Women Hidden in Plain Sight: A Self-Guided Tour of Edinburgh
Description
Edinburgh’s historic Old Town has countless stories of remarkable women whose lives were overlooked by history or deliberately erased from its pages. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll peel back the layers of the city’s past, and hear about the queens, activists, and innovators who shaped Scotland’s capital. The tour starts at the famous graveyard, Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you’ll hear about some of the trailblazing women who left their mark on the city. As you wander through Edinburgh’s historic alleyways, I’ll tell you fascinating stories about extraordinary women, from medieval queens, affluent heiresses, and rulebreakers, to the abolitionist Eliza Wigham, whose influence resonates further down the Royal Mile. You’ll hear some of the chilling legends behind The Real Mary King’s Close and celebrate Flora MacDonald’s heroic rescue of Bonnie Prince Charlie after his Jacobite army suffered a crushing defeat.
Tour Options
Itinerary
You'll catch a glimpse of the strong and imposing Edinburgh Castle, once home to countless monarchs, including some of Scotland's most remarkable queens. Please note that entry to the castle is not included in this tour.
You'll stroll along the historic Royal Mile, uncovering stories of remarkable women whose contributions shaped this iconic street. Please note that entry to any venues along the Royal Mile is not included in this tour.
You'll pass by St Giles' Cathedral, where you'll uncover the story of a rivalry marked by faith and misogyny, which played a role in the tragic downfall of one of Scotland's most infamous queens. Please note that entry to the cathedral is not included in this tour.
You'll pass by the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a historic residence of queens, kings, and the royal court. Discover the story of two women whose unique backgrounds made them the subject of prejudice and scrutiny. Please note that entry to the palace is not included in this tour.
You'll pass by the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, where you'll uncover the fascinating history of Maria Short, a pioneering woman whose entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting legacy. Please note that entry to the attraction is not included in this tour.
You'll pass by the Greyfriars Bobby Statue, where you'll learn about Angela Burdett-Coutts, a remarkable arts patron often overlooked in history, once dubbed the "richest woman in all of England." Please note that entry to nearby attractions is not included in this tour.
You'll pass by the Scottish Parliament Building, a symbol of Scotland's evolving political landscape. At this stop, you'll hear about influential women who fought for change and progress, leaving legacies that deserve celebration. Please note that entry to the parliament building is not included in this tour.
You'll pass by The Witches Well, a memorial to those unjustly persecuted during Scotland's dark witch trials between 1479 and 1722. Learn about the women, many of whom were burned at the stake nearby, and the water fountain commissioned in their memory. Please note that entry to the well or nearby sites is not included in this tour.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Reviews(1)
Amazing. Anna was such a gem. The tour included multiple sights with endless stories, backed with history and anecdotal stories. It was such an interesting tour, we were all captivated with her presentation.
