Private Tour

Mary Queen of Scots: Edinburgh Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour

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Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

On this self-guided tour, you'll unravel the mysteries and murders surrounding Scotland’s most famous monarch. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Edinburgh's old town.

Have you ever wondered what life was like in Edinburgh during the reign of Mary Queen of Scots? On this walking tour, we’ll explore the hidden corners and the major landmarks in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town through the eyes of Scotland’s most famous monarch. You'll find a new story on every corner while weaving in and out of the narrow, closed, and cobbled streets. I’ll tell you about the murders and mysteries surrounding Mary and how these tragic events unfolded right here in Scotland’s capital.

Along the way, I’ll tell you about two of Mary’s three husbands, Lord Darnley and the Earl of Bothwell, and her lover, David Rizzio. I’ll show you the John Knox House, where the leader of the Reformation is buried, outside St Giles Cathedral. You’ll also hear about his conflict with Mary.

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Tickets to optional attractions en route

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting points

Palace of Holyroodhouse
Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK
The tour begins at the gates of Holyrood Palace. As you face the Palace, you will see the Queen's Gallery. We will start on the left-hand side of Abbey Strand. You can walk up to the black gates but must not enter.

End points

Edinburgh Castle
Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK
The tour ends at Edinburgh Castle.

What To Expect

1

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Starting outside this royal residence, imagine Mary’s court life. Hear the sordid story of Lord Darnley murdering Mary’s lover, David Rizzio, within its very walls.

Admission Not Applicable
2

White Horse Close

As you pass through this quaint courtyard, learn about its historical significance and how Queen Mary kept her horses here.

Admission Not Applicable

Options

Mary Queen of Scots: Edinburgh Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour

Reviews

5.00

1 review

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

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  • Excellent Personal Walking Tour about Queen Mary, Queen of Scots

    Donald T,

    Jun 10, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Worked well and very interesting. GPS works well and automatically starts when you get to the next stop. App also shows how many meters to the next stop while walking there.

From $9.99

5.00
1 review