Edinburgh Old Town and Countryside Explorer
Tour Highlights
Meet Highland Cows
Craigmillar Castle-A Hidden Gem
Explore the Local Village of Swanston
Edinburgh's Atmospheric Old Town
Overview
Through our our Edinburgh Old Town and Countryside Tour, experience Edinburgh’s wonderful dual personality in one perfect day – from medieval closes to Highland Cows, hidden gems to peaceful villages, all within minutes of the city centre.
From the atmospheric streets of the Old Town, brimming with historical references, antiquated quirks and castle views, to the tranquil countryside and picture-book views of Scotland just minutes from the city centre, this wandering local tour takes you beyond the usual tourist trails.
Discover hidden corners of medieval Edinburgh, explore a magnificent castle, wander through a charming conservation village and meet our friendly Highland Cows – all while maximising your precious time in Scotland’s capital.
Itinerary
Information
Discover everything you need to know about this tour, including highlights, itinerary details, inclusions, exclusions, and important travel information.
Full Itinerary Details
Perfect for those seeking to experience the best of Edinburgh in a single day:
Total duration: 11 hours
Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour – 2.5 hours
- Explore the atmospheric Royal Mile
- Discover hidden closes and secret gardens
- Visit St Giles’ Cathedral exterior and crown spire
- Learn about the city’s dark history and fascinating characters
Lunch at Local Hidden Gem
- Traditional Scottish cuisine
Get picked up in a Scottish Odyssey vehicle, where your adventure continues outside the city centre
Craigmillar Castle
- Explore Edinburgh’s ‘other castle’
- Discover the connection to Mary Queen of Scots
- Climb the tower house for panoramic city views
- Explore the prison cells and great hall
Swanston Village and Farm
- Visit this charming conservation village
- See Robert Louis Stevenson’s summer house
- Take in views of the Pentland Hills
- Photo opportunities with the thatched cottages
Meet The local Highland Cows
- Get your chance to see them up close
- Stroke their red coats
- hear about the history of their breed and how the farmer cares for them here
Afternoon Tea
- Relax in an elegant brasserie setting
- Selection of traditional Scottish treats
- Perfect end to your Edinburgh adventure
– Back to Edinburgh
Tour Includes
- Professional driver/guide
- Standard Transport in Vauxhall Vivaro minibus– up to 8 passengers
- Personalised tour itinerary creation, review and finalisation
- Restaurant bookings
- Excursion and ticket bookings
- Tree planted with Future Forest Company
What's Not Included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Excursion and ticket costs
- Craigmillar Castle:
Adult: £7.50
Child (5-15): £4.50 - Afternoon Tea: From £12pp
- Craigmillar Castle:
Excursion Costs
- Excursion and ticket costs
- Craigmillar Castle:
Adult: £7.50
Child (5-15): £4.50 - Afternoon Tea: From £12pp
- Craigmillar Castle:
Important Information
- Season: All year round
- Physical level: ♦️♦️
- Time on the road: 1 hours 20 mins
- Door-to-door service: Choose your pick-up/drop-off location
- Tour Co-ordinator assigned upon booking – communicate via email or video call to finalise arrangements
- Customisable – let us know if you’d like to adjust any elements of the tour
- Lunch arrangements – discuss preferences with your Tour Co-ordinator
What To Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes – a few of the walking locations can get rather muddy!
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Water bottle
Sustainability
At Scottish Odyssey, we are dedicated to responsible tourism. We partner with The Future Forest Company to plant a tree for every tour booked, ensuring we give back to Scotland’s beautiful landscapes. Our commitment to sustainability also extends to collaborating with local communities and minimising road travel where possible.
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