipes, Drums and Bugles of the 2 nd  Battalion and mounted troops from the 1st Division of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication

The National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication will take place at St Giles’ Cathedral. 

The Stone of Destiny will be in the Cathedral for the service. 

Three pipers from His Majesty The King’s former school Gordonstoun will play for The King at St Giles’ Cathedral.  

The Congregation will be made up of people from various walks of life in Scotland including the First Minister, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Political Party Leaders, the People’s Procession, Church and Faith Communities and the charity and voluntary sectors.

See order of service attached.

Gun Salute and RAF Flypast

A 21-Gun Salute will fire from Edinburgh Castle at the end of the St Giles’ Service, before the Royal Procession travels back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

The 21 Gun Saluting troop will be 12 Regiment Royal Artillery.

There will also be a fly past by the Red Arrows following the event.

St Giles’ Cathedral service - order of service added.

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King Charles to visit Edinburgh for Scottish Parliament's 25th anniversary celebrations

King Charles to visit Edinburgh for Scottish Parliament 25th anniversary celebrations. Saturday, September 28 commemorates 25 years since the reconvening of the Scottish Parliament.

• 21:20, 9 SEP 2024
• Updated 21:22, 9 SEP 2024

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The King will visit Edinburgh later this month to address the Scottish Parliament during its 25th anniversary celebration.

The event, taking place on Saturday, September 28, commemorates 25 years since the reconvening of the Scottish Parliament.

Charles and the Queen will attend and meet First Minister John Swinney and other party leaders ahead of the King’s speech in the chamber.

They will then meet people from across Scotland nominated by MSPs as “local heroes” for their extraordinary contribution to their communities at a parliamentary reception.

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Scottish Parliament presiding officer Alison Johnstone, who will make opening remarks in the chamber ahead of the King’s speech, said: “25 years of the Scottish Parliament marks a significant milestone in the country’s political journey.

“I am delighted that Their Majesties The King and The Queen will join us to mark this special occasion.

“This anniversary offers the perfect opportunity for us not only to reflect on the last 25 years but to look to the future and consider how Parliament can continue to best meet the needs of those it serves.

“A cornerstone of this commemorative event will be about recognising the extraordinary contribution people from right across Scotland have made, and continue to make, to their own communities.

“I look forward to welcoming people from all over Scotland for a day of reflection and celebration.”

Ms Johnstone will meet the King and Queen on their arrival, along with the deputy presiding officers and the Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh.

The Mace and Crown of Scotland will be carried into the chamber as part of a procession to a fanfare sounded by musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

The late Queen presented the mace to the Scottish Parliament at its official opening on July 1 1999 accompanied by Charles and Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh.

The crown is the centrepiece of the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, and was placed on the late Queen’s coffin as it lay in state in Edinburgh.

Following the King’s address, the First Minister and other party leaders will make speeches.

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Performances by the charity Sistema Scotland, Coisir Alba singers and musician Calum McIlroy will be interspersed throughout the session.

As the King and Queen leave, young people from across Scotland will form a guard of honour outside Parliament, lining part of their route to the nearby Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The King and Queen attended the motion of condolence at the Scottish Parliament for the late Queen in 2022.

They also attended the opening ceremony in 2021.

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The Complete Guide to Walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 22, 2024

Discover what not to miss while walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh in our complete tour of this iconic route.

If you want to see the highlights of Edinburgh while immersing yourself in history, there’s no better way than to walk the Royal Mile. This route stretches between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and is actually a little over a mile long. 

This guide will lead the way when you want to take a self-guided walking tour in Edinburgh. Covered here is what to see and do en route, including what to look out for. Of all the best walks in Edinburgh, this has to be number one!

When walking this route, we recommend you start at the castle and work your way down towards Holyrood. This means you get to take a downhill walk, instead of an upward slog. As the route ends close to Holyrood Park, you could also take a post-walk break there while enjoying the scenic views. 

If you do want to visit the castle, you can also do that before it gets too busy. But you can of course take the walk in any direction you like!

From the ultimate Edinburgh self-guided walking tour to where to stay and eat, plus our top tips and FAQs, read on. Here’s where to go and what to see on the famous Edinburgh Royal Mile. 

Best tours and tickets along the Royal Mile

Edinburgh castle, the scotch whisky experience, camera obscura and world of illusions, alleyways along the royal mile, gladstone’s land, heart of midlothian mosaic, st giles cathedral, the real mary king’s close, john knox house and moubray house, the museum of childhood, the chocolatarium, the people’s story museum, canongate kirk, scottish parliament building, palace of holyroodhouse, holyrood park, makars gourmet mash bar, cheval old town chambers, the inn on the mile, radisson blu hotel, wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers, carry a rain jacket and/or umbrella, bring a water bottle, pack a picnic, what is the royal mile in edinburgh, where is the royal mile in edinburgh, how long is the royal mile in edinburgh, when will you be walking the royal mile in edinburgh.

⭐️ Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket to Edinburgh Castle

⭐️ Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour

⭐️ The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

⭐️ Real Mary King’s Close Guided Tour

⭐️ Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

⭐️ Palace of Holyroodhouse Entry Ticket

⭐️ Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour

The Ultimate Edinburgh Royal Mile Walking Tour

Edinburgh Castle is incredibly rich in history, and in the past, has been home to a succession of Scottish monarchs. Tour it today and you can see the ancient buildings, the Crown Jewels, and of course the sweeping city views from the top. 

Standing proudly on an elevated site above the cobbled streets of the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle is the perfect starting point for your Royal Mile walk. 

Click here to book tickets for Edinburgh Castle

After leaving the castle, one of the first sites you’ll pass on the Royal Mile is the Scotch Whisky Experience. This popular visitor attraction shares the story of Scotch whisky . You can take tours, shop, dine, or attend tastings here. 

Tickets including tastings and a tour are very popular, and cover five Scottish whisky-making regions. 

Click here to book tickets for the Scotch Whisky Experience

Close to the Scotch Whisky Experience is Camera Obscura and World of Illusions . This appeals to people of all ages, featuring five floors of illusions, scientific wonders, and interactive experiences. 

Don’t miss the alleyways that you will see along the Royal Mile! Look out for Advocates Close (for that great view of Scott’s Monument) and other wonderfully named passageways.

I did a fabulous tour a few years ago to learn all about the dark history of the Royal Mile which included exploring more of these fascinating alleys.

Gladstone’s Land is one of the Royal Mile’s oldest buildings. You can go inside to discover what life was like centuries ago, and view original costumes and other exhibits. Don’t forget to look up, so you can see the stunning ceiling frescoes dating from 1620. 

