Edinburgh Hidden Gems Self-Guided Private Tour

Edinburgh, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    You will get an email with instructions to activate your tour (booking reference isn't the code!)
  • inclusion
    Audio guide, videos, pictures, recommendations and all the info you need
  • inclusion
    Map, directions, GPS route and stops of each tour
  • inclusion
    Moira will guide you through an audio guide (no computer-generated voice!)
  • inclusion
    3 weeks unlimited access to this Self-Guided Tour on the app

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Live guide (in-person)

Meeting Point

All our tours are self-guided. You will be led by the GPS in the app. Remember to check the "Before You Go" Section of your ticket and give Pandemic Tours App access to your location!

Meeting point

197 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BN , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

The tour finishes at Dr Neil's Garden, Duddingston Village. To return to the High Street there are three options. The first is to walk either back the way you came or over Arthur’s Seat, you can take a taxi, or a bus.

Meeting point

5 Old Church Ln, Duddingston, Edinburgh EH15 3PX , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1
Fudge House

You will learn why Scots have a sweet tooth! Here is the story of the Tablet and Fudge.

Duration 5 minutes
2
Dunbars Close Garden

The old city of Edinburgh is like a maze with small alleys off the main roads and they each take you somewhere that feels magical. One of these hidden gems is the gardens at Dunbar Close. It’s right here in the centre of the city and unknown to most residents.

Duration 10 minutes
3
Robert Fergusson Statue

Standing on the main pavement, outside Canongate Kirk, we find the statue of Robert Ferguson. We cannot walk past this statue and not wonder who he is, and why he is so prominent on the Canongate. You will learn everything about this important character as we move on on this tour.

4
Holyrood Park

You will learn about both the Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament while we walk along this tour.

5
Salisbury Crags

Learn all about this large park in the middle of the city; its history, what people used to do here centuries ago and how it has changed over time.

6

Arthur's Seat

Arthur’s Seat - the hill is an extinct volcano where signs of human habitation have been found 5000 years BC. It seems people have always lived here, innit. We will have a glance at its fascinating history. The climb is optional!

7

Duddingston Loch

As you clipped the top of the hill and started to descend the vista of the loch opened up in front of you. Duddingston Loch is a freshwater loch, and the only natural one remaining in the city. Discover this amazing village and lake in this tour!

8

Sheep Heid Inn Edinburgh

It is believed that an Inn has stood on this site since 1360, although not in this building! If it is true then the Sheep Head Inn is one of the oldest surviving Inns in Scotland and probably worth visiting for that fact alone.

Duration 20 minutes
9

8 The Causeway

In this remote location, you will find Prince Charlie’s Cottage. There is a plaque outside this cottage marking it as the place where Prince Charles Edward Stuart held his war council before the Battle of Prestonpans. You will hear all about this amazing story.

10
Duddingston Kirk

One of the emblems of Duddingston Village. The Church remains a working Church and must be one of the oldest in Scotland. You will also hear all you need to know about this beautiful landmark.

Duration 15 minutes
11
Dr Neil's Garden

Visit one of Edinburgh's hidden gems and best-kept secret! Dr Neil's Garden or more commonly known as the Secret Gardens. You guessed right, you'll hear all about it with this tour.

Duration 15 minutes
12

Jock Tamson’s Gairden

The tour finishes at Jock Tamson’s Gairden: Another hidden gem of Edinburgh.

Duration 15 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Check the "Before You Go" Section of your booking!
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Pandemic Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local fudge at Fudge House!
  • icon
    Visit Dunbars Close Garden for peace.
  • icon
    End your tour at Jock Tamson's Garden.
  • icon
    Take a taxi if you prefer less walking.
  • icon
    Check app for guided route and tips.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to Pandemic Tour's Edinburgh Hidden Gems Self-Guided Private Tour! Leave behind the typical tourist traps and crowded attractions, and embark on a unique adventure through the hidden treasures of Edinburgh. With this self-guided experience, your phone becomes your private guide, leading you to the city's most fascinating and lesser-known locations.

What to Expect

During this tour, you can anticipate a captivating journey that delves into the rich history, art, nature, and architecture of Duddingston Village. With a duration of 120 to 180 minutes, you'll have ample time to explore the secrets of this magical slice of Edinburgh. From the fascinating stories of Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, Raeburn, and Walter Scott to the intriguing tales behind Holyrood Park and the oldest working Church in Scotland, this experience promises to be both educational and entertaining.

Who is this for?

This self-guided tour is designed for anyone with a curious spirit and a love for discovery. It welcomes both locals and tourists who are seeking an off-the-beaten-track adventure and a deeper understanding of Edinburgh's cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring hidden gems, this tour offers something for everyone.

Why Book This?

What sets this tour apart is the freedom it provides. No longer bound by schedules or guided groups, you have the flexibility to explore at your own pace and immerse yourself fully in the charm of Duddingston Village. With your phone as your guide, you'll have access to insider information and intriguing stories that only the locals know. This self-guided experience allows you to truly connect with the history and beauty of Edinburgh in a personal and intimate way. By booking this tour, you'll uncover hidden gems that most tourists miss, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Good to Know

Keep in mind that a certain level of fitness is required for this tour, as there may be some walking involved. However, if you prefer not to walk, you have the option to take a taxi. Before setting off on your adventure, you will receive an email with instructions for downloading the app and redeeming your unique code. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through Edinburgh's history, art, and nature.

Reviews

Previous participants of this tour have raved about the unique insights and hidden gems they discovered along the way. They praised the convenience and freedom that the self-guided experience provided, allowing them to explore at their own pace. Many were amazed by the wealth of knowledge and captivating stories shared through the app. Travelers expressed their satisfaction with the well-planned itinerary, which introduced them to lesser-known locations and showcased the beauty of Duddingston Village. Overall, participants found this tour to be a delightful and immersive experience, surpassing their expectations and leaving them with a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh's rich history.

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