Home / Things to do in United Kingdom / Things to do in Scotland / Things to do in Edinburgh / Edinburgh Tours / Cultural Tours
Mary Queen of Scots: Edinburgh Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour
Select Date and Travelers
Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn More
1 Hours to 1 Hours 10 Minutes
Mobile ticket
Overview
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.
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 point
Select a meeting point
The tour ends at Edinburgh Castle.
What To Expect
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 Ticket Free
White Horse Close
As you pass through this quaint courtyard, learn about its historical significance and how Queen Mary kept her horses here.
• Admission Ticket Free
Canongate Kirk
Walk through this ancient churchyard where David Rizzio is reportedly buried. The kirk’s peaceful ambiance belies the drama that unfolded during Mary’s reign.
• Admission Ticket Free
Discover the intrigues of Huntly House and hear about the Gordon Earl’s plan to kidnap the Queen. This historic building offers a glimpse into the political machinations of the time.
• Admission Ticket Free
Mercat Cross
Pause at this traditional market cross, a focal point for public announcements. Imagine proclamations being read out here during Mary’s reign.
• Admission Ticket Free
John Knox House Museum
See the house of Mary’s adversary, John Knox, and learn about his intense conflict with the queen. This house is one of the oldest in Edinburgh.
• Admission Ticket Free
St Giles' Cathedral
Stand outside this grand cathedral where John Knox is buried. Hear about his fiery sermons against Mary and the Reformation's impact on Scotland.
• Admission Ticket Free
Royal Mile
Stroll along this historic thoroughfare, absorbing the medieval atmosphere. The cobbled streets and narrow closes transport you back to the 1500s.
• Admission Ticket Free
Lawnmarket
As you walk past this vibrant section of the Royal Mile, learn about its historical significance. The bustling market area was central to life in medieval Edinburgh.
• Admission Ticket Free
Riddle's Court
Pass by this historic courtyard where Mary’s court once met. The beautifully preserved architecture offers a window into the past.
• Admission Ticket Free
Gladstone's Land
Admire this 17th-century tenement and hear about daily life in Mary’s time. The restored rooms offer insights into how people lived centuries ago.
• Admission Ticket Free
Witches well
Reflect on this poignant memorial to those accused of witchcraft. Learn about the dark history of witch trials in Edinburgh.
• Admission Ticket Free
Edinburgh Castle
End your tour in the shadows of this majestic fortress. Discover where Mary’s son, James VI of Scotland, was born and hear about the castle’s strategic importance.
• Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please bring your own smartphone and headphones
Operated by VoiceMap Audio Tours
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
Compare Similar Experiences
Eiffel Tower Skip The Line Summit with Host
0
50 Minutes
Free Cancellation
From ₹
Eiffel Tower Skip The Line Summit with Host
0
50 Minutes
Free Cancellation
From ₹
Eiffel Tower Skip The Line Summit with Host
0
50 Minutes
Free Cancellation
From ₹
Why you are seeing these recommendations
Customers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Eiffel Tower Skip The Line Summit with Host
from ₹6,261.98Recently viewed