Uncovered Edinburgh
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
Uncovered Edinburgh is an immersive historical experience located at Parliament Square in Edinburgh's Old Town, offering guided tours and self-directed explorations of Scotland's capital. Positioned at the heart of medieval Edinburgh, this attraction specializes in revealing the layered history, hidden stories, and architectural heritage of the city's most significant landmarks. Visitors discover the intricate connections between Parliament House, St Giles' Cathedral, and the surrounding closes, learning about centuries of Scottish political, legal, and cultural significance.
A brief summary to Uncovered Edinburgh
- 1 Parliament Sqr, Edinburgh, EH1 1RF, GB
- +447807771894
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday daytime hours (Wednesday–Friday, 10:00–17:00) when Parliament House is open and you can observe active courtrooms and legal proceedings in progress, adding authenticity to your historical experience.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Parliament Square landmarks including St Giles' Cathedral and the Mercat Cross to understand the interconnected history of Edinburgh's medieval and early modern governance.
- Arrive early to avoid peak afternoon crowds and secure better views of the marble statues, portraits, and architectural details within Parliament House's halls and corridors.
- Prepare for airport-style security screening upon entry; allow extra time and bring minimal bags to expedite the process and maximize your time exploring the building.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for navigating cobblestone streets and historic closes in the surrounding Old Town, which you'll naturally explore before or after your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport from Edinburgh City Centre
From Edinburgh Waverley Station or the city centre, take any bus service to the Royal Mile or Parliament Square area. Journey time is approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Services run frequently throughout the day. No specific ticket required beyond standard Edinburgh bus fares (approximately £1.80–£2.00 per journey). Parliament Square is directly accessible from the High Street section of the Royal Mile.
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Walking from Edinburgh Castle
From Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, walk downhill along the Royal Mile toward Holyrood Palace. Parliament Square is located approximately 400 metres along this route, taking 5–8 minutes on foot. The walk is on a historic, well-maintained cobblestone street with moderate gradient. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The route is accessible year-round and clearly signposted.
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Taxi or Ride-Share Service
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local firms) can deliver you directly to Parliament Square. Journey time from Edinburgh city centre is typically 8–15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Fares range from £6–£12 depending on starting location. Parking near Parliament Square is extremely limited; ride-share is recommended over personal vehicles.
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Walking from Holyrood Palace
From the Palace of Holyroodhouse, walk uphill along the Royal Mile toward Edinburgh Castle. Parliament Square is approximately 500 metres along this route, taking 7–10 minutes on foot. The walk ascends gradually on historic cobblestones. This approach allows you to experience the full length of the Royal Mile and its closes.
Uncovered Edinburgh location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Uncovered Edinburgh
A Gateway to Edinburgh's Layered Past
Uncovered Edinburgh sits at the intersection of Scotland's most historically significant landmarks, occupying a prime position at Parliament Square in the heart of the Old Town. This location serves as a gateway to understanding the complex, interconnected history of medieval and early modern Edinburgh. The experience draws visitors into the stories embedded within the cobblestones and facades surrounding the square, where centuries of political intrigue, legal proceedings, and cultural development have shaped the nation. Parliament Square itself represents a palimpsest of Scottish history. The square was not always the neat, dignified space visitors see today; it evolved through centuries of urban transformation. The original asymmetrical medieval layout was substantially altered during the 19th century when Victorian urban planners sought to modernise the crowded Old Town, creating new streets like Cockburn Street and Bank Street to improve access and carve out better approaches to the railway station and financial district.The Heart of Scottish Governance and Justice
At the core of Parliament Square stands Parliament House, constructed in 1641 as the home of the Scottish Parliament. This building represents a pivotal moment in Scottish institutional history, housing the sovereign parliament before the Act of Union in 1707. The architecture itself tells stories of power and prestige, with its distinctive features including a magnificent self-supporting roof—a marvel of 17th-century engineering that has captured imaginations for generations. Inside, visitors encounter marble statues, including that of Duncan Forbes, a prominent politician and judge, alongside portraits of 18th- and 19th-century legal figures. Today, Parliament House functions as a working court building, primarily hearing civil cases while criminal trials take place in the High Court. This dual identity—historical monument and active legal institution—creates a unique atmosphere where visitors encounter both the weight of history and the ongoing business of Scottish justice. The courtrooms remain accessible to the public, allowing visitors to witness the continuation of legal traditions stretching back centuries.Shadows of the Old Tolbooth and Medieval Justice
Beneath the elegant Neoclassical facade of modern Parliament Square lies a darker history. The infamous Old Tolbooth once stood on this site, serving multiple functions throughout its existence: meeting place for the Town Council, law court, tax office, and most notoriously, a prison. The Tolbooth was the setting for torture, public executions, and political intrigue until its demolition in 1817. Today, a heart-shaped mosaic marks the spot where the Tolbooth once stood—a symbol that locals traditionally spit upon for luck, perhaps a final defiant gesture against the injustice that occurred within its walls. Nearby, the reconstructed Mercat Cross stands as a reminder of the public executions that took place in this square, where those sentenced to death met their end.Architectural Transformation and Victorian Vision
