Edinburgh Storytelling Walk: Makars Court to St Giles Cathedral

Skip the rushed crowds and join former history professor Sami - and occasionally our friendly Golden Retriever co-guide - for a relaxed, conversation-led walk through Edinburgh's social history. Rather than a generic checklist, this small-group experience focuses on the human stories of the city's workers, writers, rebels, and historic women. We start in the literary courtyard of Makars’ Court, explore the dramatic Castle Esplanade, and descend the vibrant curves of Victoria Street into the historic Grassmarket. After a moving stop to uncover the true story of the legendary Greyfriars Bobby, we cross George IV Bridge back to the Royal Mile to meet the brilliant thinkers and characters who shaped the city. We finish right at St Giles’ Cathedral with powerful tales of saints and sinners, leaving you with a deep, personal understanding of Edinburgh.

1. 1

   Writers' Museum

   Pass by

   Your tour guide, Sami, will meet you in Makars' Court next to the Writers' Museum. The tour begins by discussing some Scottish literary legends.

2. 2

   Gladstone's Land

   Pass by

   Along your walking tour you will pass by the historic Gladstone's Land.

3. 3

   Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

   Pass by

   Along your walking tour, you will pass by Camera Obscura and World of Illusions.

4. 4

   Edinburgh Castle

   Pass by

   We stop for a bit near Edinburgh Castle where you hear stories of sieges and battles, kings and queens, as well as some mysteries.

5. 5

   The Scotch Whisky Experience

   Pass by

   Along your walking tour we pass the Scotch Whisky Experience.

6. 6

   Victoria Street

   Pass by

   We walk along the picturesque Victoria Street.

7. 7

   Grassmarket

   Pass by

   We stop and talk about historic locals that once experienced drama and intrigue at the Grassmarket.

8. 8

   Greyfriars

   Pass by

   We stop in the iconic Greyfriars Kirkyard where we separate the fiction and falsehoods from the facts, but we promise that you will be moved as Bobby's story will imprint on your heart and soul!

9. 9

   National Museum of Scotland

   Pass by

   We pass by the renowned National Museum of Scotland.

10. 10

    National Library of Scotland

    Pass by

    We walk by the distinguished National Library of Scotland.

11. 11

    St Giles' Cathedral

    Pass by

    Here you’ll hear fascinating tales of saints and sinners, power and punishment, and the strange ways reputations are made (and unmade) in Edinburgh.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.