Begin your tour at the one and only, Edinburgh Castle

A Storied Fortress.

Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, is a historic fortress that has played a pivotal role in Scottish history. Its commanding position overlooking the city has made it a symbol of power and resilience for centuries.

 

A Rich History

Early History: The site has been inhabited since the Iron Age, with evidence of a hill fort dating back to that period.

Royal Residence: In the 11th century, Malcolm III Canmore established a royal residence on the rock. Over the centuries, it served as a royal palace, a fortress, and a prison.

Wars of Independence: The castle was a key strategic location during the Wars of Independence between Scotland and England. It was besieged and captured multiple times, most notably by Edward I of England in 1296 and recaptured by Robert the Bruce's forces in 1314.

Royal Chapel: One of the castle's oldest buildings is St. Margaret's Chapel, a Romanesque chapel built in the 12th century. It's considered one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh.

The Honours of Scotland: The castle has housed the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish Crown Jewels, for centuries. These include the Crown of Scotland, the Sceptre, and the Sword of State.

Architectural Highlights

Military Architecture: The castle's imposing fortifications, including the Half Moon Battery and the Portcullis Gate, reflect centuries of military engineering.

Royal Apartments: The Royal Palace, built in the 16th century, offers a glimpse into the lives of Scottish royalty.

St. Margaret's Chapel: This small Romanesque chapel, with its simple yet elegant design, is a testament to the castle's long history.

Great Hall: This impressive hall, built in the early 16th century, was used for royal banquets and ceremonies.

Edinburgh Castle continues to be a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Its dramatic setting, coupled with its historical significance, makes it one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks.

 

Walk down the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a historic street stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood house. It's a captivating journey through the heart of the city's Old Town, offering a glimpse into centuries of Scottish history and culture.  

Key features of the Royal Mile:

Historic Architecture: The street is lined with stunning medieval buildings, including towering tenements, ancient churches, and historic shops.  

Hidden Closes: Explore the narrow, winding alleyways that lead off the main street, offering a glimpse into the city's hidden past.  

Vibrant Atmosphere: The Royal Mile is bustling with activity, with a mix of shops, restaurants, pubs, and street performers.  

Cultural Attractions: Discover world-class museums, art galleries, and historical sites, such as the Scottish Parliament Building and St. Giles' Cathedral.  

Festivals and Events: The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh's famous festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Edinburgh International Festival.

 

Stop at the famous St. Giles Cathedral

St Giles' Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is a prominent landmark in the city's Old Town. Its history is intertwined with Scotland's turbulent past, having witnessed key moments like the Scottish Reformation. 

Architecture:

The cathedral showcases a blend of architectural styles, primarily Gothic. Its most striking feature is the ornate crown steeple, added in the 15th century. This unique structure, topped with a gilded crown, is a symbol of Edinburgh. The interior is adorned with intricate stained-glass windows, including the vibrant "Martyrs' Window" commemorating those who died for their faith.

History:

Founded in the 12th century, St Giles' has served as a place of worship for centuries. It played a significant role during the Scottish Reformation, with John Knox preaching there. The cathedral has also been the site of royal coronations and state occasions. Today, it remains an active church and a popular tourist destination.

Key Features:

Crown Steeple: The iconic symbol of Edinburgh, added in the 15th century.

Thistle Chapel: A masterpiece of Scottish Renaissance architecture, housing the stalls of the Order of the Thistle.

Martyrs' Window: A vibrant stained-glass window commemorating those who died for their faith.

John Knox's Pulpit: From which the renowned reformer preached.

St Giles' Cathedral stands as a testament to Edinburgh's rich history and religious heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland's past and present.

   

Experience the Close's off the Royal Mile 

Mary King's Close 

The Real Mary King's Close is a hidden network of streets beneath the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. It was once a thriving community, but it was abandoned in the 17th century and forgotten for nearly 300 years. In the 1990s, the close was rediscovered and restored, and it is now a popular tourist attraction.

Here are some things to know about the Real Mary King's Close:

It is a network of 16th-century streets that were once home to over 3,000 people.

The close was abandoned in the 17th century due to the plague and the construction of the Royal Mile.

The close was rediscovered in the 1990s and restored to its original state.

It is now a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can learn about its history and culture through guided tours.

The Real Mary King's Close is a fascinating place to visit, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in Edinburgh's history.

 

Brodie's Close

 

Advocates Close

 

Dunbar's Close

Dunbar's Close is named after the Dunbar family, who were wealthy merchants in the 16th century. The Dunbars built a large house at the end of the close, which is now a hotel.