Historic Sites in Edinburgh

Historic Sites in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Historic Sites

Types of Attractions
Sights & Landmarks
Sights & Landmarks
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61 places sorted by traveler favorites
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What travelers are saying

  • Shelly H
    7 contributions
    This is a great tour- totally worth the cost of a ticket. Some may say it is too "touristy" but we really enjoyed our experience. Our guide was great-- lots of really interesting information, and a little bit of drama.
    Written August 11, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Michael G
    Urbandale, IA12 contributions
    Excellent self guided tour with audio guide and interactive controller, good for all ages! Great explanations of current and past royalty.
    Written August 7, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ian L
    Perth, Australia532 contributions
    Simple wandering time is all that's required to enjoy for this scenic and relaxing landscape along the Water of Leith. We enjoyed a blue sky and gentle river, walking along the river from Dean Bridge in July. It is a very old but well maintained part of Edinburgh, just need to stay considerate of the residents living in the area. Make sure you have some reasonable walking shoes just because areas of the path along the river are not sealed. There are lots of interesting landmarks along the way, such as the Rhema Scotland church that is being converted into a function centre as well. On the corner of Queensferry Rd and Bells Brae there is a beautiful old stone house. And the lush green foliage along the banks of the Leith river are full of vocal birds. Not much in the way of cafes so take a bottle of water. This doesn't need a tour guide to enjoy!
    Written August 5, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DunelmArts
    Aberdeen, UK1,094 contributions
    Built in 1796, the Georgian House in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town is a worthwhile vist. It's best to start at the top floor with the introductory film, and work your way down the floors. The staff are all lovely, they will help bring the house to life and answer any questions. I especially liked the first flushing loo! Even the lady in the gift shop explains what the basement was used for. The Raeburn exhibition marking the 200th anniversary of his death is especially good.
    Written August 10, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • ararchibald
    Glasgow, UK47 contributions
    Wonderful day out. Enjoy a short boat trip to the Island then you have about two hours to explore the ruins. There is a small museum and a shop which sells souvenirs and coffees.
    Written August 7, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jouha
    1 contribution
    I visited this Castle on Easter. It was sunny and really relaxing to have a walk with your family or dogs. It is more like a park. Kind staff were giving away easter eggs and beautiful calligraphy for everyone. However it is more like relaxing historical site for locals at weekends, not very suitable for solo tourists.
    Written July 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Edith
    14 contributions
    Super cute area with fun shops! I really enjoyed walking through here. The atmosphere was great and even when walking back late one evening from dinner with my Dad, we felt safe.
    Written July 29, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • SydneyMary
    Sydney121 contributions
    A very enjoyable tour with Roz representing three different eras of the property. The tour was fascinating giving a glimpse of life in the building over the years.
    Written August 9, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Clevlander
    Springfield, IL4,885 contributions
    Historic cemetery and Presbyterian Church with such long and distinguished history. The place feels silent and solemn with people being respectful of the place.
    Written May 4, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • kirstymcg26
    Edinburgh14 contributions
    A very informative and (often darkly) entertaining tour. Our guide, Stew, was very engaging and managed the tone of it all very skilfully.
    Written July 12, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Robin H
    Newcastle upon Tyne, UK152 contributions
    The parliament is located at the bottom of the hill from the St chads cathedral following the royal mile and then Canongate it is opposite Holyrood house estate about a 20-25 minute walk. Look for the unusual modern architecture.
    The entrance is somewhat intimidating with similar security checks to those when taking a flight from an airport. Having said that everyone is friendly and very helpful .
    Staff are happy to direct you to where you want to go and tell you about things you want to see.
    The Parliament is very much a living democracy and there is lots of free information to tell you how it works and how you can become involved and make your views heard if you are a constituent.
    The debating chamber is very impressive and you can climb to the balcony to view debates when the parliament is in attendance or just enjoy the spectacle when parliament is not there .
    There is also a coffee shop and a giftshop which are both very good.
    There is an excellent large format portrait photo of HM queen Elizabeth and a display case of the Scottish honours (jewels of state) near the entrance .
    Written June 17, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jill B
    Stirling, UK239 contributions
    Absolutely stunning, what an impressive view of the house you get driving towards it, it really is something else Lots to see inside the house with information cards in every room. There are guided tours available but I just wandered round myself. Went to the cafe for soup which was delicious. The weather wasn't that great so I didn't manage a walk in the grounds so I will definitely be back for another look around the house and a walk round the grounds.
    Written July 8, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Amy C
    Royal Oak, MI119 contributions
    Definitely a must see. Very cool walking tour and very old. Do not need to be adept at hiking very informative and a must see.
    Written June 2, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mark P
    Hampshire, UK1,649 contributions
    Visited to participate in parkrun. The run goes along the promenade and it's lovely. Flat, wide course.

    Great views over the Firth of Forth. A very peaceful and tranquil area.
    Written April 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • KHolmquist
    Kalmar, Sweden33 contributions
    Very educational and immersive to visit and learn about the Reformation in Scotland. We knew very little about John Knox before this. Nice staff in the reception area. Good change of pace from the busy Royal mile outside. All well worth your time.
    Written July 14, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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