Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile Shore Excursion from South Queensferry

This full day tour is perfect for those who wish to visit Edinburgh. You enjoy a driving tour of the city plus a visit to the famous Edinburgh Castle. Some free time to enjoy lunch in a local pub and explore the Royal Mile is also included.

After meeting your private guide at the pier you enjoy a scenic driving tour of Edinburgh including the Georgian New Town. You delight in a photo stop on Calton Hill where you admire the splendid views of the city and its historic Old Town.

Upon arrival in the Old Town you visit Edinburgh Castle, the most famous of Scottish castles and the stronghold that guarded the city through centuries of conflict. You will learn about its complex building history. The oldest part, St Margaret's Chapel, dates from the 12th century, the Great Hall was erected by James IV around 1510, the Half Moon Battery by the Regent Morton in the late 16th century, and the Scottish National War Memorial after the First World War. The castle houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the famous 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O'Clock Gun, and the National War Museum of Scotland. It was here in the 11th century that Queen Margaret directed the defense of her adopted homeland two decades after the same Norman forces had slaughtered her brother and the nobles of Saxon England at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Margaret, known for her saintly deeds and devotion to Christ, died during the siege, and her body was lowered down the walls to prevent its capture and desecration by the Normans.

Following the castle visit is free time for lunch in a local pub, and then you can explore the Royal Mile or visit St. Giles' Cathedral, the historic City Church of Edinburgh. With its famed crown spire, it stands on the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, it is the Mother Church of Presbyterianism and contains the Chapel of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's chivalric company of knights headed by the monarch.

Later this afternoon you return to the pier.

If you cannot find what you are looking for, our South Queensferry shore excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private South Queensferry shore trip using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.

• Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances, this itinerary is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs. Please contact us for alternative sightseeing options, including private driving tours that may better accommodate your needs.