There’s also a cafe and ice cream parlour on the ground floor. 

The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic on the Royal Mile is in front of St Giles Cathedral. This spot was once the entrance to the city’s Old Tolbooth. It’s said to be good luck to spit on the heart, so don’t be surprised if you see football fans doing just that!

One of the key sights along the Royal Mile, the Cathedral of St Giles is the Scottish answer to London’s Westminster Abbey. Look out for the stained glass window featuring John Knox, an influential preacher who spread the word for Protestantism and the Church of Scotland. 

The church is open to everyone, has been a working house of worship for around nine centuries, and is the venue for important services, including those involving the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, and the Kirking of the Parliament. 

Free walking tours are offered daily, at 10.30 am or 2.30 pm.

Just past St Giles’ is the real Mary King’s Close. It’s beneath the Edinburgh City Chambers building. It’s the only 17th century street in the city, and you can tour it to imagine what life for Mary King, and other residents, must have been like. 

The close allows you to immerse yourself in four centuries of history, and has been named as Scotland’s Best Heritage Tourism Experience.

Click here to book tickets for the real Mary King’s Close

Moubray House and John Knox House are conjoined, and dating from 1470, together form the Royal Mile’s oldest mediaeval building. Knox didn’t actually stay here for long, but it’s his association with it that means it’s still standing. 

If you go in, look up at the The Oak Room ceiling to find the hidden devil. John Knox House forms part of the Scottish Storytelling Centre.

Whether you’re travelling with kids or want to please your inner child, the Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile is a must. It’s free to enter, too, with a suggested donation of £3 per person. 

Exhibits span the period from the 1800s to today, and include toys, games, books, dolls, and even clothes.

Just off Cranston Street on the Royal Mile is the Chocolatarium, where you can make and taste all kinds of chocolate treats. A must for chocoholics!

Click here to book tickets for the Chocolatarium

Like the Museum of Childhood, the People’s Story Museum is also free to enter, again with a suggested £3 donation. Objects, images, and stories are used here to tell the tale of the city’s working class residents, between the 18th and 20th centuries. 

The building is interesting too, as it’s a tollbooth dating from the 16th century. 

Canongate Kirk can be found right by the People’s Story Museum. A number of prominent Scots are buried here, and the Presbyterian church dates from the 17th century. See if you can spot the graves of the poet Robert Fergusson and the economist Adam Smith. 

As well as the Kirk, the Parish of Canongate includes the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. It’s used by the Royal Family when they’re visiting Edinburgh. 

The Scottish Parliament Building is at the end of the Royal Mile. It’s a modern structure, and construction commenced in 1999. Talks and guided tours take place here, and the public can also watch meetings, debates, and First Minister’s Questions. It’s always free to visit. 

Whether you enter or not, this bright, contemporary building with lots of curves, windows, wood, and local stone is well worth seeing. 

This royal palace dates from the 16th century, and is also at the end of the Royal Mile, by Holyrood Park. Today this is King Charles III’s official residence, and was also once home to Mary, Queen of Scots. 

The State Apartments, the Throne Room, and the Great Gallery are among the highlights. There’s also a cafe for refreshments. Entry to the palace is ticketed. 

Click here to book tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Whether you want to climb up to Arthur’s Seat or simply unwind with a picnic, picturesque Holyrood Park makes the perfect stop at the end of your Royal Mile walking tour. You can even find a lake, St Margaret’s Loch, in this sprawling park. 

Where to Eat on the Royal Mile

There are lots of restaurants, cafes, and pubs on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, so there’s no shortage of places to eat! You can simply pick one and wander on in, or we do have one recommendation.

This Edinburgh eatery is rated fourth among all the city’s restaurants, which number over 1,600. It’s the place to sample hearty Scottish fare crafted from local ingredients. While meaty options of course feature, plant-based alternatives are available.  

Mashed potatoes are of course the speciality, served with a huge variety of flavourings and toppings. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is situated on Bank Street, close to Lawnmarket. 

Where to Stay on the Royal Mile

Here are some suggestions if you want to find hotels on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. We also have a guide to where to stay in Edinburgh if you would prefer an alternative location.

These deluxe apartments are only five minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Castle. There are studios, or apartments with up to three bedrooms, some with balconies. They’re luxuriously appointed and offer superb Royal Mile views. Breakfast is available daily, and there’s a gym and 24-hour reception desk. 

Click here to book Cheval Old Town Chambers

This is a four star, landmark property offering three floors of accommodation. Luxury rooms come with large flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and even GHD hair stylers. There’s a bar serving pub food and drinks, and you can also order room service. The castle is just five minutes away on foot. 

Click here to book the Inn on the Mile

The Royal Mile’s Radisson Blu Hotel comes from a trusted name in hospitality and offers a range of room types. A real perk here is the indoor pool, sauna and gym.

You can also find Itchycoo Bar and Kitchen here, overlooking the Royal Mile. The concierge here is particularly helpful, too. 

Click to book the Radisson Blu

Tips for Walking in Edinburgh

If you’ll be walking in Edinburgh, comfortable footwear is a must! It’s easy to get heels caught in the cobbles, so avoid those. Sneakers for spring, summer and autumn, or walking boots for winter, are good choices to keep you comfortable all day long. 

It can get very chilly in Edinburgh in winter – and surprisingly hot in summer! Dressing in layers is the best way to cope with this, so you’re prepared for whatever conditions the Scottish weather brings. 

As in the rest of the UK, rain is a feature of Edinburgh life. So be prepared by bringing along a packable rain jacket and/or a compact travel umbrella. 

If you visit Edinburgh between late spring and early autumn, you could be surprised by how hot it can get! Even in winter you’ll need to drink water when doing lots of walking, anyway. 

If it’s dry and warm enough, bring along a picnic to enjoy in Holyrood Park at the end of your walk. While there are plenty of shops on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, many are gift shops, so you might like to pick up supplies from supermarkets in the Princes Street area. 

🎧 Listen to the UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode #58 which shares our tips for first-time visitors to Edinburgh

The Royal Mile FAQs

The Royal Mile is a series of streets leading between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood. The route through the city’s Old Town is actually a little over a mile. Along its length you can sample Scotch whisky, see ancient and modern buildings, and visit a range of museums and tourist attractions. 

The Royal Mile is in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It connects Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The streets making up the Royal Mile are Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate, and Abbey Strand.

The Royal Mile is actually slightly longer than a mile. So how long does it take to walk the Royal Mile? It really depends on the stops you make en route. If you walk briskly without stopping, you could make it in under half an hour. 

