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Things to do in Lothian

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Masterclass on Scottish kiltmaking in Edinburgh

Join me, the owner of 21st Century Kilts in Edinburgh, for an exclusive tour that melds the traditional and modern worlds of kilt making. I’ll teach you how to style and wear this iconic garment with confidence and pride. • The tour begins in my studio, where you’ll learn about the history of kilts—from Ancient Egypt to Scotland—and the materials, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that go into creating every one. • Dive into the fascinating story of tartan, Scotland’s signature fabric, which evolved from a symbol of clans to a global fashion statement. Every clan has a pattern, and you can discover yours. • I’ll show you how to wear a kilt as you try on traditional and modern styles in our studio. Embrace the comfort and freedom of the kilt, connecting with Scotland’s heritage in a personal way. • Wrap up with a walk around Edinburgh from the Royal Mile to the Old Town. I’ll share how this ancient city’s past shaped tartan traditions, and how the garments continue to connect Scots to their Celtic heritage. This experience is about more than kilts and tartan—it’s a celebration of identity, confidence, and the enduring allure of Scottish heritage.

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An insider’s guide to Edinburgh’s breakdance scene

Edinburgh's creative energy isn’t just found in galleries or theaters—it thrives in the streets, in movement and music. Join us as we teach you breakdancing skills and share the city’s street culture with you. • Get to know us, Billy and Ilya, co-founders of Zero Gravity Scotland, as we introduce you to the philosophy of breaking and what drives our creative journey. • The real fun starts with a dynamic warm-up designed to improve flexibility, endurance, and injury prevention, setting the foundation for movement mastery. • Learn the essentials of breaking, from top rock and footwork to freezes, power moves, and seamless transitions—all tailored to your skill level. • Fine-tune your freestyle, develop your beat control, and gain the confidence to command a cypher like a true B-boy or B-girl. Every session ends with a chance to reflect, ask questions, and receive personalized feedback. Optional: Stay for a group photo and networking to cement your place in Edinburgh’s street dance community.

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Jog through ancient history and landmarks on The Royal Mile

Run the Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh. As we jog, you’ll hear the fascinating stories behind the city’s landmarks. Suitable for all fitness levels, this tour will take us through cobbled streets and vibrant closes (alleyways), and to some gems you might otherwise miss. • We’ll meet at St Giles’ Cathedral, where I’ll explain our route and answer any questions you may have. • Run on and around the Royal Mile, pausing for history and photos. Landmarks include Grassmarket, George Street, and Princes Street Gardens. I’ll also point out some lesser-known charms. • After we finish our run, we’ll cool down with a stretching routine and take a group photo. I’ll recommend more of my favorite local spots. You’ll leave with a healthy glow, an appreciation for Edinburgh history, and several ideas about what to do with the rest of your time here.

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4.94 out of 5 average rating, 1777 reviews

History Lovers Old Town Walk

This is the ideal tour for anyone who wants to learn more than just the basics about Edinburgh's historic Old Town. To start, meet us away from most other tourists, on the edge of Princes Street Gardens, for the best view of Edinburgh Castle in the whole city. This tour will have a bit of everything - you'll learn about the lives of some of the Old Town's most famous and infamous residents, and some gruesome, interesting, and entertaining stories about what the city has seen over the centuries. Along the way, we'll point out some of our favourite spots to pop in for a "wee dram" or pint, so you'll know just where to go once the tour is over. We limit the group size, so it's still a personal experience and you'll be able to chat with your guide and ask questions. Our goal is for you to learn a bit about Edinburgh's history, and have a great time while doing it. We'll do this tour rain or shine, so be sure to watch the weather and come prepared!

