Curious Tales of the Royal Mile – Private Walking Tour

Exploring Edinburgh’s Quirkiest Stories: A Close Look at the Curious Tales of the Royal Mile Tour

This private walking tour through Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile promises more than just the usual sightseeing. Instead, it offers a chance to uncover some of the city’s most unusual and amusing stories, told by a local guide who’s passionate about the city’s strange side. From pet blackbirds being arrested in 1736 to mischievous little girls causing chaos, this tour is packed with tales that will make history feel a lot more lively.

What we love most about this experience is the personal touch—being guided by Moray Grigor, a knowledgeable and friendly native who has curated some of the best stories about Edinburgh’s oddities. It’s a relaxed, intimate way to explore, perfect for those who enjoy learning about a city’s hidden stories rather than just ticking off major landmarks. The only consideration might be the pace; with multiple stops over 4 to 5 hours, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some walking and alleyway exploring.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about local folklore, enjoy a good laugh, or want a deeper understanding of Edinburgh’s eccentric side. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate stories that are off the beaten tourist path, and for anyone seeking a lively, engaging guide who makes history truly come alive.

Key Points

• Authentic stories: This tour is packed with anecdotes collected as far back as 1824, providing a genuine sense of Edinburgh’s past.
• Personalized experience: As a private tour, it’s tailored to your group, with the flexibility to move at your own pace.
• Local guide expertise: Moray Grigor’s knowledge and enthusiasm make the stories engaging and memorable.
• Flexible timing and accessibility: Open daily, with options for group discounts and mobile tickets.
• Value for money: With a duration of about 4-5 hours, the price is reasonable considering the personal guide and unique stories.
• No food included: An optional refreshment stop is available, but food and drinks are not part of the package.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Oddities: A Deep Dive into the Tour

This tour is a carefully curated romp through some of Edinburgh’s most bizarre and entertaining stories, starting just below Edinburgh Castle, a prime spot that sets the historic tone. As you walk down the Royal Mile, the guide—Moray Grigor—takes you into alleys, back courts, and secret corners, each with its own story. The tour’s themes are often humorous, sometimes shocking, and always fascinating, giving you a different perspective on this ancient city.

The First Stop: Castello Di Edimburgo and Its Tales

Your journey begins at the iconic Edinburgh Castle area, where you’ll hear about Bonnie Dundee’s daring escape and Allan Ramsay’s court appeal. These stories aren’t just dry history—they highlight the chaos and conflicts that shaped the city’s past. According to reviews, Moray’s storytelling brings these moments vividly to life. One guest praised his friendly and fun manner, noting how much they learned about Edinburgh’s lesser-known sides, like gang fights and water woes that once plagued the city.

Hidden Stories and Alleyway Adventures

Moving into the narrow alleys and back courts, you’ll discover tales of rebellious pets, couples embroiled in political disputes, and duplicitous businessmen. One reviewer mentioned how Moray’s stories about Edinburgh’s unseen closes transformed the walk into a lively, memorable experience. The stories about a washerwoman’s insistence that David Hume be pulled out of a swamp—and the pet blackbird’s arrest—are just some of the quirks that make this tour stand out.

Historic Churches and Unusual Resting Spots

Stops at St Giles’ Cathedral and Canongate Kirk reveal tales of kings drowning in debt, church prayer-stools being hurled, and eccentric figures buried in unexpected places. One reviewer highlighted how Moray’s knowledge made these stories feel very personal, adding layers to what might otherwise be overlooked landmarks.

The Royal Mile: The Heart of Edinburgh’s Weirdness

The hour-long walk along the Royal Mile is packed with stories of theatre riots, rebellious dancers, and even financial innovations that led to full-scale rebellions. Reviewers note that Moray’s storytelling is both humorous and insightful, turning a typical sightseeing walk into a lively storytelling session.

Special Stories from Canongate Kirk

The final stop at Canongate Kirk adds tales of vengeful poets, royal favorites’ tragedies, and eccentric economists who influenced Edinburgh’s history in surprising ways. Moray’s detailed knowledge shines here, bringing these figures from the past into focus with engaging stories.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to be flexible and engaging, with all guiding and commentary included for the 4-5 hour duration. It’s a walking experience, so comfortable shoes are a must, and you’ll spend much of your time outdoors, exploring alleyways and historic sites. The pace is manageable, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, thanks to Moray’s accommodating style.

The price of approximately $130.75 per person reflects the personalized nature of the experience. As a private tour, it ensures you’re not stuck in a large group and can ask questions or linger at sites that pique your interest. The inclusion of local stories and Moray’s enthusiasm makes this a worthwhile investment if you’re keen on uncovering Edinburgh’s strange side.

The Guide: Moray Grigor

Guests consistently praise Moray for his enthusiastic, friendly approach and deep knowledge of Edinburgh’s little-known stories. One review called him “not just a guide,” noting how he made the experience fun for kids and accommodating to different paces. His passion for the city’s stories is evident, and he’s happy to share personal insights that elevate the experience beyond just a scripted commentary.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour starts outside Castlehill, close to Edinburgh Castle, and ends at Canongate Kirk. It runs daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, giving plenty of flexibility to fit into your schedule. Confirmations are sent within 48 hours of booking, and the tour is weather-dependent—so check the forecast and wear appropriate clothing.

Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to plan a stop for coffee or lunch after your tour. There’s an optional refreshment stop during the walk, but the focus is on stories and sights, so pace yourself accordingly.

For accessibility, the tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. It’s ideal for history buffs, lovers of quirky tales, or those wanting a more intimate, personalized experience of Edinburgh.

The Sum Up

This private walking tour offers a delightful blend of humor, history, and local legend, perfect for travelers who love uncovering quirky stories rather than just ticking off famous sights. Moray Grigor’s engaging storytelling and intimate approach make this experience both educational and fun, often turning Edinburgh’s lesser-known alleys into a stage for fascinating tales.

While the tour’s focus on stories means it’s not a traditional sightseeing walk, it provides a deeper, more personal connection to Edinburgh’s character and eccentricities. The value lies in the quality of storytelling and the opportunity to explore off the beaten path, making it ideal for curious travelers who want more than just surface-level history.

If you’re after an authentic, lively, and slightly mischievous side of Edinburgh, this tour will surely satisfy your curiosity and leave you with plenty of memorable stories to share.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and hear the stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins just outside Castlehill near Edinburgh Castle and concludes at Canongate Kirk, on the lower Royal Mile.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many guests found it engaging for families and children, especially because Moray is accommodating and makes stories fun for all ages.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the tour private?
Absolutely. This is a private experience, so only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized and flexible experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring alleys and historic sites on foot.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not part of the ticket price, but an optional refreshment stop is available during the tour.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Edinburgh?
Yes, Moray Grigor is praised for his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm, bringing Edinburgh’s stories vividly to life.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are available, making it a good choice for friends or family traveling together.

Do I need to book in advance?
Given the popularity, especially 145 days in advance on average, booking ahead is highly recommended to secure your spot.

This tour offers an engaging, authentic way to connect with Edinburgh’s eccentric side. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just love a good story, it’s a memorable journey into the city’s stranger-than-fiction past.