But in reality, stops and crowds will slow you down! It’s best not to rush this quintessential Edinburgh experience, anyway. 

Walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh is an experience not to be missed! With so much to see and do along the way, it’s best to set out early to make the most of it. Allow at least a morning, but you could easily fill a full day with the sights there are to see. 

Plan ahead if you want to visit popular sites such as Edinburgh Castle, the Scotch Whisky Experience, Camera Obscura, or the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Tickets for the former, in particular, are often sold out, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment on the day. 

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• Edinburgh Travel Guide
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• How to get from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye
• 9 Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours
• 20 Practical Tips for first-time visitors to Edinburgh
• 21 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh
• 27 Things to do in Edinburgh

🎧 Listen

• Episode 88 – Exploring Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard
• Episode 87 – Scotland Adventures with Edinburgh Black Cab Tours
• Episode 73 – Unforgettable day trips from Edinburgh by train
• Episode 63 – 36-hour Edinburgh Itinerary
• Episode 58 – Essential tips for first-time visitors to Edinburgh
• Episode 26 – London to Edinburgh by train

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Top 14 Things to Do in Edinburgh

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh, from stunning architecture and endless winding streets to an awe-inspiring castle perched on a dormant volcano. By day you can admire artworks in galleries and treasured wonders in museums, and by night you can enjoy tours, musical and theatre performances, or find your favourite dram in a charming whisky pub.

Explore Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle and city

Perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, this should be a must-see on your list of places to visit in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle houses important Scottish artefacts, such as the Honours of Scotland -  which are the oldest crown jewels in the UK - and The Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of the Scottish monarchy. Explore the vast castle grounds, take a guided tour with a castle steward, or listen to the audio guide, which is available in eight languages.

Top tip: Tickets often sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. Make sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Listen out for the firing of the One O'Clock Gun from the castle grounds, which can be heard daily (except on Sundays). Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks according to the sound of the shot.

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Discover the treasures of the National Museum of Scotland Edinburgh

The National Museum of Scotland

© VisitScotland / Peter Dibdin

Scotland is known for having unpredictable weather, and if you happen to get caught in the rain you might be wondering what to do in Edinburgh. Visit the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh - and entry is free! With over 20,000 unique artefacts to see, there's something for everyone and fun for all the family. Spend the day learning about the catacombs of Egypt, the wonders of nature and even modern-day technology.

Top tip: If the sun makes an appearance, head up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy amazing views of Edinburgh.

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Climb Arthur's Seat and stroll through Holyrood Park Edinburgh

Friends on Salisbury Crags in Edinburgh

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Perhaps one of the most iconic places to go in Edinburgh is Arthur's Seat, located within Holyrood Park. This ancient volcano sits 251m above sea level and offers 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians. You can see the medieval remains of St Anthony's Chapel or feed the ducks and swans on Duddingston Loch. There's an array of paths and trails to follow, suitable for all, including the trail to St Margaret's Loch which is both wheelchair and buggy accessible.

Top tip: Climbing up to the top of this dormant volcano is hungry work! Why not pack a picnic and enjoy it from the best 'seat' in Edinburgh?

Be amazed at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

This top attraction in Edinburgh is fun for all the family - we dare you not to be amazed, whatever your age. There are five floors of interactive curiosities and illusions to explore, so lose yourself in the puzzling mirror maze or try to keep your balance in the exhilarating Vortex Tunnel.

Top tip: Be sure to get an allocated show time so you don't miss out on seeing the 169-year-old Camera Obscura in action. This Victorian spectacle is a truly unique way to see Edinburgh and takes sightseeing to the next level. 

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Ascend Calton Hill to the National Monument Edinburgh

The Edinburgh skyline viewed from Calton Hill

For outstanding views, get up early and climb to the top of Calton Hill to enjoy the sunrise over the city. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a collection of historic monuments, most notably the National Monument, which was inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.

Top tip: Thinking of staying in Scotland this New Year's Eve? One of the best things to do in Edinburgh at night on Hogmanay is to climb Calton Hill and enjoy the annual firework display above the castle. Many festivals in Edinburgh, such as the Celtic Beltane Fire Festival, are also celebrated here.

Explore the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Edinburgh

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

A trip to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art won't leave you disappointed - whether you're an art lover or not. Comprising two impressive buildings, this top Edinburgh attraction contains masterpieces from the 1900s to present day. Admire art by Matisse, Picasso and Emin, as well as Scottish contemporaries. The landscaped grounds of the galleries feature sculptures by Tony Cragg and Barbara Hepworth, amongst others.

Top tip: After enjoying coffee and a slice of cake in the gallery's cafe, don't miss the recreation of Scottish artist Eduardo Paolozzi's original studio in Modern Two.

Taste the finest drams at Johnnie Walker Princes Street Edinburgh

Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

The flagship Johnnie Walker Princes Street is spread across eight floors and is the capital's newest hotspot, perfect for whisky lovers and novices alike. Complete with dining experiences, bars and a whisky retail area, book your personalised whisky experience where you can explore the flavours of Scotland. 

Top tip: Enjoy world-class cocktails and incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline at the 1820 rooftop bar.

Stroll through Lauriston Castle and Gardens Edinburgh & The Lothians

Lauriston Castle and Gardens

There are plenty of attractions around Edinburgh away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Lauriston Castle and Gardens is the perfect place to go for anyone visiting Edinburgh looking for a piece of Scottish history, as well as peace and quiet. Step back in time as you explore the castle's impressive Edwardian interiors, and don't miss the daily guided tour to learn more about its fascinating history.

Top tip: Enjoy the woodland walk that surrounds the castle, then retreat to the tranquil Japanese Garden, a true hidden gem in Edinburgh.

Brave the Edinburgh Dungeon Edinburgh - City Centre

Edinburgh Dungeon 2021

© Edinburgh Dungeon 2021

Looking for things to do in Edinburgh that are a little unusual? For a thrilling alternative adventure, visit The Edinburgh Dungeons, where you'll learn about the city's gruesome history. Walk the plague-ridden streets of 1645, evade the murderous duo Burke and Hare, and even face trial - good luck! With live actors, underground rides and special effects, you're guaranteed a 'spooktacular' time.

Top tip: The Edinburgh Dungeon often holds Dungeon Late events for adults, so if you're looking for things to do in Edinburgh at night, this could be it.

Launch into space at Dynamic Earth Edinburgh

Dynamic Earth

Looking for somewhere fun to take the kids that's also educational? Dynamic Earth is a fantastic attraction for the whole family to enjoy. The interactive adventure takes brave young explorers on a journey through space and time to learn how the forces of nature shaped Earth over millions of years. 

