The Tron, Royal Mile

The Royal Mile

Based in the Old Town and within a World Heritage site, the Royal Mile is culturally and historically important to the city and jam packed with things to see and do. A ‘Scots mile’ long, and connecting two royal residences (the Castle and the palace of Holyrood House), it is also home to parliaments old and new, law courts, a cathedral and churches, and a vast range of visitor attractions, walking tours, shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs.

Top Reasons to visit the Royal Mile

  • From the seat of Royalty to the seat of Parliament – discover an area alive with history.

  • Experience award-winning attractions, stunning panoramic views and specialty Scottish shops.

  • Ancient buildings, cobbled closes, hidden gardens and secret underground streets offer an unforgettable visit into Edinburgh’s past.




Getting to The Royal Mile

North Bridge is well served by Lothian Buses. Buses 1, 8, 19, 35 and 37 are just some of the buses that stop there. Alternatively, buses 23, 27, 41, 42, 45, 67 all stop on George Forth Bridge. All stops are within easy walking distance of the Royal Mile. 

One way to get a great view of the castle is on a City Sighseeing Tour. Their Hop-on Hop-off tickets start from £16.00 per person and have 24hr unlimited use. Taking in numerous stops around the city, including all main sights and attractions, and with audio commentaries in 9 languages plus ‘Horrible Histories’ Kid’s Commentary, they’re a great way of exploring the city on 4 wheels. 

In 2019 Edinburgh made history when it became the first city in the UK to join the Open Streets movement, which has seen cities around the world temporarily opening streets to people by closing them to cars, vans and other motorised vehicles on a regular basis. On the first Sunday of every month a number of streets in the Old Town, including the Canongate, Cockburn Street and Victoria Street, are closed to motorised traffic, letting the public enjoy the historic area on foot or by bike.



Share
  • Grassmarket

    Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket is one of the most picturesque and lively areas of the city.

  • New Town

    New Town offers residents an exciting fusion of shopping, dining and architectural splendour.

  • West End

    Tucked away just behind Shandwick Place, the West End Village is one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems.

  • Stockbridge

    With cobbled streets, Georgian architecture, green parks and gardens and mix of shops and restaurants, Stockbridge is one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods.

  • Southside

    Lively neighbourhood filled with museums, theatres and music venues.

  • Tollcross

    A stone’s throw from the city centre, Tollcross is a buzzing neighbourhood with connections to the West End, Grassmarket, Fountainpark and Bruntsfield.

  • Bruntsfield and Morningside

    A paradise of charming cafes, specialist food retailers and charity shops full of vintage and designer fashions.

  • Gorgie & Dalry

    A great destination for a wee day out with the family, or a pitstop to grab a delicious takeaway or a sit-in dessert.

  • Leith

    As far as iconic areas go, they don’t come more legendary than Leith.

  • Portobello

    Explore miles of award-winning sandy beach, ice cream parlours, arcades and beach-side cafes and bars.

  • Corstorphine

    Corstorphine is a great place to stay with hotels, pubs and restaurants to cater to a range of tastes and budgets.

  • South Queensferry

    Head to South Queensferry for the very best views of the River Forth.

  • East Lothian

    Discover vast beaches, captivating wildlife and award-winning attractions in East Lothian.

  • West Lothian

    To the west of the city you’ll find a region rich in heritage, expansive green spaces, and sights so special you’ll recognise them from TV and film.

  • Midlothian

    Midlothian is an area of both natural and industrial heritage. Discover everything from stunning scenery and parklands to historic landmarks and famous filming locations.

  • The Kingdom of Fife

    A short journey over the Forth Bridge into Fife, you’ll find quaint fishing villages, rich history, an unforgettable coastline and Scotland's newest city.

  • Scottish Borders

    Rolling hills, winding rivers and farmland as far as the eye can see – the Scottish Borders are picture perfect. The reach of the region is too vast to be rushed, so we’ve picked some of the best spots to enjoy on a day-trip from Edinburgh.