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The Royal Mile, Edinburgh

4.5

#4 of 6,104 in Things to do in Scotland

Landmark Tourist Spot Must See

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The Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare in Edinburgh's Old Town. Actually a bit longer than 1 mi (1.6 km), this succession of multiple streets spills downhill from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Stroll past stately Victorian buildings that now house restaurants, pubs, and shops, and stop to enjoy a street performance or two. The streets are steep in some places, so you can take a bus tour uphill to the castle and walk back down if you prefer. The Edinburgh Festival, a collection of smaller outdoor arts festivals, takes place throughout August with this area as its nexus. This might be the most exciting, if crowded, time to be on the thoroughfare. Plan to visit The Royal Mile during your Edinburgh vacation using our convenient Edinburgh trip planner.

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The Royal Mile Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

25,171 reviews

Google

4.6

facebook

4.9

873 likes

• By Boyd F

  Although the upper part (Castle Terrace and Lawnmarket) are very touristy, the wind and cold kept all but the heartiest away and we had a very pleasant walk and dinner in a pub. Worth the time we...  more »

• By golfman12

  The Rotal Mile is the epitome of Scottish history.All different types of stories of Edinburgh's citizens over centuries .Amazing buildings to visit.Great restaurants and pubs.  more »

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Google

• By paul brown

  Such a delight walking up and down here. Some great pubs including, the Royal Mile Tavern and the pub next to it. Both do very good food. At top of the mile is a Nicholson pub, the Deacon and the Brodie where RLStevenson gained inspiration for his horror classic. Further up is the castle.

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• By Paul Sullivan

  Great walk and loads of history. Architecture is amazing. Downside is too many tourist shops selling the same thing.

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