21 The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile ...

The Royal Mile runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched high on a base of volcanic rock, with the splendorous Palace of Holyroodhouse, resting in the shadow of Arthur's Seat.

The Mile is overlooked by impressive, towering tenements, between which cobbled closes and narrow stairways interlock to create a secret underground world.

Scattered with superb attractions such as The Real Mary King’s Close or the Scottish Storytelling Centre, historic sites including St Giles' Cathedral and some of the best eating and drinking spots in the city, the Royal Mile offers much to see and do.

For a glimpse of recent history, be sure to visit the ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, a striking building boasting a cutting-edge design.

EDINBURGH CASTLE

Castlehill 0131 225 9846 www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk Edinburgh’s most visited attraction, the castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline and its story has shaped the nation’s history. Home to the one o’clock gun and many historic artefacts, the castle attracts thousands of visitors every year. Top tip is to book your tickets online and get Fast Tracked at no extra cost.

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING

Canongate. Royal Mile 0131 348 5000 www.scottish.parliament.uk Tours of the parliament building are free of charge and usually include a visit to the Debating Chamber, The Garden Lobby and Committee Room. They include detailed information about the work, history and procedures of the Scottish Parliament. Tours operate at scheduled times on Monday to Saturday subject to Parliament business. Check online for information or to book a tour.

PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE

Canongate. Royal Mile 0131 556 5100 www.royalcollection.org.uk The Palace of Holyroodhouse or as it is more commonly know, Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of The Queen in Scotland. Flying of the Royal Standard indicates whether The Queen is at home, but the Palace itself remains open throughout the year and is an interesting and enlightening visit.

ST. GILES CATHEDRAL

High Street 0131 225 9442 www.stgilescathedral.org.uk Admission to this landmark, stunning cathedral is free and volunteer guides are on duty to welcome and assist visitors with guided tours on request. The Cathedral shop stocks a variety of souvenirs, gifts and books, some relating to the cathedral itself. The Cathedral is a tranquil stop during a hectic day of sightseeing.

OUR DYNAMIC EARTH

Holyrood Road, EH8 8AS 0131 550 7800 www.dynamicearth.co.uk A visit to Dynamic Earth is like nothing else on Earth. It's a chance to experience the primeval forces of nature as they shaped our planet, to journey through space and time and even go on an Adventure around the world. Voted one of Edinburgh's best attractions on many occasions, it's a must visit for all the family of ages of a fantastic location to stage your next big event!

CAMERA OBSCURA & WORLD OF ILLUSIONS

Castle Hill, Royal Mile 0131 226 3709 www.camera-obscura.co.uk Located right next to Edinburgh Castle. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is the only spot in Edinburgh where you can explore the whole city without even leaving the room! Five floors of fascinating, interactive, hands-on exhibits. Where 21st -century tech meets classic illusions and historic science. It’s a great day out.

THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE

354 Castlehill, The Royal mile. EH1 2NE 0131 220 0441 www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk The Scotch Whisky Experience is a five star visitor attraction at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where they have been inspiring visitors to Edinburgh about the joys of Scotch whisky for over 30 years. With over 3500 bottles of whisky from down the years on display, the stunning Amber Restaurant & Whisky bar to enjoy, whether you take a tour, visit the shop or enjoy an event or tasting, you are guaranteed a sensational experience.