Castle · UNESCO
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A fortress on an extinct volcano above the city, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
Neighbourhood · United Kingdom · Scotland
The Royal Mile
The historic street running from the castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with closes, shops and pubs.
UNESCO World Heritage Free to enter about 1.5 h
For storytellers
Why The Royal Mile matters
This is the spine of the Old Town, sloping from the castle at the top to the palace at the bottom. Duck into narrow closes to find hidden courtyards, pubs and tiny museums. It is touristy but atmospheric, especially in the early morning.
Talking points
- Narrow alleyways called closes run off both sides.
- Street performers fill the road in August.
- It joins the castle with Holyrood Palace.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.
Good to know: Walk it early in the day to avoid the thickest crowds.
More in Edinburgh
Mountain
Arthur's Seat
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
An ancient volcano in Holyrood Park with a short climb and a full city panorama.
Viewpoint
Calton Hill
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A small hill with unfinished monuments and one of the best views of Edinburgh.
Festival or event
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A huge August arts festival that turns the city into a stage.
Neighbourhood
Grassmarket and Victoria Street
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A lively old square and a curved, colourful street of independent shops below the castle.
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A large free museum covering Scottish history, science, natural history and world cultures.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.