Top tip: Dynamic Earth is part of the National STEM Engagement Campaign and has a whole host of events for kids to enjoy; check out their website to find out what's on in Edinburgh.

See a show at the Festival Theatre Edinburgh

Edinburgh's Festival Theatre

Edinburgh's Festival Theatre is one of the largest stages in the UK, hosting show-stopping opera, ballet and musical events all year round. Many famous performers have graced its stage, including Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy and David Bowie.

Top tip: Legend has it that the Festival Theatre is haunted by famous illusionist 'The Great Lafayette'. Lafayette lost his life in a fire at the theatre in 1911 and is said to roam the stage to this day.

Enjoy a wee dram at the Scotch Whisky Experience Edinburgh - City Centre

The stunning Diageo Claive Vidiz Whisky Collection

No trip to the Royal Mile is complete without a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience for a dram of fine Scottish whisky. The attraction offers a range of tour experiences that will suit first timers and whisky lovers alike. Take a tour of the virtual distillery and learn about the distilling process, then discover the art of whisky blending in a guided sensory presentation.

Top tip: After you become somewhat of a whisky connoisseur, why not continue into the attraction's Amber Restaurant, where you can enjoy modern Scottish cuisine with another dram.

Go sightseeing from the Scott Monument Edinburgh

The Scott Monument in Princes Street Gardens

The Scott Monument was built in 1832 to commemorate the death of one of Scotland's best loved writers, Sir Walter Scott, and is decorated with carvings of characters from his novels. The Gothic spire stands at the eastern end of Princes Street Gardens and is the largest memorial to a writer in the world, standing at just over 200 feet high. Climb the 287 steps to the top for beautiful views of the city and visit the Museum Room inside the monument, which holds an exhibition on Scott's life and work.

Top tip: Not a fan of heights? Not to worry, you can get a great view of the monument with your feet firmly on the ground from the bottom of the Playfair Steps on The Mound. At the base of the monument, you'll also find a statue of Scott himself with his beloved dog.

Indulge in sweet treats at The Chocolatarium Edinburgh

Chocolatarium visitors with their finished chocolate bars

Looking to add a bit more sweetness to your trip? Just off the Royal Mile you’ll find The Edinburgh Chocolatarium, a place dedicated to all things chocolate. Enjoy a 90-minute guided tour of the chocolate-making process before making your very own chocolate bar where you’ll have lots of toppings to choose from. To finish off, head to the chocolate Tasting Room where you’ll taste a variety of Scottish and international chocolates. Now that sounds like chocolate heaven!

Top tip: Make sure to stock up on your favourite chocolate bars at the gift shop. You'll find all the classics including some interesting flavours such as gin and tonic dark chocolate and haggis.

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Inside Holyrood Palace: The Queen’s Official Residence in Edinburgh

It’s always fun and interesting to visit castles and palaces, but it is even more special when you get to visit an actual working palace.  I was excited to have the opportunity to tour the Palace of Holyrood House , the Queen’s official residence when she visits Edinburgh.

We would also visit the ruins of the Holyrood Abbey and the Holyrood Gardens, where the Queen throws an annual Garden Party.  Setting foot in a place where the Queen stays makes me feel more connected to the royal family, there is also a real sense of history here.

Let me tell you more about what you can expect when you go inside Holyrood Palace.  If you can’t visit in person, you can check out some of the State Rooms in a virtual tour here .  See more online tours of royal residences here .

Note: This post contains affiliate links.  Please see disclosure for more information.

About Holyrood Palace

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The name Holyrood comes from the old word “rood” which means cross.  The abbey was the first building on the site so it makes sense that it was called Holy Rood.  The palace was built next to the Abbey and is the home of Scottish Royal History.  

It has been a royal residence for 500 years!  Some of the history of Holyrood Palace is reflected in the impressive collection of portraits, especially in the Great Gallery, and also many (over 60) very large and beautiful tapestries, some brought from Buckingham Palace.

The Queen’s main Official Residence is, of course, Buckingham Palace , which I got to tour in the Summer of 2019.  On the weekends, her official residence is Windsor Castle .  When she comes to Scotland each July to open the Scottish Parliament, her home is the Holyrood Palace .  She also has an official residence in Northern Ireland called Hillsborough Castle .  All these residences are owned by the crown.

Self-guided Tour of Holyrood Palace

When we went to Holyrood Palace, we took the self-guided audio tour.  Not only do you get to go inside the palace, but you also get to visit Holyrood Abbey and the Gardens.  Let me share the highlights from our visit.

When you go through the gate to Holyroodhouse Palace, you enter the castle yard. This large open space is designed to show the palace building off to maximum dramatic effect. It’s worth taking the time to stand back and admire the architecture of the palace, it is an impressive and imposing building.

Right in front of the castle, you will see a fountain (it wasn’t on when we were there), be sure to go close and admire the details.  Towards the back of the yard, you will also find a statue of Edward VII.  After admiring the pieces of art, we took a few Holyrood Palace pictures including some fun ones in the sentry posts, and headed inside.

Before you go inside Holyrood Palace, you visit the courtyard.  You can see that the building is laid out in a quadrangle.  The design is classical, with different columns on each level that get more ornate on the higher floors.  It was in this courtyard that Zara Phillips, the Queen’s granddaughter and Mike Tindall, the former England Rugby Player had their wedding reception.

Note: The photos of the Palace rooms included in this post have been provided by the Royal Collection Trust.

Royal Dining Room

Next, you move inside and up the Great Stairs into the Royal Dining Room which has been used since the time of Queen Victoria.  When we visited, the room was set up with the table that the Queen dines at which can be expanded to seat up to 30 people.  It was interesting to learn that the Queen sits at the middle of the table and not the head.  This way it is easier for her to talk to more people.

The Throne Room

Then you move into the Throne Room, which originally was the Guard Room, but got its name from the two thrones in the room.  The Thrones were commissioned by George IV.  

I almost missed these because my eyes were drawn to the large portraits on the walls.  Charles II who is responsible for how the palace looks today and James I of England (also known as James VI of Scotland) are among the monarchs who have portraits in this room.  

The Queen hosts her lunch for the Knights and Ladies of the Order of the Thistle, the highest order of chivalry in Scotland, in this room.  You will see and learn more about the Order of the Thistle throughout Holyrood Palace tour.

The Morning Drawing Room

King’s bedchamber.

Next, you go through the King’s Ante Chamber, the most important waiting room of the palace, before entering the King’s Bedchamber.  Of course, the focal point of the King’s Bedchamber is the beautiful bed, but the king would not sleep there.  

