Mary Queen of Scots: Edinburgh Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour

On this self-guided tour, you’ll unravel the mysteries and murders surrounding Scotland’s most famous monarch. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Edinburgh’s old town.

Have you ever wondered what life was like in Edinburgh during the reign of Mary Queen of Scots? On this walking tour, we’ll explore the hidden corners and the major landmarks in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town through the eyes of Scotland’s most famous monarch. You’ll find a new story on every corner while weaving in and out of the narrow, closed, and cobbled streets. I’ll tell you about the murders and mysteries surrounding Mary and how these tragic events unfolded right here in Scotland’s capital.

Along the way, I’ll tell you about two of Mary’s three husbands, Lord Darnley and the Earl of Bothwell, and her lover, David Rizzio. I’ll show you the John Knox House, where the leader of the Reformation is buried, outside St Giles Cathedral. You’ll also hear about his conflict with Mary.

Starting outside this royal residence, imagine Mary’s court life. Hear the sordid story of Lord Darnley murdering Mary’s lover, David Rizzio, within its very walls.

As you pass through this quaint courtyard, learn about its historical significance and how Queen Mary kept her horses here.

Walk through this ancient churchyard where David Rizzio is reportedly buried. The kirk’s peaceful ambiance belies the drama that unfolded during Mary’s reign.

Discover the intrigues of Huntly House and hear about the Gordon Earl’s plan to kidnap the Queen. This historic building offers a glimpse into the political machinations of the time.

Pause at this traditional market cross, a focal point for public announcements. Imagine proclamations being read out here during Mary’s reign.

See the house of Mary’s adversary, John Knox, and learn about his intense conflict with the queen. This house is one of the oldest in Edinburgh.

Stand outside this grand cathedral where John Knox is buried. Hear about his fiery sermons against Mary and the Reformation’s impact on Scotland.

Stroll along this historic thoroughfare, absorbing the medieval atmosphere. The cobbled streets and narrow closes transport you back to the 1500s.

As you walk past this vibrant section of the Royal Mile, learn about its historical significance. The bustling market area was central to life in medieval Edinburgh.

Pass by this historic courtyard where Mary’s court once met. The beautifully preserved architecture offers a window into the past.

Admire this 17th-century tenement and hear about daily life in Mary’s time. The restored rooms offer insights into how people lived centuries ago.

Reflect on this poignant memorial to those accused of witchcraft. Learn about the dark history of witch trials in Edinburgh.

End your tour in the shadows of this majestic fortress. Discover where Mary’s son, James VI of Scotland, was born and hear about the castle’s strategic importance.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

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

• Tickets to optional attractions en route

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VOICEMAP CODE

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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You’ve been sent an eight character code you’ll need to redeem your tour. 

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you’ve booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you’ve received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/London.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.