Wee Ecosse - French-Language Guided Tours in Edinburgh
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
Wee Ecosse offers immersive French-language guided walking tours in Edinburgh, revealing the city's rich history, culture, and folklore. Based at Chessel's Court in the Old Town, these tours are led by passionate guides who blend historical facts with captivating stories, making the experience engaging for Francophone visitors. Operating daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, Wee Ecosse provides a unique and personal way to explore Edinburgh’s iconic sites and hidden gems.
A brief summary to Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
- Chessel's Court, Edinburgh, EH8 8AD, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance to secure your preferred time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tours cover historic streets with cobblestones and some uneven surfaces.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as tours are primarily outdoors.
- Engage with your guide and ask questions to enrich your understanding of Edinburgh’s culture and history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city center to Canongate. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. A single adult ticket costs around £1.80.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Tram to York Place, then walk approximately 15 minutes downhill to Chessel's Court. Tram rides last about 20 minutes from the airport. Tram tickets cost about £6.50 from the airport to city center.
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Taxi
A taxi from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Chessel's Court takes around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. The fare is approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available but can be limited during peak hours.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a walk to Chessel's Court takes about 20-25 minutes. The route covers uneven cobblestone streets and some uphill sections, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
A Unique French-Language Experience in Edinburgh
Wee Ecosse specializes in guided walking tours conducted entirely in French, catering to Francophone visitors eager to explore Edinburgh’s rich cultural tapestry. Situated at Chessel's Court in the historic Old Town, the tours offer an intimate and engaging way to discover the city’s landmarks, legends, and local life. The guides are known for their deep knowledge and enthusiasm, weaving history and folklore into compelling narratives that bring Edinburgh’s past vividly to life.Exploring Edinburgh’s Historic Heart
Tours typically traverse key parts of Edinburgh’s Old Town, including the Royal Mile and its surrounding streets. Participants experience a blend of iconic sights and lesser-known stories, gaining insight into the city’s medieval origins, architectural heritage, and vibrant cultural traditions. The walking tours emphasize not just the famous monuments but also the atmosphere and character of Edinburgh’s historic neighborhoods.Passionate Guides and Personalized Storytelling
The guides at Wee Ecosse are praised for their personable approach and ability to adapt the tour to visitors’ interests. Their storytelling combines historical accuracy with engaging anecdotes, often enlivened by humor and local color. This personal touch creates a friendly atmosphere akin to exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Convenient Location and Accessibility
Located at Chessel's Court, near the Canongate and just off the Royal Mile, Wee Ecosse is easily accessible from central Edinburgh. The venue lies within walking distance of major transport hubs and offers a perfect starting point for exploring the Old Town. The tours run daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, providing flexibility for visitors to choose times that suit their schedules.Immersive Cultural Insight and Engagement
Beyond sightseeing, Wee Ecosse tours immerse visitors in Scottish culture through language and storytelling. The French-language format offers a unique perspective for French speakers, making Scottish history and heritage accessible and relatable. This cultural immersion enriches the visitor’s understanding and appreciation of Edinburgh’s identity.Commitment to Quality and Visitor Satisfaction
Wee Ecosse has earned a strong reputation for quality and professionalism, with consistently high ratings from visitors. The company’s dedication to small group sizes ensures a personalized experience, while the guides’ expertise and enthusiasm contribute to memorable tours. This commitment to excellence makes Wee Ecosse a standout choice for French-speaking travelers seeking an authentic Edinburgh adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.2 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.2 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Robert Fergusson Statue
0.3 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
124 High St
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Museum Context
0.4 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
North Bridge
0.4 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.4 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
The High Street Wellhead
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.4 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Old Calton Cemetery
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and serene beauty of Old Calton Cemetery, a must-visit landmark in Edinburgh's rich heritage.
Cockburn St
0.5 km
Explore Cockburn Street, a vibrant and historic thoroughfare in Edinburgh, where culture meets charm in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Barrie's Close
0.5 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Burns Monument
0.5 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Unmissable attractions to see
The World's End
0.1 km
A snug, centuries‑stitched Royal Mile pub where Flodden Wall stone, local ales and hearty Scottish plates meet old‑town atmosphere.
The Chocolatarium
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
St. Patrick
0.1 km
Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s rich storytelling heritage in Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural hub blending medieval charm with contemporary arts.
Little Fish Tours
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
John Knox House
0.2 km
The world's first purpose-built storytelling centre, blending 15th-century history with contemporary performance on Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Museum of Childhood
0.2 km
The world’s first museum dedicated to childhood, packed with toys, games, and memories from the 1800s to today on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s intimate museum exploring the rich history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and fortune-telling in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
The People's Story Museum
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s working-class heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories in a historic 16th-century landmark on the Royal Mile.
Museum of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history in a charming 16th-century building on the Royal Mile, featuring iconic artifacts and engaging exhibitions.
Edinburgh World Heritage
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a city alive with history and culture.
Canongate Kirk
0.3 km
Historic Canongate Kirk, a royal parish church with unique Dutch gable and serene blue interior, nestled on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.1 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Monteiths
0.2 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
La Garrigue
0.2 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Tolbooth Tavern
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Piper's Rest
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.4 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Ecco Vino
0.5 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.5 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Number One
0.6 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.6 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
The Devil's Advocate
0.6 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Duck & Waffle
0.6 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
Twenty Princes Street
0.6 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ragamuffin
0.1 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Real Scot Shop
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.2 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
The Wyrd Shop
0.2 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
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.
The Scotland Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
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.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.4 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Fringe Shop
0.4 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pure Scottish
0.5 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
0.2 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
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 Banshee Labyrinth
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Copper Still
0.4 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!
0.4 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Captain's Bar
0.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Three Sisters
0.5 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Cask
0.6 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.6 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Frankenstein
0.6 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.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.6 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
The Oz Bar
0.7 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
56 North
0.7 km
Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.3 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.3 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.6 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.9 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.9 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.
Garibaldi's
1.0 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.
Opal Lounge
1.1 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.2 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
1.4 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
