The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town and an essential destination for tourists. The "Mile" runs from the castle in the West down to Holyrood Palace in the East and is actually just over a mile in length. Although Royal Mile signposts exist in place the road is today officially divided into four sections: Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate.

There are many points of interest on the Royal Mile and many just off it - the whole length has little alleyways called Closes or Wynds leading off of it. Many of thee are of historical interest, others are simply great looking photo opportunities. During the busiest parts of the summer tourist season the peace and quiet of some of these little areas contrasts markedly with the noise and bustle found on the Royal Mile itself.

Buskers - especially bagpipers and living statues - can be found along much of the Mile, however most of the street entertainment is located on the High Street. In August the High Street is filled with performers from the Fringe.

The Mile is - like much of Edinburgh - on a hill, leading down from the castle to Holyrood. For this reason walking the Mile from East to West can be surprisingly hard work. In 2010 it was reported that Edinburgh Council was planning to install a funicular railway to assist - unfortunately this was an April Fool gag.

There are numerous things to see and do on the Mile, here are a few ideas:

•  Camera Obscura / World of Illusions
•  Edinburgh Castle
•  Ghost Tours
•  Gladstone's Land
•  Heart of Midlothian
•  Holyrood Palace
•  John Knox's House
•  Loch Ness Exhibition (now closed)
•  Mary King's Close
•  Museum of Childhood
•  People's Story Museum
•  Royal Mile Walking Tours
•  Scottish Parliament
•  Scottish Storytelling Centre
•  St Giles Cathedral
•  Whisky Centre
•  Writers' Museum