The Royal Mile is a major tourist destination in Edinburgh, Scotland.
A charming slice of Scottish history and culture or an overpriced, crowded tourist trap? With tartan-clad pipers entertaining the crowds in front of historic buildings, Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is a bit of both.
The busy thoroughfare linking Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Abbey via St. Giles’ Cathedral is arguably the most famous street in Scotland, and a must-visit in Scotland’s capital.
It takes less than 20 minutes to walk the full stretch—which is actually slightly more than one mile!—but with so much to see and do along the way, you’ll need to allow at least a full day to fully explore.
Edinburgh Castle
Perched atop an extinct volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is a fixture of the city's skyline. It offers breathtaking views of the city and hides a rich history within its walls.
Among the treasures housed inside the historic fortress, the Honours of Scotland stand out. These historic regalia—comprising the Crown, the Sceptre, and the Sword of State—are some of Europe's oldest.
Edinburgh Castle is perched high above the city.
The castle’s National War Museum delves deep into Scotland’s tumultuous military history, while the intimate St. Margaret's Chapel is the oldest surviving structure in Edinburgh. Every day except Sundays, a boom from the One O'Clock Gun reverberates through the city, a tradition dating back to 1861.
Mary King’s Close
If Edinburgh Castle is the city’s most visible sight, Mary King’s Close is the complete opposite. Tucked away beneath the bustling streets of the Royal Mile, the attraction takes visitors on a journey into a subterranean city long since lost.
As you step down into the dimly lit corridors and narrow alleyways, you'll be transported back to the 17th century, an era when Mary King’s Close thrived as one of Edinburgh's busiest merchant streets.
The experience is enhanced by keen local storytellers sharing tales from the district’s history. Some tales are heartwarming, shedding light on the community spirit and close-knit relationships of the Close’s residents. In stark contrast, others recount the hardships, from plague outbreaks to the challenges of living in such confined spaces.
Mary King’s Close once thrived as one of Edinburgh's busiest merchant streets.
What truly sets Mary King’s Close apart from other tourist attractions is its authenticity. This is no recreation, it’s a genuine part of Edinburgh’s past.
St. Giles’ Cathedral
The stunning crown steeple of St. Giles’ Cathedral is a distinct feature of the Royal Mile skyline. Founded by King David I, the Cathedral has been a working church for 900 years, a permanent fixture through Scotland’s turbulent religious history.
Inside, the cathedral's vibrant stained glass windows and stone carvings are among the highlights. If you want to participate in a peaceful service just steps away from the crowds of the Royal Mile, they are open to all. Sunday services are at 9.30am and 11am, with a short prayer service held at midday every weekday.
Scottish Parliament
Nestled at the foot of the Royal Mile, the Scottish Parliament represents the nation’s future while paying tribute to its past. The building’s striking avant-garde design, with its abstract shapes and use of local materials, provides a stark but intriguing contrast to the historic district surrounding it.
The modern architecture of the Scottish Parliament against the historic skyline of Edinburgh, ... [+]
While the exterior's architecture might inspire polarizing opinions, the vast, light-filled atriums, innovative wooden motifs, and thoughtfully designed debating chamber are more popular features.
The Parliament is very much a working building, often buzzing with lively debates and committee sessions. For those with a keen interest in politics and governance, guided tours during the summer parliamentary recess offer insights into the workings of Scotland’s devolved system.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Conclude your journey along the Royal Mile at its eastern end, where the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands as a symbol of Scotland’s Royal history. As the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, it has played host to many a royal ceremony and banquet over the centuries.
The manicured lawns of the palace gardens, adjacent ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh's ancient volcano, creates a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll.
Holyrood Palace marks the eastern end of the Royal Mile.
The palace itself is open to the public year-round. Highlights include the State Apartments, used by the monarch and members of the Royal Family, the magnificent Great Gallery, and the Throne Room in which George IV welcomed guests in full Highland dress.
Dining and drinking on the Royal Mile
Cuisine on Edinburgh's Royal Mile goes beyond the touristy haggis, neeps, and tatties—though there's no shortage of such traditional fare if you're keen.
The Edinburgh Larder artisan cafe is the place for breakfast, but go there hungry. The full Scottish breakfast will set you up for the day—and then some.
For a traditional lunch on the go, The Haggis Box at the Scottish Storytelling Center gives visitors the chance to sample traditional haggis, or a vegan alternative. Alternatively, $75 will buy you a lavish afternoon tea at the ornate Colonnades inside the wonderfully restored Signet Library.
Booking ahead is essential for a traditional pub dinner followed by a whisky in the bustling atmosphere of The Piper’s Rest, where you can expect live music every night.
You won't walk far along Edinburgh's Royal Mile without hearing a piper.
A few steps away from the Royal Mile under the Edinburgh Arches, The Cocktail Geeks has quickly become a firm favourite among locals. This innovative bar concept keeps things interesting by changing concept every three months, presenting a whole new decor and menu.
Where to stay on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile
For a homely experience, choose one of the 74 luxurious apartments of Cheval Old Town Chambers, just a few minutes’ walk from the castle. From studios to spectacular penthouses, all offer a fully-equipped kitchen.
If you prefer a hotel where everything is take care of for you, the Radisson Blu Edinburgh is perfectly located half-way along the Royal Mile. Facilities include a heated pool, sauna and steam room, an in-room pillow menu, and a lavish breakfast buffet with a la carte options.
