The Royal Mile is a historic and culturally significant street in Edinburgh, Scotland, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is a major tourist attraction, known for its historical sites, shops, and vibrant atmosphere.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.7/5
TripAdvisor: 4.5/5
10 Must-Do Activities:
1. Visit Edinburgh Castle
Why it’s a must: Sitting at the top of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is the most iconic landmark in the city. It offers stunning views over the city and houses important historical artifacts, including the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and catch the One O'Clock Gun firing, a tradition that dates back to 1861. Be sure to explore the National War Museum and St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh.
2. Explore St. Giles’ Cathedral
Why it’s a must: This striking medieval cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is an architectural gem with its iconic crown spire. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and the Thistle Chapel, home to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest chivalric order.
Tip: Take time to admire the ceiling of the Thistle Chapel, which features exquisite wood carvings. You can also climb the cathedral’s tower for one of the best views of the Royal Mile (check for opening times and ticket availability).
3. Discover the Real Mary King's Close
Why it’s a must: Hidden beneath the Royal Mile, Mary King’s Close is a preserved 17th-century street that was buried after the city expanded. A guided tour through these narrow passageways offers a fascinating and eerie glimpse into Edinburgh’s past, including stories of plague, murder, and mystery.
Tip: Tours can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. The tour is family-friendly, though younger children might find some of the tales a little spooky.
4. Visit the Museum of Edinburgh
Why it’s a must: This free museum, located in a series of historic buildings on the Royal Mile, offers a deep dive into Edinburgh’s history. Exhibits include artifacts, paintings, and models that tell the story of the city, from its earliest days to the present.
Tip: Look out for Greyfriars Bobby’s collar and feeding bowl—a tribute to the famous loyal dog who watched over his master’s grave for 14 years. The museum is a great spot for history buffs and families alike.
5. Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Why it’s a must: Located at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace has been home to many historical figures, including Mary, Queen of Scots, and offers a glimpse into royal life.
Tip: Don’t miss the Great Gallery, which features portraits of Scottish monarchs, or the eerie ruins of Holyrood Abbey in the garden. The palace is closed when the Queen is in residence, so check ahead for closure dates.
6. Climb Arthur’s Seat
Why it’s a must: Just a short walk from the bottom of the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that offers incredible views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. The hike is moderately challenging, but the panoramic views from the top are worth the effort.
Tip: If you’re not up for the full hike, consider walking up to the Salisbury Crags, which also offer great views with less climbing. Wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be muddy and uneven.
7. Visit John Knox House
Why it’s a must: John Knox House is one of the oldest surviving buildings on the Royal Mile, dating back to the 15th century. It was once the home of John Knox, the fiery leader of the Scottish Reformation. The museum inside tells the story of Knox’s life and the religious turmoil of 16th-century Scotland.
Tip: The building is small but packed with history. Be sure to check out the wood-paneled rooms and painted ceilings that have been preserved from the 1500s.
8. Experience the Scotch Whisky Experience
Why it’s a must: Whisky lovers won’t want to miss the Scotch Whisky Experience, located near the top of the Royal Mile. This interactive attraction offers a guided tour through the history of Scotch whisky production, including a whisky barrel ride, and finishes with a tasting of different types of Scotch.
Tip: The Silver Tour includes one whisky tasting, but you can upgrade to the Gold or Platinum Tour for more tastings and a more in-depth experience. There’s also a whisky shop where you can buy rare and unique bottles.
9. Explore the Closes and Wynds of the Royal Mile
Why it’s a must: The Royal Mile is lined with narrow closes (alleyways) and wynds, each with its own character and history. These hidden passageways were once the lifeblood of Edinburgh’s Old Town, and many of them lead to fascinating hidden courtyards or historic sites.
Tip: Don’t miss Advocate’s Close, which offers a fantastic view of the Scott Monument, or Lady Stair’s Close, home to the Writers’ Museum, dedicated to Scotland’s literary greats like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
10. Enjoy a Drink at a Historic Pub
Why it’s a must: After a day of exploring, relax at one of the Royal Mile’s many historic pubs, some of which date back centuries. These pubs offer great food, traditional Scottish music, and, of course, a wide selection of Scotch whisky and local ales.
Tip: For a truly historic experience, try The World’s End, a pub located near the old city walls, or The Jolly Judge, a cozy spot tucked down a close. Many pubs also host live folk music in the evenings, adding to the atmosphere.
Official Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/royal-mile-and-grassmarket-p918401
Main Positive Reviews:
A must-visit in Edinburgh! The history and architecture are simply stunning. Great for a leisurely walk and exploring the many shops and cafes.
The Royal Mile is bustling with life and history. Loved the street performers and the beautiful buildings!
So much to see and do! From Edinburgh Castle to Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is packed with attractions.
An amazing experience. The shops are unique, and the historical sites are fascinating. Highly recommend!
Fantastic atmosphere and plenty of places to eat and drink. Perfect for history buffs and tourists alike.
This was a wonderful experience with lots to see and do, excellent street performers, and I loved the bagpipers. It felt very authentic.
The road is lined with ancient buildings, rich in history, and you can fully experience the European atmosphere. This is a must-visit street in Edinburgh.
The street is very clean.
The market offers a variety of goods, from traditional Scottish souvenirs to unique handicrafts.
Main Negative Reviews:
Very crowded and touristy. Prices are high and not many places for locals.
Overpriced and too many tourist traps. Not as authentic as I hoped.
Lots of construction and noise. Difficult to enjoy the historical sites with all the distractions.
Some parts were dirty and unkempt. Could use better maintenance.
It’s a nice street, but the hype is a bit overrated. More commercial than historical.
Very, very crowded.
No place to park, and the prices for food, accommodation, and tourist gifts have skyrocketed.
Overall Analysis
Cost: The average cost for a visit to the Royal Mile can vary based on activities and dining choices. Generally, tourists might spend around £30-£50 per person, including meals, shopping, and entrance fees to various attractions.
The Royal Mile in Edinburgh receives high ratings from both Google and TripAdvisor, making it a highly recommended destination for tourists. The street's rich history, beautiful architecture, and variety of shops and eateries contribute to its appeal. However, some reviews highlight issues such as crowding, touristy atmosphere, and high prices. Despite these drawbacks, the overall experience is positive, with the Royal Mile offering a unique glimpse into Edinburgh's past and present.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Based on the reviews and ratings from Google and TripAdvisor, the Royal Mile is highly recommended for visitors interested in history, architecture, and the vibrant culture of Edinburgh.
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