Royal Mile | Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the Royal Mile, the historic heart of Edinburgh, Scotland! This iconic street, stretching from the majestic Edinburgh Castle to the regal Palace of Holyroodhouse, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and charm. As you stroll along its cobbled paths, you’ll be transported through centuries of Scottish heritage, from medieval times to the present day. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Mile is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, historic landmarks, and hidden closes (alleys) that reveal Edinburgh’s past.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a memorable experience, the Royal Mile offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Scotland’s capital.

Location

The Royal Mile is located in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland, running through the city’s historic core. It begins at Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a volcanic rock, and ends at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Spanning approximately 1.81 km (one Scots mile), it comprises several sections: Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate, and Abbey Strand. Nearby landmarks include Princes Street, the Scott Monument, and the Grassmarket, making it easy to orient yourself. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps with “Royal Mile, Edinburgh” as your destination.

Opening Hours

As a public street, the Royal Mile is accessible 24/7. However, its attractions have specific opening hours, which may vary seasonally:

• Edinburgh Castle: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (April–September) and 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (October–March), with last entry one hour before closing. Closed on December 25 and 26.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: Open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (April–October) and 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (November–March). Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except in July, August, and September when it’s open daily.
• St Giles’ Cathedral: Typically open Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Sunday 1:00 PM–5:00 PM, but check for variations.
• The Real Mary King’s Close: Generally open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours in summer.

Check official websites, such as Edinburgh Castle or Palace of Holyroodhouse, for the most current schedules, as hours may change due to events or holidays.

How to Get There

The Royal Mile’s central location makes it easily accessible:

• By Train: Edinburgh Waverley Station is a 5–10-minute walk away. Exit via Waverley Steps to Princes Street, then cross to the Royal Mile via Cockburn Street or North Bridge.
• By Bus: Lothian Buses serve the area, with routes 23, 27, 41, and 42 stopping at High Street or North Bridge. Check Lothian Buses for schedules.
• By Tram: The tram from Edinburgh Airport stops at Princes Street, a short walk from the Royal Mile.
• By Car: Parking is limited in the city center. Nearby car parks include NCP St John’s, NCP Greenside, and Q-Park Waverley. Traffic restrictions may apply, so consider public transport.
• By Foot: The Royal Mile is ideal for pedestrians, easily reachable from most central Edinburgh locations. The scenic walk from Princes Street via North Bridge offers great city views.

Use apps like Waze for real-time traffic updates if driving.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Royal Mile depends on your preferences:

• Summer (June–August): Vibrant due to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, but expect large crowds and higher accommodation costs. The weather is warm, ideal for outdoor exploration.
• Spring (April–June) or Autumn (September–October): These seasons offer milder weather, fewer tourists, and scenic blooms or foliage. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
• Winter (November–March): Charming with festive decorations, especially during Edinburgh’s Christmas, but colder and wetter. Some attractions may have reduced hours.

For a quieter experience, visit early morning or late afternoon, avoiding midday crowds. August is particularly busy due to festivals, so book accommodations and tickets early if visiting then.

Tickets and Costs

Walking the Royal Mile is free, but many attractions charge admission. Below are approximate ticket prices for 2025:

Attraction	Adult	Child (5-15)	Concession	Family
Edinburgh Castle	£21.50	£13.00	£17.00	£52.50
Palace of Holyroodhouse	£21.00	£10.50	£13.50 (18-24)	N/A
The Real Mary King’s Close	£16.50	£9.50	£14.50	N/A
St Giles’ Cathedral	Free (donations welcome)	Free	Free	Free
Scottish Parliament	Free	Free	Free	Free

• Discounts: Available for children, students, seniors, and online bookings. The Royal Edinburgh Ticket includes entry to Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, and other sites.
• How to Purchase: Book online via Edinburgh Castle or Palace of Holyroodhouse to secure spots and save time. Some sites, like St Giles’ Cathedral, accept donations instead of fixed fees.
• Additional Costs: Guided tours or special experiences, like the Palace’s Exclusive Evening Tour (£55.00), may have separate fees.

What to Expect

A visit to the Royal Mile is a journey through Edinburgh’s past and present. Spanning 1.81 km, the street is divided into:

• Castlehill and Esplanade: Home to Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August).
• Lawnmarket: Features historic buildings and specialty shops.
• High Street: Includes St Giles’ Cathedral, the Heart of Midlothian mosaic, and lively street performances.
• Canongate: Known for elegant townhouses and the Scottish Parliament.
• Abbey Strand: Leads to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Park.

