Edinburgh

Exploring Edinburgh’s Royal Mile: From Castle to Close

Few places in the world hold as much history, mystery, and atmosphere as Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Stretching from the imposing Edinburgh Castle at the top to the magnificent Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom, this historic street is packed with stories of Scotland’s past. Whether you’re drawn to grand fortresses or hidden underground secrets, the Royal Mile has it all.

Perched high on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline. It’s one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, and for good reason. Walking through its gates feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient stone walls whispering tales of battles, kings, and sieges.

Inside, you can explore the Great Hall, the Royal Palace, and even see the Honours of Scotland—the country’s Crown Jewels. Don’t miss the Stone of Destiny, the legendary artifact used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs. The panoramic views over Edinburgh from the castle ramparts are breathtaking, making the climb up worth every step.

Every day (except Sundays), you can hear the One O’Clock Gun fire—a tradition dating back to 1861 to help ships set their maritime clocks accurately. It’s a moment that always surprises newcomers and delights history lovers.

After leaving the castle, it’s time to wander down the Royal Mile itself. This historic street is lined with charming shops selling tartan, whisky, cashmere, wool and unique souvenirs. You’ll pass by St. Giles’ Cathedral, with its stunning crown-shaped steeple, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch the sound of bagpipes filling the air.

One of the most fascinating stops along the Royal Mile is The Real Mary King’s Close. Unlike a museum, this is a chance to step directly into Edinburgh’s hidden history, quite literally underground.

Beneath the Royal Mile lies a network of preserved 17th-century streets that were once bustling with life before being sealed off and built over. This tour takes you through these eerie passageways, revealing the lives of the people who lived and worked here hundreds of years ago. From plague outbreaks to ghost stories, the atmosphere is chilling yet captivating.

Guided by costumed characters who bring history to life, you’ll hear incredible stories about the residents of Mary King’s Close. Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of the supernatural, this experience is unforgettable.

On our way back to the hotel, we passed the statue of Greyfriar’s Bobby. No visit to Edinburgh is complete without learning about Greyfriars Bobby, the Skye Terrier famous for his unwavering loyalty to his owner, John Gray. After Gray’s passing in 1858, Bobby faithfully remained by his master’s grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard for 14 years. His devotion made him a beloved figure in the city, and he was even granted a special dog license by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost. Bobby couldnt be burried beside his master as that is consecrated ground so he was buried just inside the courtyard gates.

A statue of Bobby stands at the junction of George IV Bridge and Candlemaker Row, near the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard. The touching story of this little dog continues to captivate visitors, reminding them of the deep bonds between humans and their canine companions.

The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh, a place where past and present merge in the most magical way. From the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to the haunting depths of Mary King’s Close, every step along this historic street tells a story. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or returning for another visit, the Royal Mile never fails to enchant.