The room was more a show of power and status.  The artwork on the wall of the Greek deities and the elaborate ceiling help reinforce the King’s stature.

The Grand Gallery

The Grand Gallery is the room where the Queen holds State functions, including investitures – among others, Sean Connery was honored here.  ‘Grand’ is about right! This room is long, elegant and the walls are covered with 96 portraits of Scottish monarchs.

Holyrood Palace has been a focal point of a number of conflicts with the English.  On one occasion, some of the paintings in the Great Gallery were damaged by the English.  While they did their best to repair the portraits, you can still see the damage on some of them.  It wasn’t blatantly obvious though, I had to get a warden to point it out to me.  

They also had a TV set up playing the Highlights of Holyroodhouse video, which included some ceremonial footage with the Queen including some of the Holyrood Garden Party .

The Queen’s Lobby and Ante Chamber

In the Queen’s Lobby they have some of the jewelry and regalia for the Order of the Thistle on display, as well as other honours, such as medals given to those honoured as Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE), or Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE).  

Next, you enter the Queen’s Ante Chamber which is the oldest part of the castle.  You can tell by looking at the windows and seeing how thick the walls are.  They must be about four feet thick.

Mary Queen of Scots at Holyrood Palace

Lastly, you visit the area of the palace that was Mary Queen of Scots’ apartments.  She is a controversial figure and I have been fascinated with her since I read the Other Queen by Philippa Gregory .  

The first room is Queen’s bedchamber which contains a bed worth over £20,000 so it is kept behind glass and in low light to protect the fabric. Mary married her second husband, Lord Darnley in this room.

Next, you have to go up 25 spiral steps to the Mary Queen of Scots bedchamber.  You can see the French influence that Mary brought with her from her time in France.  

The room was significant not just because Mary Queen of Scots lived in it but also because Lord Darnley had her secretary, Rizzio, murdered here.  Lord Darnley was jealous of Rizzio’s relationship with Mary.  The rebels stabbed Rizzio 56 times!

The final room you visit is Mary Queen of Scots Outer Chamber.  This is the room where Mary, a devout Catholic prayed.  It also had some interesting artifacts including Mary Queen of Scots hair, the Darnley Jewel, a letter written by Mary, and the Holyrood Ordinal.  The Holyrood Ordinal is a prayer book that reminded me of the Book of Kells .

As part of your admission, you also get to visit the Holyrood Abbey, or really its remains.  The ruins of the abbey were depicted in the painting called the Ruins of Holyrood Chapel by the French artist, Louis Daguerre.  

The Abbey is located directly behind Holyrood Palace and was founded in the 12th century.  The original abbey included more buildings (cloisters, dormitory, etc) than the Holyrood Abbey ruins you see today.  By 1500, the Holyrood Abbey was one of the largest and most impressive monasteries in Scotland. 

This church was also used for royal ceremonies, including the coronation of James V (Mary Queen of Scots father) and Charles I.   In the 18th century, the roof collapsed and they decided it was too costly to repair especially since there was another church on the Royal Mile.

Even just seeing the ruins, you can tell the Holyrood Abbey Church must have been a magnificent building.  The columns that still stand are huge and I loved the detail design of the windows.  I can just imagine how beautiful the stained glass must have been.  In some ways, it reminded me of Walsingham Abbey .

If you head to the back corner, you will find the Royal Vault which holds the remains of James V, his Queen, and other royals.  Surprisingly, it is not an elaborate tomb. 

In 1688, the tomb was violated by rioters.  Queen Victoria ordered it repaired in 1898.  I didn’t recognize any of the names on any of the other graves that are located throughout the Holyrood Palace Abbey .

The Palace Wardens give tours of the Holyrood Abbey every hour, just ask a warden for details. 

Queen Elizabeth II hosts her annual Holyrood Garden party here for 8,000 guests.  As I walked along the path, I dreamed about attending that party and what it must be like.  I also thought about how pretty the garden would be in the summer with everything in bloom.  

We stumbled upon a nice sculpture and took in the views of the palace, abbey, and Holyrood Park.  As we got close to Holyrood Abbey, we could see some more of its ruins buried under the grass.  I tried to imagine what the Abbey would have looked like in its prime.

Entrance to the Gardens is included with your admission ticket to Holyrood Palace.  During most of the winter, the gardens are only open to visitors on the weekends, however during December and the rest of the year, the Holyrood Palace Gardens are open daily.  

If you purchase the Royal Visit ticket, it includes the Garden History Tour. During this tour, you get to go off the path and see the Jubilee Border (planted in celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee), Queen Mary’s sundial, and ha-ha (a trench at the edge of the garden, which creates a barrier without blocking the view of Holyrood Park).

Other Things to See at Holyroodhouse

There are a few other places that I wanted to mention that are not part of the audio tour.

When you exit the palace into the Mews Courtyard, you will find the cafe.  They serve afternoon tea (or Champagne afternoon tea if you prefer) along with a selection of soups, salads, main courses and home-baked cakes. On a nice day you can sit outside with nice views of Edinburgh Holyrood Park .  

If you have a party of five or more, you are advised to book in advance.  Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit the Cafe, but I would love to do a Holyrood Palace afternoon tea next time.

After visiting the Palace, we went back inside the gift shop to the Queen’s Gallery.  During our visit, the special Holyrood Palace exhibition was about Prince Albert’s four-month visit to India and the gifts he brought back.  Prince Albert made the trip to help improve relations with India and to meet with the Maharajas .  

As you might have guessed the gifts displayed were very gold, artistic, and beautiful.  One of my favorites was the dagger which had pearls inside that moved with the dagger.

The Holyrood exhibition , Splendours of the Subcontinent, was on display until April 22, 2018.

You will walk through the Holyrood Palace shop to get to the ticket desk and the Queen’s Gallery, but if you are a fan of the Royal Family like me, you should browse a bit.  

They had some beautiful china, nice teas, and biscuits (cookies for my fellow Americans).  I was tempted to buy the china that was made to commemorate the Queen’s 70th wedding anniversary but wasn’t sure if we had room in our bags.

If you happen to be visiting the palace during the holiday season, you are in for a treat. The festive decorations include a 15-foot-high Christmas tree in the Great Gallery, and the Great Stair leading to the State Apartments will be draped with velvet garlands, glistening berries, and seasonal foliage.

During this time, adults can take special evening tours and there is a special Christmas trail for the kids.

We enjoyed our visit to the Palace of Holyrood House, it’s definitely one of the things you must do in Edinburgh .  I thought it was fascinating to set foot in the Queen’s Scottish residence, a place where several important historical moments took place.  

