Why was a pet blackbird arrested in 1736?
What did a washerwoman insist on before she would pull philosopher David Hume out of a swamp?
Why was Robert the Bruce Edinburgh Castle’s most deadly enemy?
You really couldn’t make up the history of Old Edinburgh!
Seldom in the world can there have been so many odd events and strange goings-on in one town’s story as in Edinburgh, and telling these curious tales is what this tour is all about! Local doctor Moray Grigor is an Edinburgh native and lover of the city, and has been collecting some of the best of its stories to bring to you.
Starting just below the Castle, we’ll be touring down the world-famous Royal Mile, ducking into alleys and back courts as we go, and we’ll be hearing the most outlandish, amusing and fascinating anecdotes of the Old Town, many collected by Edinburgh publisher and author Robert Chambers right back in 1824.
In Edinburgh, truth really is stranger than fiction – as Dr Grigor will be delighted to show you!
We meet near the top of Castlehill (top of Royal Mile) near the head of Castle Wynd North stairs.
Just outside Canongate Kirk in Canongate (lower Royal Mile)
Tales of Bonnie' Dundee's escape from Edinburgh, Allan Ramsay's court appeal, enormous gang fights and water woes!
Tales of rebellious pets, couples at political loggerheads, two-faced businessmen, philosopher-chefs and fake news!
Tales of lame, gangfighting would-be authors, astounded judges, and very mischievous little girls!
Tales of kings in debt, romantic silver spoons, church prayer-stools being thrown, and an unusual resting place for our most famous preacher.
Tales of theatre riots, dull dances, raving beauties, novel financial products, and full-scale rebellion!
Tales of vicious poets, tragic Royal favourites, and eccentric economists!
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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