The 19th-century refacing of Parliament House and St Giles' Cathedral created the unified Neoclassical and Gothic appearance visible today. While some contemporary critics lamented the loss of the original medieval character, this transformation gave the square its current dignified aesthetic. The creation of Cockburn Street exemplifies Victorian urban planning at its finest—a beautifully curved, picturesque thoroughfare that provides a grand theatrical entry into the historic Royal Mile. This blend of ancient institutional buildings alongside Victorian architectural innovation creates a unique spatial experience where different historical periods coexist visually and spatially.A Living Monument to Scottish Identity
Uncovered Edinburgh operates within this rich context, helping visitors decode the layers of meaning embedded in Parliament Square and its surroundings. The location serves as a nexus point connecting multiple threads of Scottish history: the medieval church of St Giles', the seat of sovereign parliament, the site of medieval justice and imprisonment, the architecture of the Scottish Enlightenment, and the financial power represented by Bank Street and the Bank of Scotland. For visitors seeking to understand Edinburgh beyond surface-level tourism, this location offers profound insights into how a single square can encapsulate centuries of national development, institutional evolution, and cultural identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1 Parliament Sqr
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Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Mercat Cross
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Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Barrie's Close
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Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Adam Smith Statue
0.0 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The High Street Wellhead
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.1 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
124 High St
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Museum Context
0.1 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
David Hume Statue
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
South Bridge
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh at South Bridge, a lively hub that connects the city's past with its modern vibrancy.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Gladstone's Land
0.2 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Lost Close
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
ScoziaTour.com
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Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Underground
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Descend into Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults for a thrilling blend of dark history, ghostly tales, and immersive storytelling beneath the Old Town.
Edinburgh Old Town
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh Old Town, where medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture unite in Scotland’s historic capital.
JK Rowling’s Handprints
0.1 km
Discover the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling at Edinburgh City Chambers, a tribute to the author’s lasting impact on the city and literary world.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.1 km
Step beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a preserved 17th-century close and uncover the city’s hidden stories of plague, poverty, and daily life.
Supreme Courts
0.1 km
Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh City Chambers: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Scotland's Capital, Showcasing Governance and Heritage.
Advocates Close
0.1 km
Discover the steep, historic alleyway of Advocates Close, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.1 km
Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.1 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Department Of Magic
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh’s enchanting basement escape rooms and potions tavern for a magical adventure filled with puzzles, cocktails, and wizardry charm.
Monkey Barrel Comedy
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate comedy hotspot offering award-winning shows, diverse line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere with table service and a great bar.
Essential places to dine
Angels with Bagpipes
0.1 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Piper's Rest
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Ecco Vino
0.1 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Devil's Advocate
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.1 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Ondine Restaurant
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.2 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Howies Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Whiski Rooms
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Monteiths
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fringe Shop
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Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Eden
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.1 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
The Scotland Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
I Love Scotland
0.2 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Heritage of Scotland
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Scottish Experience
0.2 km
Discover authentic tartans, Celtic jewelry, and Harry Potter treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket—a shopper's delight capturing Scotland's vibrant heritage in every handcrafted find.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.2 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Olde Edinburgh
0.2 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Galaxy
0.3 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
House of Scotland
0.3 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.3 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Copper Still
0.1 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.1 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Whistlebinkies
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.2 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Jolly Judge
0.3 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bow Bar
0.3 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Captain's Bar
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The World's End
0.4 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.4 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
La Belle Angele
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.2 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
Legends
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Mash House
0.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.2 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Bongo Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.6 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.7 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.7 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.0 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Neoclassical Designs
- Historic Preservation
- Victorian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
