Free Royal Mile Tours

Free Royal Mile Tours

Edinburgh Festival Voluntary Guides AssociationAmateur Company

90 minutesCourtyard
Join us for our genuinely free, small group walking tours of Edinburgh's historic Old Town and enjoy stories of the many colourful characters who lived here. Since the first Edinburgh Festival in 1947, our trained local guides – all volunteers who love their city – have shared their knowledge with visitors from all over the world. Tours leave from the City Chambers Courtyard on the High Street at 10.30am and 2pm, lasting about 90 minutes. Step with us into Edinburgh's rich history. Tripadvisor awarded us the Travellers' Choice award in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

About Edinburgh Festival Voluntary Guides Association

The Edinburgh Festival Voluntary Guides Association runs genuinely free, small group walking tours of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, led by trained local volunteers who love their city. Departing from the City Chambers Courtyard on the High Street, these tours bring to life the many colourful characters who shaped this remarkable place. With decades of history behind the association, guides share stories drawn from deep local knowledge with visitors from all over the world.

Why see this show?

A warm, knowledgeable and entirely free way to discover Edinburgh's Old Town through the eyes of passionate local volunteers. Whether you are visiting for the first time or think you know the city well, these intimate guided walks reveal stories you won't find in any guidebook.

Event Details

Saturday 8 - Sunday 30 August 2026

10:30, 14:00

46 performances

90 minutes

40 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

Free

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a ticket price?

These tours are completely free to join — no booking required.

How long is each tour?

Each tour lasts approximately ninety minutes.

Where do the tours depart from?

Tours leave from the City Chambers Courtyard on the High Street.

Is it suitable for all ages?

Tours are recommended for ages twelve and over.

Who leads the tours?

The tours are led by trained local volunteer guides who are members of the Edinburgh Festival Voluntary Guides Association.

About This Performance

Free Royal Mile Tours is a events performance at Courtyard during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 90 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Courtyard

Courtyard is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • Check venue accessibility if needed
  • Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
  • Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £null

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Audience will be standing throughout, Audience required to walk or move around during the performance

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Free Royal Mile Tours represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API