Even Russell , who is a history buff, learned a lot from the audio tour.  It was engaging and full of interesting Holyrood Palace facts .  The wardens in each room were helpful in answering my questions.  

I just wish that you were allowed to take photos inside the palace.  UPDATE: Since our visit, they have changed their policy so photography and filming for personal, non-commercial purposes is permitted.

Read more reviews of the Palace of Holyroodhouse on Tripadvisor here.

Logistics for Your Visit to Holyrood House

The Palace of Holyrood House is located at the end of what is called the Royal Mile across the street from the Holyrood Scottish Parliament building.  At the other end of the Royal Mile, you will find Edinburgh Castle .  The address for the Palace of Holyrood House is Canongate, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX.  

If you are using public transportation, you can take the train to Edinburgh Waverley Station and it is a 15-minute walk.  To take the bus to Holyrood Palace , use bus numbers 6, Skylink 300, or the hop on hop off tour bus which all stop near the Palace.  

If you are driving, there is public parking near Holyrood Palace in the Holyrood Palace car park .  

In general, the Holyrood Palace opens at 9:30 am.  In the winter (November 1 – March 31), the last admission is at 3:15 pm and they close at 4:30 pm.  In the summer, they stay open until 6 pm so the last admission is 4:30 pm.   The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Since Holyrood is a working royal palace, they do have to completely close at times like when the Queen is in residence.  Be sure to check the website for up to date Holyrood Palace hours .

You have several options for Holyrood Palace tickets .  You can either get the standard admission (£16.50 for adults) which includes admission to the Palace, Gardens (on the path only), and the Abbey.  

If you prefer, you can get the Royal visit (£24.50 for adults) which also includes admission to the Queen’s Gallery where special exhibitions are held and a Garden History Tour.   Note: The Royal visit is not available as the Queen’s Gallery is temporarily closed (as of December 1, 2021).

All options include an audio guide and all tickets can be converted to a free one year pass to return to the Palace of Holyrood House for the ticket holder.  You just sign your ticket and get it stamped when you leave.

If you want to visit all the Royal Attractions in Edinburgh – Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, and Royal Yacht Britannia – consider purchasing the Royal Edinburgh Ticket.  You can save up to 25% compared to buying tickets for the attractions separately.   Click here for more information about the Royal Edinburgh Ticket .

Note: Holyrood Palace prices are accurate through December 31, 2021.  Please check the website for the most up to date information.

You may be wondering if you should bring the kids to Holyrood Palace. The palace does offer family tickets that include admission for two adults and three under 17.  

We did not see any children during our visit but they did have free booklets with activities for kids inside the courtyard to help keep them entertained.  Also please note that for safety reasons, strollers are not allowed inside the palace and must be checked.

Yes.  If you are interested in the Royal Family or Scottish history, it is a fascinating place.  Those passionate about art and architecture will be inspired by the lavish rooms.  You can save money on your admission with the Royal Edinburgh ticket if you plan on visiting the other royal sites in the city.

Have you visited Holyrood Palace or another one of the Queen’s residences?

Tell me about your experience in the comments.

– Anisa

Pin for Later

• If you have questions about anything you see at the palace, just ask the wardens.  I found them very helpful.
• No photography is allowed inside the palace.
• You should allocate three hours if you plan on doing the Royal Visit.  If you are just seeing the Palace, Abbey, and the Gardens (path only) then I would plan 1 ½ hours.
• If you have time, go for the Holyrood House afternoon tea at the cafe.  Book ahead if your party is five or more.
• Also check out more ideas for romantic things to do for couples in Scotland .

Disclosure: We would like to thank the Holyrood Palace for hosting our visit and providing photos of the rooms inside Holyrood Palace. As always, opinions are my own.

This post also contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you.  Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit.  The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.

Two Traveling Texans is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Last Updated on April 27, 2023

About the Author

Anisa  

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

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Royal Mile Visitor Guide

The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and one of the most iconic streets in Scotland. It runs downhill between two significant historic buildings: Edinburgh Castle at the top and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom. The Royal Mile is approximately one mile long and is home to a number of major attractions, including St. Giles Cathedral, the Camera Obscura, and Mary King’s Close.

There aren’t many streets in the world that are tourist attractions in their own right, but Edinburgh’s Royal Mile easily takes that title thanks to its fascinating mix of architecture and history. Threading its way through the heart of the Old Town, the Royal Mile is a one-mile cobbled and paved road that links Edinburgh Castle at its top to Holyrood Palace at its bottom.

While most tourists view The Royal Mile (known locally as The High Street) as simply a means to walk between the castle and the palace, the road is an integral part of Edinburgh’s heritage, allowing visitors to see some of the oldest buildings in the city such as the Tolbooth Kirk, Gladstones Land, and John Knox House , amongst others.

The Royal Mile has been described as looking like a fishbone when viewed from the air, with the main road as the spine and the many alleyways that spur off it as the ribs. If you haven’t spent much time in this part of the city, I recommend leaving behind the tourist hordes to explore some of these hidden alleyways, as many are unchanged from the Victorian era.

Alternatively, if you’d rather be shown around by a professional, you can sign up for a tour with one of the guides hanging around the rear of St. Giles Cathedral near the Mercat Cross. These tours are reasonably priced and are the best way to discover the history of the murders, plagues, and riots that were part of everyday life in the Old Town in years gone by.

If history doesn’t interest you, you’ll be pleased to know that The Royal Mile is also a tourist hub for shops, pubs, and restaurants that sell a variety of Scottish gifts, food, and drinks. If you want to purchase genuine Scottish cashmere and Harris Tweed clothing, drink Scottish-brewed beer, or buy a bottle of premium Scotch whisky, the Royal Mile has something to offer you.

While some of the eateries are overpriced and serve low-quality food, there are a few jewels in the crown on the Royal Mile, such as The Witchery , which is located just below the Castle Esplanade. If you decide to sample the food there, be sure to try their legendary Scottish beef dishes, but bear in mind that the prices are quite steep compared to most other restaurants in the city.

In addition to its attractions, the Royal Mile makes a great base to explore Edinburgh. To the north is Princes Street (the main shopping street in Edinburgh) and the New Town, with the pubs and bars of Rose Street nestled between the upmarket restaurants and shops of George Street.

