Private tour in Edinburgh Clare M

Half Day Highlights Walking Tour

5.0

(1) review

-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Clare M.

5.0

Guide rating

7

Reviews

Tours delivered

17 hrs

Avg. response time

Born and raised in Scotland, my first taste of tour guiding was in fact during a summer spent as a bike and segway guide on the busy streets of Paris. That was over ten years ago now, and the guiding "bug" never really left me. I've since been an events executive for the tourist board, and an events planner, designing tours and events around Scotland. But I am happiest when I get to showcase my beautiful country first hand, while meeting interesting people from around the world. I've been guiding in Edinburgh since 2019, and a few years ago qualified as a Blue Badge Guide. I am now a member of the Scottish Tourist Guides Association, and qualified to guide throughout Scotland. Last summer I was able to take groups as far as the Isle of Skye, Inverness and the Isle of Iona. But I mostly enjoy offering tours of Edinburgh, having lived there for ten years, (and nearby for many more years). It's a city that never ceases to amaze me. Every area of the city has something different to offer, from the grandeur and impressive architecture of the New Town, to the history and hidden alleyways of the Old Town. There are breath-taking views at every corner, and incredible histories and myths to discover. It's a city that has inspired great philosophers, writers, and scientists. . . I hope it inspires you too. I love telling stories and visiting the main sights of Edinburgh, but I think it's important to showcase some hidden gems, and the local favourites too! I'm an Outlander and Harry Potter fan and enjoy linking this into some tours, if guests are interested. Similarly, I studied Scottish Literature as part of my degree, so am happy to tailor tours with a focus on that. On all my tours I like to strike a balance between past and present, history and humour, pointing out great architecture but great coffee shops too. But most of all I'll find a pace and balance that works for you! Qualified Blue Badge Guide and Member of the Scottish Tourist Guides Association (STGA) MA French and English Language - University of Glasgow Emergency First Aid at Work - last completed 2025 If you wish to have a tour of St Giles Cathedral, please note all groups of over 5 people need to book in advance. If you wish to have a tour of Edinburgh Castle, I am only permitted to guide in designated areas (not in the roofed areas).

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Clare M.

Overview of your Edinburgh tour

Edinburgh is a city of contrasts, with its Old and New Towns side by side. It is the two together that make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the time on this half day walking tour to explore them both. Beginning in the New Town, we'll wander through Princes Street Gardens, marvelling at monuments and grand Georgian architecture. After a short climb up Calton Hill, we'll head into the Old Town. On the famous Royal Mile, we'll duck down alleyways to reveal beautiful views and courtyards, and see how the residents of Edinburgh lived throughout the centuries. Find out why Edinburgh has so many underground streets, and the tales of ghosts and witchcraft this inspired. This is a well-paced tour that will introduce you to many of the main sights of Edinburgh, with history and humour. With tips on the best places to eat and shop, it should set you up perfectly for the rest of your stay in this fascinating city.

Your Edinburgh tour itinerary

The tour covers key sites across Edinburgh's Old and New Towns: - Princes Street Gardens - Scott Monument (exterior) - St Andrews Square - Calton Hill and National Monument of Scotland - The Royal Mile (high street and lawn market sections) - St Giles Cathedral (exterior) - Mercat Cross - City Chambers (exterior) - The Writer's Museum (exterior) - Greyfriar's Bobby - Greyfriar's Kirkyard - National Museum of Scotland (exterior) - The Grassmarket - Victoria Street The itinerary is flexible, for any changes please let me know.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

This is a walking tour

What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Public transportation, entrance fees, and any purchases of a personal nature are not included. If you would like to extend your tour and/or if you would like to include entry to visitor attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, or food and drink stops, please message me to enquire about a customized tour.
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

National Galleries of Scotland: National, The Mound, Edinburgh, UK

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: Between the Royal Scottish Academy and the National Galleries of Scotland (see gallery for photo of Meeting Point)

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Architecture
Art And Culture
Tour reference number
1314197
Languages
English
French
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Edinburgh best suited for?

This private tour in Edinburgh is perfect for travellers who want to explore the city's main sights with a knowledgeable local guide. It's especially suitable for those interested in history, architecture, and culture, as well as families with kids, given its kid-friendly nature. The tour offers a moderate activity level, making it accessible for most people who enjoy walking.

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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