Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Usher Hall
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Shopping
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Word Power
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THE ROYAL MILE
This mile-long street earned its regal nickname in the 16th century when it was used by
the king to travel between the castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. There are five sec-
tions (the Castle Esplanade, Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High St and Canongate), the names
of which reflect their historical origins.
Castle Esplanade
Open area outside the castle gates; originally a parade ground, it
forms the stage for the Military Tattoo during festival time.
Castlehill
The short slope connecting the Castle Esplanade to the Lawnmarket.
Lawnmarket
A corruption of 'Landmarket', a market selling goods from land outside
the city. Takes its name from the large cloth market that flourished here until the 18th cen-
tury. This was the poshest part of the Old Town, where many of its most distinguished cit-
izens made their homes.
High St
Stretches from George IV Bridge down to the Netherbow at St Mary's St. It's
the heart and soul of the Old Town, home to the city's main church, the law courts, the
city council and - until 1707 - the Scottish parliament.
Canongate
The stretch of the Royal Mile from Netherbow to Holyrood takes its name
from the Augustinian canons (monks) of Holyrood Abbey. From the 16th century it was
home to aristocrats attracted to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Originally governed by the
monks, Canongate was an independent burgh separate from Edinburgh until 1856.
Edinburgh Castle
CASTLE
