Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours 5.0 (6)

Enchanted Walk: Remarkable Edinburgh's Georgian New Town

Discover the stories of remarkable residents who shaped the world, and wander through enchanting streets. A hidden gem in Edinburgh's heart awaits!

Walking is undoubtedly the best way to see the city so bring a sturdy pair of shoes to deal with the cobbled streets!

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Step back in time at The Old Shakespeare's Theatre, a building steeped in history. Imagine the Bard's plays coming alive on this very stage, once frequented by royalty like George IV and literary giants like Sir Walter Scott.
  • Channel your inner detective at the Sherlock Holmes Statue. Standing near where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the mind behind Sherlock, was born, this is a must-see for any fan.
  • Get ready to know about Mary Bruntons life, her writing style and her different books.
  • Visit 3 Great King Street, the former residence of J.M. Barrie, the story's creator. Let your imagination soar as you learn about the origins of this beloved tale.
  • Learn about Peter McLagan, Scotland's first Black Member of Parliament, at Peter McLagan, a landmark honoring his achievements.
  • Discover the legacy of Mary Somerville, a brilliant 19th-century scientist and mentor to Ada Lovelace, a founding figure in computing.
  • Explore the former residence of James Clerk Maxwell, whose groundbreaking work on electromagnetism revolutionized modern technology.
  • Wander through 46-48 Moray Place, a prestigious 19th-century neighborhood designed for Edinburgh's elite. Admire the architectural splendor that once housed the city's most influential residents.
  • Encounter the Catherine Sinclair Monument, a rare tribute to women in Edinburgh. Celebrate her contributions to children's literature and philanthropy.
  • Visit 6 Charlotte Square, the birthplace of Catherine Sinclair, and marvel at Robert Adam's architectural masterpiece. This grand residence has housed historical figures like Lord Lister and was a center of Edinburgh's literary scene.
  • Finally, explore 39 North Castle Street, the former residence of Sir Walter Scott. Immerse yourself in the world of this literary legend, whose works shaped Scotland's romantic image of castles and breathtaking landscapes.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Per person
Hosted experience lasting up to 3 hours
Private and tailored to your group only
Immersive walking experience between stops
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations)

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Apple Edinburgh, 10 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2AN

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

Edinburgh! It practically hums with history, but there's magic hiding around every corner, not just at the iconic castle. Buckle up for an unforgettable adventure through the city's heart, where buildings whisper secret stories and legendary figures come alive!

Your key to unlocking these hidden gems? Your awesome host, of course! From the birthplace of Peter Pan to the haunts of Sherlock Holmes, get ready to be transported through time. You'll explore the captivating world of literature, the groundbreaking discoveries of science, and everything in between. This isn't your typical tour – it's a whirlwind adventure filled with intrigue, wonder, and a sprinkle of local charm!

First stop: The Old Shakespeare's Theatre, a history buff's dream come true! Imagine audiences from all walks of life, even King George IV himself, enthralled by dramatic performances on this very stage. Your host will spill the tea on the theater's colorful past, from its early days as a post office to its grand performances.

Calling all Sherlock Holmes fans! You'll channel your inner detectives at the Sherlock Holmes Statue. Snap a pic with your favorite literary sleuth, and your host will share fascinating stories about Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the mastermind behind the legend.

Prepare to be bewitched! Next, you're off to 3 Great King Street, the former residence of J.M. Barrie, the creative genius who brought Peter Pan to life. Feel the magic swirling as your host dives into the origins of this timeless tale, revealing the inspiration behind Neverland and Tinker Bell.

History buffs, rejoice! You'll learn about Peter McLagan, a man who shattered barriers by becoming Scotland's first Black Member of Parliament. Standing at Peter McLagan, a landmark honoring his achievements, your host will share his inspiring story of fighting for equality.

Ever heard of Mary Somerville? A brilliant 19th-century scientist who defied expectations! Your host will unveil the groundbreaking work of this trailblazer, a mentor to Ada Lovelace, a pioneer in computing. You'll discover how Mary's research paved the way for future generations of female scientists.

Feeling inspired? Get ready to walk in the footsteps of another genius!You'll explore the former residence of James Clerk Maxwell, a scientific powerhouse whose work changed the world. Your host will illuminate the life of this physicist whose theories on electromagnetism revolutionized modern technology – everything from light to Wi-Fi!

Ready for a history and architecture double whammy? You'll wander through 46-48 Moray Place, a prestigious neighborhood designed for Edinburgh's elite. Admire the architectural splendor and hear stories of the prominent figures who once called this area home.

Let's pay our respects! You'll encounter the Catherine Sinclair Monument, a rare tribute to women in Edinburgh. Your host will tell you the inspiring story of Catherine, a champion for children's literature and philanthropy.

Literary fans, we haven't forgotten you! You'll visit 6 Charlotte Square, a landmark steeped in literary history. This magnificent building was the birthplace of Catherine Sinclair and also housed Lord Lister, a pioneer in antiseptic surgery. Your host will reveal the fascinating stories woven into these walls. Don't forget to snap a pic!

Finally, the grand finale! You'll explore 39 North Castle Street, the former residence of Sir Walter Scott. Imagine Scott crafting his iconic works within these very walls! Your host will bring his world to life, sharing tales of his inspiration and the lasting impact he had on shaping Scotland's romantic image.

This captivating journey promises an unforgettable experience filled with hidden gems, literary legends, and scientific breakthroughs.  Your awesome host will be your expert guide, ensuring you don't miss a single detail and capturing those picture-perfect moments to forever remember your exploration of Edinburgh's magic!  Are you in?

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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What travelers think of this experience

Ross Apr 2025

Really great customizable tour. Tom was friendly, enthusiastic, highly knowledgeable and tailored stories and sites perfectly to keep our 7 and 10 year old engaged — so much so that they were sad when the tour ended. A+ all the way!

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Kevin Apr 2025

Our tour guide was fantastic. Very knowledgeable of the area and he showed us and educated us about the area. The kilt was a nice touch. Definitely would recommend this private tour. It does include alot of walking.

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Don Apr 2025

This was an exceptional experience. Edinburgh is a fascinating city with a dramatic history. Gains is a superb guide with an amazing grasp of the historic and “hidden gems” of the city. He has a PhD understanding coupled with a pleasant and friendly manner. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

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Jodi Apr 2025

If you are a gin lover, this is the tour for you and if you are really lucky you will get James as your guide. Once he found out where we were staying he adjusted to meet us at our hotel. We visited 3 great gin pubs and gained so much knowledge about how gin is made, the different blends, why it came to be in Scotland, and also learned a lot of Scottish history and culture along the way. This is a must do tour!!!!

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Jodi Apr 2025

If you are a gin lover, this is the tour for you and if you are really lucky you will get James as your guide. Once he found out where we were staying he adjusted to meet us at our hotel. We visited 3 great gin pubs and gained so much knowledge about how gin is made, the different blends, why it came to be in Scotland, and also learned a lot of Scottish history and culture along the way. This is a must do tour!!!!

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Don Apr 2025

Gains is fountain of knowledge and a highly interesting presenter. He was thoughtful and helpful in every way.

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