Stretching from Edinburgh Castle at the top to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom, the Royal Mile is more than just a tourist destination. It is the beating heart of the Old Town. Taking a wee wander down this historic street is one of the unmissable things to do in Edinburgh for every visitor.
It is one of our favourite places in Edinburgh. The Royal Mile is famous for its fascinating past and rich architecture. Also, it is home to several popular museums and historic sites in Edinburgh.
Every August, during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, this area transforms into a live stage for street performers, magicians, and musicians. It is chaotic, colourful and completely unforgettable.
Despite its name, the Royal Mile isn’t exactly a mile—it’s a “Scots mile,” slightly longer than the standard mile. From volcanic ash to political turbulence, medieval struggles to enlightenment wit, this medieval street has seen war, plague, protest, and progress.
Take your time here. Wander the cobbled lanes, peek into hidden closes, and feel the past come alive around every corner. You might even hear whispers from long ago drifting between the stone walls.
So, whether you want to marvel at medieval architecture, dive into its mysterious stories, or pause to listen to a lonely bagpiper play, every step in the Royal Mile has an enchanting story to tell.
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh
1. Explore the Colourful History of Edinburgh Castle
Crowned over an ancient volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most visited places in this city. It sits at the top of the Royal Mile.
From royal intrigue and bloody battles to national pride, this mighty fortress has a turbulent past. It was once the home of many Scottish Kings and Queens.
There is so much to see here. In the Crown Room, you will find the Honours of Scotland, which includes the Crown, Sceptre, and Sword of State. Take a wander around the Great Hall, St. Margaret’s Chapel, the Royal Palace and the National War Museum of Scotland.
Also, from the castle promenade, you can admire the superb view of the sprawling cityscape, Pentland Hills and the faraway Firth of Forth.
We would suggest allowing at least 2-3 hours to explore Edinburgh Castle.
2. Be Captivated by the Grandeur of the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Located at the end of the Royal Mile, next to Arthur’s Seat, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is another popular attraction in Edinburgh. This grand palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
From the riveting stories of the legendary Mary, Queen of Scots to modern royal traditions – this site showcases the grandeur of monarchy with fascinating history.
Once here, wander around the lavishly decorated rooms used by the royal family for official events. The most exciting part is visiting the Mary, Queen of Scots Apartments, which remain mostly unchanged since the 16th century. Also, don’t forget to visit the atmospheric ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
3. Discover Centuries of History at St Giles Cathedral
You can’t walk along the Royal Mile and ignore the stunning architecture of St Giles Cathedral. With its roots stretching back nearly 900 years, this cathedral deserves a rightful place in your Edinburgh Itinerary.
Situated at the heart of the Royal Mile, it stands as a testament to the religious and political history of Scotland. The original church was founded around 1124, during the reign of King David I.
When you are in Calton Hill, look out for the unique crown-shaped spire of this cathedral. It is a distinct part of the Edinburgh skyline.
The most exquisite and ornate part of St Giles Cathedral is the Thistle Chapel. Constructed in 1911, this small chapel is adorned with intricate wood carvings and vaulted ceilings. Also, admire the beautiful stained glass windows.
4. Get Spooked in the Real Mary King’s Close
Hidden underneath the bustling Royal Mile lies a fascinating slice of Edinburgh’s history —The Real Mary King’s Close. This underground network of preserved 17th-century streets offers a glimpse into the mysterious and often eerie past of this city.
This site was once a lively thoroughfare in the Old Town, named after a merchant burgess who lived here. Today, you can take a guided tour to uncover the gripping tales of this place and the people who once called this place their home. Also, you will learn about the hardship they endured during the Black Death and the 1645 plague outbreak.
5. Admire the Picturesque Victoria Street
Only a minute’s walk away from the historic Royal Mile, Victoria Street is one of the most beloved and instantly recognisable spots in Edinburgh.
Winding its way down from George IV Bridge to the Grassmarket, Victoria Street is famous for its colourful and photogenic shopfronts and its connection to the wizard world. It is undeniably one of the most beautiful streets in Scotland.
If you are interested in discovering the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh, Victoria Street should be on your list. Harry Potter fans often flock here, as this cobbled street is widely believed to have inspired the creation of Diagon Alley. It is easy to see the resemblance.
6. Uncover the City’s Past at the Museum of Edinburgh
Like various other museums in Edinburgh, there is no entry fee to visit this museum on the Royal Mile. If you want a deeper understanding of Edinburgh’s past, this is the place to go.
Housed in a distinctive mustard-yellow building, the Museum of Edinburgh holds an impressively broad collection of artefacts and exhibits that reflect the cultural, social, and political evolution of Edinburgh.
Highlights include an original signed copy of the National Covenant, Greyfriars Bobby’s Collar and Bowl, Burgess and Guild Silverware. The museum also offers fascinating insights into the daily life of old Edinburgh.
7. Explore the Closes on the Royal Mile
While roaming around the Royal Mile, you will quickly notice narrow alleyways branching off the main street. These are known as closes.
Each of these closes has its own name and colourful story. Follow them, and you will discover hidden gardens, historic pubs and even a quiet courtyard.
We have already mentioned the Mary King’s Close before. Look out for Advocate’s Close, one of the most photographed closes on the Royal Mile. The narrow stone stairway opens up to a perfectly framed view of Scott Monument and Princes Street, making it a favourite among photographers.
The fans of the Outlander TV series can’t miss a brief visit to the Bakehouse Close near the bottom of the Royal Mile. This narrow lane was featured as Jamie’s print shop.
8. Have Fun at Camera Obscura
Perched just a few steps away from Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is one of the best kid-friendly attractions on the Royal Mile. Plus, it is mostly indoors, which makes a perfect choice for Scotland’s unpredictable weather.
