Royal Mile
Address: Edinburgh, EH1 1SG
The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s most popular streets, connecting two of the city’s iconic Royal landmarks – Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. As the name suggests, it is one mile long. Although, this is one Scots mile, which is just over a mile using today’s measurements. This famous cobbled street is made up of five sections; Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate and Abbey Strand. Each has its own landmarks and attractions, so it can take many days to fully explore.
The area is steeped in history, with its oldest surviving buildings dating back to the 1400s. During August, the High Street is transformed into the central hub for the Festival Fringe, where acts come to promote their shows and perform in the street. The festival is the busiest time of the year in Edinburgh and is a must-see for tourists and locals alike.
5 things to do on the Royal Mile
- Shop in the Royal Mile’s many tourist stores selling tartan, whisky, shortbread and all things Scottish, perfect for all your souvenirs.
- Visit a traditional Scottish pub. There are a great many on the Royal Mile, hundreds of years old, where you’ll pick up a pint or a dram and something to eat – perhaps the popular local dish haggis, neeps and tatties.
- Visit landmarks and attractions along the Royal Mile. Highlights include Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse at either end of the mile, historic churches St. Giles Cathedral, Canongate Church and Tolbooth Kirk (The Hub) and attractions John Knox House, Scotch Whisky Experience, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and The Real Mary King’s Close.
- Take a walking tour of the city. Many of which start on the Royal Mile. From scary haunted tours to fascinating history walks.
- Throughout most of August, experience the bustling Royal Mile during the Festival Fringe. You can purchase tickets for the many hundreds of shows available at the Festival Fringe Box Office, located on the High Street.
