Posted by Maris on 11th Sep 2024
Top Things To Do And See Along Edinburgh's Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a charming cobblestone street in the center of Edinburgh's Old Town that begs to be explored. It is a historical and cultural playground from the castle to the palace.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle, in all its splendor, sits atop an extinct volcano at the top of the Royal Mile. Get ready to be mesmerized by the castle's captivating history and legends, as well as Scotland's Crown Jewels. When Mons Meg, the one-o'clock gun, roars through the city, put your hands over your ears.
Camera Obscura
Consider visiting the bizarre and amazing Camera Obscura and World of Illusions for an alternative viewpoint on the city. The centerpiece of the attraction is the Camera Obscura, which combines a periscope with a massive pinhole camera to provide breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Enjoy six floors of entertainment where you may explore the magic gallery, get lost in the cunning and deceitful maze, and be amazed by the mesmerizing holograms from around the globe.
The Experience with Scotch Whisky
The Scots are adept at having a great time and are definitely knowledgeable about whisky. Take The Scotch Whisky Experience to learn about the origins and mysteries of Scotland's national beverage from the most informed authorities. Visit the replica distillery to learn everything there is to know about this beloved beverage and take in the world's largest whisky collection, which has more than 3,500 bottles.
Tron Kirk's Royal Mile Market
The Royal Mile Market is a veritable Aladdin's cave of handcrafted goods. The most creative residents create the food, crafts, and artwork in this ingenious pop-up store. Select from our extensive selection of vinyl records, Scottish swords, and one-of-a-kind jewelry and fashionable prints. This little market has added flair because it is housed in the imposing Tron Kirk, built in the 17th century.
The Actual Close of Mary King
Although Edinburgh is a city of secrets, The Real Mary King's Close is a jewel happily not guarded. Deep beneath the Old Town and the Royal Mile lies a network of subterranean passages and chambers called shuts, steeped in spooky legends that have plagued the people since the seventeenth century. Aside from ghosts and goblins, this attraction provides an interesting look into life in Edinburgh from the 16th to the 19th centuries.
Scottish Center for Storytelling
The Scottish Storytelling Centre recreates historical events from a bygone era in Scotland through immersive and sensory storytelling, all from John Knox's house, the last genuine medieval building still standing on the Royal Mile. Its location near the old city gate makes it the best site to listen to the fascinating stories of bygone eras. Additionally, this location hosts the Scottish International Storytelling Festival each October. Don't forget to take in the numerous live events, musical acts, family activities, theatrical productions, narrative walls, and house tours.
The Parliament of Scotland
The location of the Scottish Parliament building next to the palace and the imposing Arthur's Seat at the end of the Royal Mile is only fitting. Granite, steel, and oak combine to form this building's distinctive shapes, curves, and spikes. There's no denying that Enric Miralles' audacious architecture and design make a statement. The varied terrain of the nation and the artwork of renowned Scottish artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh inspired this well-known architect.
Holyroodhouse Palace
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, often known as Holyrood Palace, has been the formal residence of the Scottish Kings and Queens since the sixteenth century. When the flag is at full mast, local Edinburghians will know that Her Majesty the Queen, or someone very important, is in town. The palace was built between 1671 and 1678. There's a fantastic small café and excellent gift shop within this magnificent residence, and some rooms are accessible to the public all year round.
Midlothian's Heart
See The Heart of Midlothian, a heart-shaped mosaic nested beneath the grey cobblestone pavement in the high street area of the Royal Mile next to St Giles' Kirk. The Scots hold great value in this stone, crafted from granite setts. It designates the site of the historic 15th-century tollbooth. The tollbooth has seen several changes during its history, including use as an execution site, an administration center, and a frightening prison. Keep your composure and don't let the sight of residents spitting on this enchanted mosaic worry you—it's a good omen.
The Cathedral of Saint Giles
The elaborate woodwork, towering ceilings, and stained-glass windows make St. Giles' Cathedral a remarkable example of 14th-century architecture. Gaze upon the renowned crown spire, a minor fixture in Edinburgh's magnificent urban landscape. Dedicated to the famous medieval saint of lepers and cripples, Saint Giles is a holy place of prayer. Edinburgh has this devout person as its patron saint as well.