Beyond the west end of the Royal Mile, there isn’t much for tourists, but if you head in the opposite direction, you’ll find the enormous green expanse of Holyrood Park . The park is centred around an extinct volcano and is a miniature slice of the Highlands in a 650-acre green space that features a couple of lochs, sweeping cliff faces, and the highest point in the city, Arthur’s Seat, which features stunning views from its summit

If you’re limited in time and just want to explore the Royal Mile, I recommend starting at the castle and then visiting the Scotch Whisky Experience, the Camera Obscura, the Museum of Edinburgh, the Childhood Museum, and the palace.

The Highlights

1: Where to begin? Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace top the list for most people but there are lots of other attractions on the Royal Mile including The People’s Story Museum, The Museum of Childhood, John Knox House and St. Giles Cathedral.

2: This road in the heart of the city allows easy access to the best sights. If you do nothing else, you’ll have an enjoyable time just walking from the top to the bottom (or vice versa).

3: The Old Town is one of the best-preserved mediaeval districts in Europe. Stunning architecture and a dizzying number of historic attractions can be found from start to finish.

Visiting Tips

1: As a major tourist destination, the Royal Mile is well-served by public transport, with several bus routes passing nearby. It’s also a pedestrian-friendly zone, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably on foot.

2: Throughout the year, the Royal Mile is a focal point for festivals and events, with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival taking over the street in August. Street performers and vendors create a lively atmosphere, and all of the street shows are free to watch, though donations are requested.

3: The best way to experience the Royal Mile is to join a tour. You can turn up at the Mercat Cross outside St. Giles Cathedral and speak to the guides that hang around there, or book online. Mercattours.com has been going for years, and they’re very good at making Edinburgh’s history come alive.

ROYAL MILE AUDIO TOUR : Click here to purchase

Tourist Information

There’s a vast amount of things to see and do on The Royal Mile, and visitors can find attractions all the way along it, but for the sake of simplicity, I’ll mention the best ones heading from the palace at the bottom to the castle at the top.

First, of course, is the Palace of Holyroodhouse . This grand building is filled to the rafters with priceless works of art and royal memorabilia and also features a separate art gallery as well as a superb café and gift shop. It’s a must-do if you’re in Edinburgh.

Across the road is the Scottish Parliament building which is actually quite an interesting place to visit as they have guided tours that will tell you all about Scotland’s parliament and its relatively new headquarters. It’s free to get in but the security is a bit of a pain to get through, although that’s understandable as you’ll be able to view live debates in the main chamber.

Continue west, and you’ll find Canongate Kirk on the right, which is a beautiful old church with a graveyard that was favoured by the infamous Burke and Hare grave robbers. On the same side of the road is the People’s Story Museum which is dedicated to the tales and culture of the city’s past residents. It’s completely free to visit and is well worth an hour of your time, just like the Museum of Edinburgh across the road, which houses a collection of exhibits relating to the history and legends of the city.

The next point of interest is 1,000 feet up the road, where you’ll find The World’s End pub, which is situated on the (now-demolished) edge of the infamous Flodden Wall . The pub is a nice place to stop off for a quick dram or two before crossing the road and exploring the John Knox House . John Knox was well known for his political battles with Mary, Queen of Scots in the 1500s, and his house is one of the last remaining mediaeval buildings that survived the Victorian demolition of the Old Town.

Across the road, you’ll find the Museum of Childhood in a nondescript building that’s easily overlooked. The museum delves into the stories of the toys and culture of the last 100 years, and you’re bound to find something that’ll bring back fond memories, whether it’s an original Stretch Armstrong or those creepy porcelain dolls with the eyes that follow you around the room.

Walk another hundred or so yards towards the castle, and you can’t fail to miss St. Giles Cathedral which is another must-visit attraction in Edinburgh. The cathedral is quite beautiful inside, and it’s free to enter, although they do ask for donations, and there’s a mandatory fee to take photos.

Opposite the cathedral is the most famous close on the Royal Mile – The Real Mary King’s Close – which is waiting to transport you back in time to another world when Edinburgh’s poorest residents lived in unimaginably bad slums. Some of these underground dwellings have been unearthed and you can go on a tour around them, although I personally prefer the underground vaults tour offered by Mercat Tours .

The Heart of Midlothian, a heart-shaped mosaic, is located on the pavement outside St. Giles Cathedral, which marks the location of the 15th-century tollbooth where Edinburgh’s residents had to pay extortionate taxes or face cruel punishments. Such is the hatred of the tollbooth that the tradition of spitting on the mosaic continues to this day, even after the building was demolished in 1817.

After you’ve had a hearty spit on the Heart of Midlothian yourself, cross back over the road to enter Makars Court, which is a tranquil courtyard set back from the hubbub of the main road, where you’ll also find the thoroughly underrated Writers Museum. This museum displays exhibitions and original works from Scotland’s most famous writers – Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson – and it’s a great place to visit if you have an interest in Scottish literature.

After you’ve looked around the writer’s museum, try to find the ornately carved paving stones in Makars Court, and then tilt your head up to marvel at the architecture of the hundreds-of-year-old multi-story tenement buildings that are one of the defining features of the Edinburgh cityscape.

Continue towards the castle and you’ll pass Camera Obscura and World of Illusions , which is a tourist attraction from Victorian times that features mind-bending mirror mazes, holograms, and optical illusions.

After that, there’s The Scotch Whisky Experience where you’ll be able to join a variety of guided tours that will explain the origins of the legendary spirit as well as give you a sample or two to try. In addition to a whisky barrel ride, there’s an enormous whisky collection, tasting rooms, a very good café, and one of the best whisky shops in Scotland.

The last port of call on this one-mile journey is Edinburgh Castle which doesn’t really need an introduction. The castle is Scotland’s top visitor attraction and regularly draws over two million tourists each and every year through its portcullis.

There’s more than enough to see and do at the castle to keep a family occupied for an entire day, with museums, military exhibitions, priceless jewels, cafés, restaurants, and shops nestled inside the walls of one of the world’s most formidable fortresses.

Things to Do

Explore Edinburgh Castle: Dominating the city’s skyline, the historic Edinburgh Castle houses the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish crown jewels) as well as several museums and memorials. It’s the most-visited attraction in the country and offers a fascinating journey through Scotland’s past.

Visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: This five-floor attraction is a wonderland of optical illusions and interactive exhibits. Discover the magic of light and colour and see Edinburgh in a new way through the 19th-century Camera Obscura. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city.

Walk the Royal Mile: Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is a historic street in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely stroll, gaze at medieval architecture, and explore various shops, restaurants, and pubs along the way.

Discover St Giles’ Cathedral: Known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, St Giles’ Cathedral is a stunning Gothic church dating back to the 14th century. Admire its beautiful stained-glass windows, explore the historic Thistle Chapel, and try to find the grave of John Knox in the car park.