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 2648 reviews

Small Group Size Harry Potter walking tour

We'll discover the streets and secret alleyways of the Old Town area of Edinburgh, starting at Edinburgh Castle, then we'll wander down to "Diagon Alley" and find the gravestones of "Voldemort" and some other well known names in the Harry Potter series. We'll also spot "Hogwarts School" of Wizardry and find where the writer found her inspiration from. Learn about the famous and not so famous cafes where J.K. Rowling began her writing career and finished in the realms of luxury. The tour will last approximately 1 hour. However, please allow for an additional 20 minutes if tour runs over depending on group size, photo opportunities and question time. Other things to note The tour will be outdoors, whether rain or shine so come prepared to walk around for over an hour. If it is raining, I suggest to wear sturdy shoes - the graveyard can be muddy. We won't wait if you are late, please arrive 5 mins early. Call me on +44(0)7884558365 *No refunds if late or no show.

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 2193 reviews

Tour of Edinburgh Castle with Live Guide

This tour includes a little of The Royal Mile and a lot of The Castle. Set aside time after your tour to explore. The price advertised does not include the entrance price to the castle, this is because some people book their own tickets in advance. You can purchase castle tickets directly from us at the start of the tour for your convenience. We meet on the Royal Mile and start by giving a little background history to Edinburgh and the Castle to help put everything into context. Moving up to the castle esplanade where you will learn about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and two of the most famous figures from Scottish history; Robert the Bruce and William Wallace. Entering the Castle we stop by the Argyle Battery where you will learn about the 1 o'clock gun. Moving on we head down to the Hospital Square where we get impressive views from the Western Panorama before heading up towards the castle barracks and prisoner of war camp, all these areas have enthralling stories that only a guide can bring to life. We then climb to the top of Castle Rock entering the medieval section of Edinburgh Castle. Here we see the oldest building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel and Mons Meg, a monstrous canon! The tour finishes in the Crown Square which is the heart of Edinburgh Castle and I will tell you all about the daring attacks against this iconic fortification.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 2776 reviews

Whisky and Tales

Let us start by saying the whisky is optional, drink alternatives are available and the cost of the whisky is not included in the £18.00. We do this to make the event as inclusive as possible for drinker, non drinker, whisky lovers and whisky sceptics alike. The whisky or drink alternatives can be added-on on the day. We meet just off the iconic Royal Mile inside a café/bar called Hot Toddy. We have the entire downstairs area reserved for us, ensuring lots of space for the group. During the course of two hours we will sample four outstanding Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from the four major whisky producing regions of Scotland. We will discus some of the history of Scotland and explore the reasons as to why whisky is now so ingrained as a staple of Scottish culture and we have some great tales from Scotland and the world of whisky to share with you. Other things to note This tour departs promptly and we can not wait for guests who are late. Feel free to turn up at Hot Toddy earlier to enjoy some food or drink before the event starts. People under the age of 18 are not permitted on this tour and exceptions can not be made I'm afraid.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 521 reviews

Amazing Edinburgh Photoshoot Experience

For more work - @edinburgh_photoshoots *Price is per person so please book exact number of guests joining. Eg. A couple = 2 guests* Explore the uniquely beautiful Old Town of Edinburgh with your very own personal photographer! We start by meeting in the historic Grassmarket, a central and easy to find location. Places we visit include Victoria Street, The Vennel, Greyfriars Bobby, Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral plus more! During the shoot, we will explore the many hidden, cobbled streets and alleys of the beautifully preserved Gothic Old Town that to me are quintessntially Edinburgh. Along the way, I will give you posing tips to capture stunning photos of your time in this memorable city! Most my guests have never had photos taken before and it's normal to feel a bit nervous or shy at first. I promise that within 15 minutes, you will feel natural and confident! Within 2 to 3 days, I will send you 30 beautifully retouched photos to your email! I run this experience in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly. Feel free to bring any extra accessories or garments to change up your look during the shoot if you wish. Babies under 2 are free.

