Enlightenment in Edinburgh: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

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

Included

  • inclusion
    The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • inclusion
    Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • inclusion
    Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • inclusion
    Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • inclusion
    Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Entrance fees
  • exclusion
    Smartphones and headphones (please bring your own)

Meeting Point

The tour begins on the cobbles outside the main door of St Giles Cathedral on the Royal Mile

Meeting point

High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

The tour ends at Charlotte Square.

Meeting point

Edinburgh , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1
St Giles' Cathedral

Begin your tour at St Giles' Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a pivotal site in Edinburgh's religious history. It's the perfect starting point to delve into the city's past.

2
Royal Mile

Walk along the Royal Mile, the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This iconic street is lined with landmarks, shops, and cafes, offering a vibrant glimpse into the city's medieval life.

3

Adam Smith Statue

Visit the statue of Adam Smith, the father of modern economics. Learn about his revolutionary ideas that shaped economic theory and his influence on the Enlightenment.

4
Surgeons' Hall Museums

Discover the fascinating Surgeons' Hall Museums, which showcase the history of medical advancements in Edinburgh. Built on the proceeds of criminal activity, these museums reveal a darker side of the city's past.

5

Old College, The University of Edinburgh

Step into the Old Quad at the University of Edinburgh. This historic site played a significant role in promoting specialized expertise in various academic fields during the Enlightenment.

6
Princes Street Gardens

Stroll through Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful public park that offers a serene escape and picturesque views of the surrounding architecture. This is also a great spot to learn about the city's green spaces and their history.

7
Scott Monument

Admire the Scott Monument, a towering tribute to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most famous literary figures. Hear about his contributions to literature and his lasting legacy.

8

St. Andrew Square Garden

Relax in St. Andrew Square Garden, a lovely green space in the heart of the New Town. This garden is surrounded by impressive Georgian architecture and statues of notable figures.

9

James Clerk Maxwell Statue

See the statue of James Clerk Maxwell, a pioneering physicist whose work on electromagnetism laid the foundation for modern physics.

10

Charlotte Square Private Garden

End your tour at Charlotte Square Private Garden, a beautiful Georgian square designed by Robert Adam. This serene spot exemplifies the elegance and architectural innovation of the New Town.

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
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start at St Giles Cathedral for context.
  • icon
    Consider visiting nearby Grassmarket.
  • icon
    Bring headphones for a better experience.
  • icon
    End your tour at Charlotte Square park.
  • icon
    Check out local cafes for a quick snack.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Embark on a journey of enlightenment in Edinburgh with this captivating self-guided walking tour. Immerse yourself in the world of intellectual giants and freethinkers who shaped the city's history and put it on the map. With the magic of GPS playback, explore Edinburgh like never before and discover the radical ideas that transformed the city in the 1700s.

What to expect?

Expect to delve into the minds of David Hume, Adam Smith, Walter Scott, and James Hutton as you walk through the streets of Edinburgh. Learn about the Enlightenment Movement and how Edinburgh became a hub of new ideas in various fields. Experience the city's rich history and intellectual legacy in a unique and immersive way.

Who is this for?

This self-guided walking tour is perfect for history buffs, intellectuals, and anyone looking to explore Edinburgh's intellectual heritage. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of the thinkers who shaped the city's identity.

Why book this?

Step into the shoes of Edinburgh's intellectual giants and explore the city's rich history in a way that is both educational and entertaining. With the convenience of GPS playback and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, this self-guided tour offers a unique and immersive experience that will leave you enlightened and inspired.

Good to know

Before embarking on this self-guided walking tour, make sure to bring your own smartphone and headphones for the best experience. With unlimited, lifetime access to the tour and the option for virtual playback, you can enjoy the tour at your convenience. Explore Edinburgh's hidden gems and iconic landmarks with ease, and discover the city's intellectual legacy in a whole new light.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced this self-guided walking tour rave about its informative content and engaging storytelling. They praise the GPS playback feature for making navigation easy and seamless, allowing them to focus on the rich history and culture of Edinburgh. Overall, reviewers highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the city's intellectual heritage.

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