It is a great place to enjoy a delightful mix of history, science, and playful trickery. You can explore the five floors of interactive exhibits in the World of Illusions. Visitors of all ages will have fun exploring the Vortex Tunnel, where you can walk through a spinning cylinder, a Mirror Maze, a dizzying labyrinth of reflections, and various Holograms and Light Shows.
Lastly, climb the rooftop terrace for an unforgettable panoramic view over the impressive Edinburgh skyline.
9. Visit the Scottish Parliament
Located at the foot of the Royal Mile, just across the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament building is a sharp contrast to the historic houses of the Royal Mile. Whether you find it beautiful or baffling, it perfectly reflects the evolving identity of Scotland.
Do you know you can visit the Scottish Parliament? Free guided tours run regularly to make you learn about the architecture of this building and the function of the Parliament. We would suggest booking your tickets online in advance.
If you visit during a parliamentary session, you can sit in the public gallery and watch real-time debates and discussions.
10. Try a Tipple at Scotch Whisky Experience
The Scotch Whisky Experience offers a deep dive into one of Scotland’s most iconic exports. It sits near the entrance of Edinburgh Castle.
If you are a whisky enthusiast, this Royal Mile attraction is the perfect place to broaden your knowledge and appreciation for the rich heritage of Scotland’s national drink.
They offer a wide range of guided tours and tasting options. Here, you will learn about the whisky-producing regions of Scotland and their distinct flavour profiles.
Also, another highlight here is the awe-inspiring Diageo Claive Vidiz Collection – a glittering gallery of over 3,000 bottles of Scotch whisky, beautifully displayed behind glass.
11. Explore the Museum of Childhood
If you are travelling with young kids, a quick visit to the Museum of Childhood will undoubtedly be a memorable experience. Opened in 1955, it is the first museum in the world dedicated entirely to the history of childhood.
Here, you will find an eclectic collection of items that reflect the changing face of childhood over the centuries in Britain. From Victorian dollhouses to tin soldiers and Meccano sets to early computer games, the exhibits showcase a vast collection of vintage toys and games.
Peek into recreated classrooms and nurseries that reveal how children were raised, taught, and disciplined in the past.
12. Discover the People’s Story Museum
Although there are quite a few museums on the Royal Mile, this one is unique. While other museums tell the stories of kings, queens, and castles, this one focuses on the everyday people who helped shape the Edinburgh we love today.
The People’s Story Museum is housed in the historic Canongate Tolbooth, a striking 16th-century building with a clock turret and stone staircases.
Using first-person accounts, oral histories, and personal artefacts, the museum brings to life the stories of factory workers, political reformers, trade unionists, and everyday families. Plus, you will see the recreated rooms. Entry to this museum is free.
13. Visit the Writers’ Museum
Tucked away from the busy Royal Mile in a quiet courtyard, the Writers’ Museum is a hidden gem in Edinburgh. It celebrates the lives and legacies of three of the greatest literary icons of Scotland – Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Whenever I visit this museum, I am always in awe of its stunning architecture. Before you step inside, I would recommend you take a moment to admire it. The 17th-century townhouse feels like it is cut out of a storybook.
The museum is small but informative. Inside, you will find original manuscripts, rare books, personal belongings, portraits, and letters from the authors.
14. Uncover John Knox House
Nestled at the bottom of Royal Mile lies one of the city’s oldest and most intriguing historic buildings. John Knox House is steep in history. Though the famous Protestant reformer John Knox only lived here briefly before he died in 1572, the building has become synonymous with his name.
The building itself is a rare survivor of medieval Edinburgh. With its timber framing, turrets, and intricate stonework, it stands out among the surrounding Georgian architecture.
You can browse around the rooms, which are beautifully decorated with period furniture and various artefacts. The interactive exhibits depict the turbulent times of the Scottish Reformation.
Best Time to Plan a Trip to the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile has something to offer year-round, but each season brings a different experience. As we have already mentioned, summer is the busiest time in Edinburgh. Especially during August, the Royal Mile becomes the buzzing epicentre of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
If you want to avoid crowds, then spring and autumn are perfect for you. The weather is mild, and it is generally less crowded than in peak summer.
We love a leisurely winter stroll on the Royal Mile. Although the Edinburgh Christmas Market and Hogmanay celebrations are busy times in Edinburgh, this street is not yet overwhelmed with tourists.
Best Places to Eat on the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile may be best known for its history, architecture, and street performers, but it is also home to plenty of cosy cafes and chic restaurants. A few of our favourite restaurants are actually located here.
If you are craving a hearty Scottish breakfast, we would recommend Edinburgh Larder. For some light bites and tasty pastries, pop inside Clarinda’s Tearoom.
To indulge in one of the most luxurious afternoon tea experiences in Edinburgh, step inside the grand and serene Signet Library, just a few steps off the Royal Mile.
Hidden down the steep close, The Devil’s Advocate is a stylish whisky bar and restaurant that blends rustic charm with modern dining. Also, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is a great place to sample some delicious Scottish food.
Best Pubs on the Royal Mile
Named after the real-life inspiration for Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is a classic Edinburgh pub serving traditional Scottish fare and a superb selection of real ales and local whiskies.
Another pub on the Royal Mile to add to your pub crawl list is the World’s End. It is located next to the walls of Old Edinburgh at the end. Hence the name.
Tucked into the old Canongate Tolbooth, Tolbooth Tavern is one of the most atmospheric drinking spots in Edinburgh. Dark wood and stone walls will make you feel like stepping back in time.
Whether it is your first time in Edinburgh or your tenth, the Royal Mile always has something new to offer. So take your time, wander with curiosity, and discover why the Royal Mile is one of the most unforgettable places in this city.
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