The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh

If you’re heading to Edinburgh and want to combine sightseeing with some genuine laughs, the Mountebank Comedy Walk offers a refreshing twist on the traditional city tour. Led by a local stand-up comedian, this two-hour walk takes you through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, blending humorous storytelling with captivating sights. It’s a perfect way to experience the city’s charm and wit all at once.

What we love most about this tour is the authentic comedy delivered by a Scotsman dressed in a kilt—adding a dash of local flavor to every joke. The tour’s detailed storytelling, paired with the vibrant atmosphere of Edinburgh’s streets, offers a memorable experience. But keep in mind, this is not a typical history tour; it’s fast-paced, funny, and sometimes boldly outspoken. It caters best to those with a good sense of humor and an interest in Scottish culture.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family (over 16), this tour offers great value—especially considering the wealth of stories and stunning views you’ll encounter. However, be prepared for uneven cobbled paths and steps, which might pose a challenge for some. Overall, it’s a lively, engaging experience that puts the “fun” into sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Humor: Led by a professional Scots comedian who knows how to keep the jokes rolling.
• Rich Historic Sights: Covers iconic Edinburgh spots like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Greyfriars.
• Great Value for Money: At around $33, you get two hours of entertainment, education, and impressive views.
• Interactive Experience: Feel free to ask questions about Scotland and its history.
• Family Friendly (Over 16): Suitable for most travelers with a good sense of humor.
• Mobility Considerations: The route includes cobbled streets and steps, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Monkey Barrel Comedy

The tour kicks off at the renowned Monkey Barrel Comedy club, where the guide—an actual Scottish comedian dressed in a traditional kilt—greets you with humor and friendliness. Here, your guide teaches some of his favorite Scottish slang, setting a lively tone for the walk ahead. This initial meet-up acts as a bonding moment and a chance to warm up with some local wit before hitting the streets.

Review insights show that many find the humor authentic and relatable. One reviewer notes that the guide’s banter was especially enjoyable, even mentioning that he was the only “Sassenach,” adding a playful touch of Scottish pride.

Walking the Royal Mile

From the starting point, you’ll stroll along Edinburgh’s most iconic street—the Royal Mile. This 10-minute walk is free and offers fantastic views of medieval architecture, street performers, and bustling shops. The guide shares amusing anecdotes and historical snippets, making the sightseeing more engaging than just wandering on your own.

Mercat Cross and St Giles’ Cathedral

Next, the tour moves to Mercat Cross, the historic market area where royal proclamations and medieval punishments once took place. It’s a fascinating glimpse into old Edinburgh’s civic life. Then, you’ll stop outside St Giles’ Cathedral, an architectural gem and religious hub that played a key role in the Reformation. Your guide peppers these sites with humorous takes, making history feel lively and relevant.

Writers’ Museum and Edinburgh Castle

Outside the Writers’ Museum, the guide offers a comic take on Edinburgh’s famous literary figures, giving you a taste of the city’s literary past with a humorous twist. Then, a scenic stop at Edinburgh Castle provides fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the daring raid by Sir Thomas Randolph in 1314.

Grassmarket and Greyfriars

The lively Grassmarket area, known historically for public executions, is now a popular gathering spot with vibrant pubs and shops. Here, the guide shares stories of law and disorder that will make you look at this historic square in a new light. The final stop at Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric locations, famed for its ghosts, the story of Greyfriars Bobby, and its connections to Harry Potter.

Reviewers frequently mention the humorous, sometimes bawdy, storytelling at Greyfriars, which adds an unexpectedly fun layer to the chilling tales and historic significance.

The Experience: What’s Included and How it Works

The tour is designed for small groups—max 20 travelers—which ensures a more personal experience. Your only cost besides the booking fee is the guide’s humor and knowledge; admission tickets to sites like Edinburgh Castle or the Writers’ Museum are not included, allowing you to explore those attractions at your own pace afterward if you wish.

Starting at Monkey Barrel Comedy on Blair Street, your guide will teach you Scottish vocabulary, setting a playful tone. The route meanders through cobbled streets and historic sites, with stops lasting around 10 minutes each. The final stop at Greyfriars is about 15 minutes, giving you time to soak in the spooky atmosphere and snap photos.

Reviews highlight the guide’s deep knowledge of Scottish history (some mention a Master’s degree!), combined with quick wit and bold humor. Many mention how the comedic style is unfiltered and lively, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of cheekiness along with their history.

Pricing and Value Assessment

At roughly $33 per person, this tour offers substantial value. For two hours, you’re not just walking around; you’re engaging, laughing, and learning all at once. The fact that it’s highly rated—a perfect 5-star average from over 1,500 reviews—speaks to its consistent quality.

Compared to traditional walking tours or even entry tickets to major sites, the Mountebank Comedy Walk packs a lot of entertainment and insight into a compact timeframe. If you’re looking for a fun, memorable way to get acquainted with Edinburgh, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy comedy with a side of history, appreciate local culture, and are over 16, as the humor can be quite bold. It suits first-time visitors wanting a lively introduction to Edinburgh’s Old Town, as well as repeat visitors looking for a fresh perspective.

However, those with mobility issues might want to consider the uneven cobbles and steps, as the route isn’t fully accessible. It’s also a fantastic option for groups who want to combine sightseeing with entertainment, making it perfect for friends, couples, or even solo travelers eager to meet others.

Final Thoughts

The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh delivers a unique blend of humor, history, and spectacular views. Led by an animated, knowledgeable guide, the tour makes Edinburgh’s streets come alive in a way that’s both fun and educational. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, enabling plenty of interaction and laughs along the way.

For those who love a good joke, a bit of Scottish slang, and stunning cityscapes, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s especially well-suited for travelers seeking an offbeat, lively introduction to this historic city, with enough humor to keep everyone smiling.

While it’s not a traditional historical tour, the mix of comedy and sightseeing creates an engaging, memorable experience that many reviewers say surpasses standard city walks. If you’re ready to laugh your way through Edinburgh’s old streets, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s strictly for travelers aged 16 and over due to the bold humor and language used.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours.

Are tickets to attractions like Edinburgh Castle included?
No, admission tickets are not included. You can explore these sites afterward at your own expense.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Monkey Barrel Comedy on Blair Street and ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
The route includes cobbled streets and steps, so it may be challenging for some mobility issues.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable footwear is recommended, especially for uneven paths and cobbles.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Is it rain or shine?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Mountebank Comedy Walk offers a highly entertaining, authentic look at Edinburgh’s streets—perfect for those wanting to mix sightseeing with plenty of laughs. It’s a lively, engaging experience that combines the city’s historic sights with a comedic twist, making it a memorable addition to any Edinburgh itinerary.