Expect to explore hidden closes and wynds, offering glimpses into medieval Edinburgh. Key attractions include:

• Edinburgh Castle: Houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and offers panoramic city views.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: Features royal apartments and Mary, Queen of Scots’ chambers.
• St Giles’ Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained-glass windows.
• The Real Mary King’s Close: An underground tour of 17th-century streets.
• Scottish Parliament: A modern architectural gem with free tours.

A typical visit lasts 3–5 hours, depending on how many sites you explore. Facilities include restrooms at major attractions, numerous cafes and pubs, and gift shops selling tartan souvenirs and crafts. Free audio guides are available at some sites, like the Palace of Holyroodhouse, via their apps.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: The Royal Mile is a busy tourist area, so stay vigilant for pickpockets, especially during festivals. Follow attraction-specific guidelines, such as bag checks at Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Be cautious on cobbled surfaces, which can be slippery when wet.
• Accessibility: The main thoroughfare is relatively flat and wide, but cobbled streets and narrow closes may challenge wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Major attractions offer:
• Edinburgh Castle: Lifts and ramps in some areas, though parts are inaccessible due to historic structures.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: Wheelchairs available, accessible toilets, and a photo journey for planning (Access Guide).
• St Giles’ Cathedral: Step-free access available.
• Family-Friendly: The Royal Mile is suitable for children, with open spaces and family-oriented exhibits at sites like the Museum of Edinburgh. Strollers are manageable on the main street but may struggle in narrow closes.

Check individual attraction websites for detailed accessibility information.

History and Background

The Royal Mile, dating back to the 12th century, is Edinburgh’s historic spine, connecting Edinburgh Castle, the seat of royal power, to Holyrood Abbey, a religious center. Over centuries, it became the hub of Scottish political and social life, hosting parliaments, markets, and public executions. Notable figures like Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie walked its streets. Today, it’s a living museum, with medieval tenements, Georgian townhouses, and modern landmarks like the Scottish Parliament. Fun fact: The Heart of Midlothian mosaic on High Street marks the site of the old Tolbooth prison, where locals traditionally spit for luck (though this is less common now).

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with these nearby sites:

• Grassmarket (5-minute walk): A historic square with pubs, restaurants, and street performers.
• Greyfriars Kirkyard (7-minute walk): A cemetery linked to Harry Potter, with historic gravestones.
• National Museum of Scotland (10-minute walk): Features exhibits on science, art, and Scottish history.
• Calton Hill (15-minute walk): Offers stunning city views and historic monuments.
• Princes Street (5-minute walk): Edinburgh’s main shopping street with boutiques and cafes.

Combine these for a full day of exploration, with short walking times from the Royal Mile.

Practical Tips

• What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for cobbled streets and bring a rain jacket or umbrella for unpredictable weather. A water bottle and camera are handy.
• Rules: Respect historic sites; some, like the Palace of Holyroodhouse, prohibit photography inside. Follow signage and staff instructions.
• Recommendations: Join a guided walking tour (VisitScotland) for historical insights. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in August. Download attraction apps for audio guides. Enjoy street performers, but be cautious of personal belongings in busy areas.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of the Royal Mile?

The Royal Mile is a public street, accessible 24/7. Attractions like Edinburgh Castle (9:30 AM–6:00 PM, April–September) and Palace of Holyroodhouse (9:30 AM–6:00 PM, April–October) have specific hours. Check Edinburgh Castle or Palace of Holyroodhouse for updates.

How much does it cost to visit the Royal Mile?

Walking the Royal Mile is free. Attraction tickets range from £10.50–£21.50; some, like St Giles’ Cathedral, are free with donations welcomed.

Is the Royal Mile suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly with open spaces and kid-oriented exhibits at sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Museum of Edinburgh.

Are there any discounts available for attractions on the Royal Mile?

Discounts for children, students, and seniors are available at many sites. Online bookings often offer savings (Edinburgh Castle Tickets).

How long does it take to walk the Royal Mile?

Walking the 1.81 km takes 20–30 minutes, but exploring attractions can take 3–5 hours.

Is photography allowed on the Royal Mile?

Photography is allowed on the street, but some attractions, like the Palace of Holyroodhouse, restrict indoor photography.

Are there guided tours available for the Royal Mile?

Yes, free and paid walking tours are available, covering history and highlights (VisitScotland Tours).

What’s the best way to get to the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Airport?

Take a tram or bus to Princes Street, then walk 5–10 minutes to the Royal Mile via Cockburn Street or North Bridge.

Is the Royal Mile wheelchair accessible?

The main street is relatively accessible, but cobbled surfaces and closes may pose challenges. Check attraction websites for accessibility details.

Are there dining options on or near the Royal Mile?

Yes, numerous pubs, cafes, and restaurants offer traditional Scottish and international cuisine along the Royal Mile and in nearby Grassmarket.