Experience the Scotch Whisky Experience: A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without tasting a wee dram of its most famous export, whisky. Learn about the various whisky regions, take a barrel ride through the production process, and then participate in a tasting with a whisky expert.

Things to Do Nearby

Edinburgh Castle . Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG. 8-minute walk from St. Giles Cathedral. This is Scotland’s most-visited tourist attraction. This 11th-century castle and barracks house the Scottish crown jewels and is the location for the National War Museum. It also features popular attractions like the Mons Meg cannon and the One O’Clock gun.

Holyrood Palace . Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DX. A 13-minute walk from St. Giles Cathedral. Holyrood Palace is the monarch’s official residence in Scotland. The palace is open to visitors who can explore the royal rooms on a self-guided tour. Tickets include a visit to The Queen’s Gallery and Holyrood Abbey.

St. Giles Cathedral . High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE. Grand, Gothic-style cathedral that is open to public viewing when religious sermons are not in session. Entry is free. Guided tours are available.

The Scotch Whisky Experience . The Royal Mile, 354 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NE. A 5-minute walk from St. Giles Cathedral. Popular tourist attraction on  The Royal Mile  that celebrates Scotland’s whisky traditions with tastings, a whisky barrel ride and guided tours. Shop and café on site.

John Knox House . Scottish Storytelling Centre, High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR. A 5-minute walk from St. Giles Cathedral. A 15th-century preserved townhouse that is believed to have been the home of the Protestant preacher John Knox. Includes historic displays and exhibitions that can be viewed on a self-guided tour. Joins onto The Scottish Storytelling Centre which has a café and gift shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the royal mile.

Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle are two locations that royalty frequently visited, and the Royal Mile is a historic road between them. The road is approximately one mile in length, hence the name.

How long does it take to walk the Royal Mile?

The Royal Mile takes approximately 25 minutes to walk from Holyrood Palace at the bottom of the incline to Edinburgh Castle at the top.

Is The Royal Mile Pedestrianized?

The Royal Mile is open to traffic but is temporarily pedestrianized during busy tourist times such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

What visitor facilities are there at The Royal Mile?

Food, drink, and toilets are located in the pubs, bars, and restaurants on The Royal Mile.

Is the Royal Mile actually a mile long?

No, the Royal Mile in Edinburgh is not actually a mile long. The name “Royal Mile” is a nickname given to the road that runs between Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom.

The actual distance between these two points is approximately one Scottish mile, or 1.06 standard miles (1.7 km). The usage of Scottish miles was abandoned in the 18th century.

Related Posts

Museum of Childhood Visitor Guide

Parish Church of St. Cuthbert Visitor Guide

Scottish Parliament Building Visitor Guide

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Visitor Guide

The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh’s Old Town

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Forget Edinburgh — we stayed in Glasgow. It was cheaper and less touristy, with gorgeous gardens and architecture.

• My family recently went to Scotland. We visited Edinburgh but spent most of our time in Glasgow.
• We loved how friendly the people were there and there was so much to do.
• It was also less touristy than Edinburgh, and we got more for our money.

Sure, Edinburgh has the castle atop the Royal Mile, but the often-overlooked Glasgow is just as fun, less crowded, equally beautiful, and offers plenty to do for families.

My family has dual citizenship in the US and UK, and we recently returned to Scotland for the first time in six years. On our recent trip back, we visited Edinburgh but spent most of our time in Glasgow, which we prefer (though I may be a little biased, as I married a Glaswegian). Here's why.

Glasgow offers unique family attractions

Edinburgh has tons of tourist attractions, but Glasgow has its own set of treasures. Families can navigate the Glasgow mural trail to spot stunning street art, visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, known for its unique floating heads installation in the atrium, or explore the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel.

There are also so many parks and playgrounds, and while I love perusing Scotland's best shopping streets, my little one loved the carnival-style rides at the nearby St. Enoch Center.

Our favorite family adventure this year was hopping on the Waverly (the world's last seagoing paddle steamer) from the Glasgow Science Center as it voyaged down the River Clyde into the Firth of Clyde. The boat was every bit as gorgeous as the Scottish scenery.

Glasgow is beautiful, too

Edinburgh is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Glasgow is just as beautiful , but you need to know where to go.

Buchanan Street, flanked by pretty Victorian and Edwardian buildings, is the perfect pedestrian promenade for shoppers. Ashton Lane in the West End is our favorite evening spot. It's a cute, cobble-stoned alley with a twinkly-lit ceiling surrounded by restaurants, pubs, and a small movie theater.

The Glasgow Cathedral, with its signature spires and iconic green roof, is impressive no matter how many times you've seen it. The nearby Necropolis is a Victorian cemetery with fantastic views of the city from its summit.

Pollok Country Park in Glasgow's Southside is the city's largest park and probably the most beautiful. At the same time, a tranquil stroll along the River Kelvin Walkway in the West End is a picturesque woodland escape for adventure-loving families .

Glasgow University is another worthwhile attraction. With its Gothic-revival-style architecture, Harry Potter fans will feel like they're stepping into Hogwarts.

Glasgow is cheaper than Edinburgh

Glasgow offers cheaper accommodations and more affordable food options. We stayed at hotels in Glasgow and Edinburgh, with the former being substantially cheaper.

And while there are plenty of amazing, award-winning restaurants in Glasgow, the city is also the Gregg's capital of the UK, which is a cheap and cheerful bakery chain known for their flaky, savory pastries and sweet treats. We found ourselves there for morning coffee and bacon rolls more times than we'd like to admit.

If you're on a budget, Glasgow is the clear winner.

It's hard to beat a football match in Glasgow

Two Glasgow teams, Celtic and Rangers, are the most successful (and popular) soccer teams in Scotland. Book tickets in advance to catch a game at either Parkhead or Ibrox. The players on the pitch will undoubtedly entertain, but the supporters will provide an experience your family will never forget.

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Glasgow is friendly, less crowded, and not as touristy

After a crowdsourced campaign in 2013 consulted thousands of people, "People Make Glasgow" became the official city brand slogan. Strangers in Glasgow don't really feel like strangers for long.

Glasgow is also known for its humor, perfectly illustrated by the city's Duke of Wellington statue. For over 40 years, this iconic figure has sported an orange traffic cone on its head. I got such a kick out of it as a kid, and now my son does, too.

And while Edinburgh is a smaller city, it attracts more tourists than Glasgow. In Edinburgh, we dodged the crowds as we walked up and down the Royal Mile and around other tourist hot spots. Glasgow was a breath of fresh air and easier to explore with a kid.

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