Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CITY STROLLS
IN EDINBURGH
Because central Edinburgh is compact, walking is one
of the best ways to see it. This is especially true in
the city's Old Town, where narrow passages and
alleys—or in the local vernacular
closes
(pronounced “
clo
-
zes”) and
vennels
—run off both sides of the main street.
Wander down a few of them to appreciate the medieval
feel of the Scottish capital.
9
Beyond Old Town to the north is the classic Georgian-era New Town—
another part of the city that has UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Edinburgh's tourist attractions are also quite close together and the
strolls are intended to offer a good sample of the city's key districts. Aside
from Walk 1, they are virtually circular, so that you end up near to where
you began your walk. Walk 3 is the longest, includes a few hills, and
should be done in segments if too strenuous.
WALKING TOUR 1:
THE ROYAL MILE
START:
Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
FINISH:
Holyrood Park.
TIME:
About 1
1
⁄
2
to 2 hours.
BEST TIME:
Daytime.
WORST TIME:
Late at night.
This walk crosses the historic heart of Edinburgh Old Town, the medi-
eval town elevated to royal burgh by King David I in the 12th century.
Situated on a mile-long ridge, Old Town (whose protective walls were
knocked down and refortified throughout history) is, for many visitors,
the most evocative district in Edinburgh. In large part, the city's current
reputation for beauty and romance rests upon the appearance of the
Royal Mile, which runs along the spine, and its surrounding streets,
which come off it like ribs.