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 831 reviews

Underground Whisky Tasting at The Lost Close

Whisky 101! An introduction to the history, process, and tasting of our national drink - whisky - all done in The Lost Close, a unique underground space, recently uncovered, in the heart of the Old Town of Edinburgh; we have exclusive access to this historical site, taste 4 whiskies from each of the major whisky producing regions, and hear some of the stories about how whisky came to have such a crucial role in our nations history.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1887 reviews

Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh

The Mountebank Comedy Walk is Edinburgh's completely original 'hysterical and historical' walking tour of Edinburgh's Old Town. Mountebank is the only tour of Edinburgh that is led by a local, professional, stand-up comedian guaranteed to make you laugh yourself silly! The aim is simple, to make you laugh a lot while you learn about Scotland's incredible capital. This is a walking tour that is 'hysterical' and 'historical' you will laugh a lot and you might just learn a little! On this walk around Edinburgh's Old Town I will tell you everything you need to know about Edinburgh, Scotland, and possibly a little you probably didn't want to know about me! Come ready to laugh your wee socks off and mind and bring your best banter :) (PLEASE NOTE: this is a comedy tour aimed at adults with some adult themes and jokes. I’m Scottish and swears are just punctuation marks here.. Suitable for ages 16+) (PLEASE NOTE: I have a Scottish accent and use Scottish words on the tour, so fluent English is necessary to enjoy the tour fully) (PLEASE NOTE: I take my mega friendly dog Brahan aka 'The Bonnie Prince' on the tour, he is the softest, friendliest dog in Scotland but if you have any issues with dogs and would rather he wasn't on your tour please let me know)

4.8 out of 5 average rating, 45 reviews

Edinburgh's Harry Potter Small Group Walking Tour

If you are a Potter fan then this is the day out for you! You will see several beautiful Potter sights in this wonderful city and several locations that inspired JK Rowling to create the wizarding universe that we know and adore today. After we gather at Tron Kirk on The Royal Mile, the first stop of the tour is a view of the historical Waverley Train station. Trains being an iconic part of a young wizards journey. We then head to Edinburgh University Old College, and pop into the Old Town area to see a spooky graveyard & visit a shop down Victoria street which inspired Diagon Alley. We will also have great views of the famous Edinburgh Castle alongside many sights and buildings that inspired JK Rowling when she was writing each of the books including the famous cafe, The birth place of Harry Potter.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 899 reviews

Harry Potter, Haggis & Horrible Histories

Embark on an immersive and interactive Edinburgh Harry Potter Walking Tour that seamlessly weaves together local history, magic, and enchanting castle viewpoints. This engaging 5-star tour brings together our biggest passions in dark history and Harry Potter, all the while making you laugh. Our walking tour kicks off outside the National Library of Scotland, where we delve into the origins of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter saga and explore the potential inspiration behind Diagon Alley. Moving into the heart of the old town, we unravel the chilling history of public executions, marvel at a breathtaking Edinburgh Castle viewpoint, and uncover the secrets of Greyfriars Kirkyard, renowned as one of the most haunted graveyards in the UK. Immerse yourself in J.K. Rowling's creative world as we visit the cafes where she penned her iconic books. Hear the captivating tale of Greyfriars Bobby, whose story unfolds in the same graveyard that inspired four of Rowling's beloved characters. For those concluding the tour after midday, indulge in the optional delight of a deep-fried Mars bar and haggis (recommended but not included). Don't miss the chance to partake in the ultimate Edinburgh Harry Potter and dark history walking tour. All witches, wizards, muggles, and magical creatures are welcome. Secure your spot for this unforgettable adventure now. Happy traveling! Insta - @robcarrtours

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 942 reviews

The Dark Side of Edinburgh

If you want a mundane, humdrum history walk, this is not the tour for you. But... if you want to learn what the tourist industry leaves out? The hidden, gruesome crimes and punishments? The long forgotten twisted, sadistic characters? The thousands of lives painfully lost in the cruel grip of Edinburgh's past? Maybe you are brave enough to learn the truth. Hear of witches, cannibals, murders, thieves, body snatchers, blood thirsty mobs and the devil in disguise. We will explore haunted graveyards, hide up darkened closes, spit on the Heart of Midlothian and bravely face where Edinburgh believed the world ended. You even get a chance to knock on Bloody Mackenzie's door, if you dare! William Burke or Madam McKinnon will guide you through our streets under cover of darkness. They've been dead for almost 200 years and do not take kindly to modern nonsense. They will however, crack your sides with laughter over their dry Scottish wit. And their tales will chill you to your core. Our tours are historically accurate, with a history this dark there's no need to fabricate!

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