Royal Mile

We spent part of Friday and most of Saturday walking up and down the Royal Mile. It you are looking for traditional souvenirs, you will find it here. Prices vary from shop to shop, I bought a stuffed animal of 6#s less than a store a few doors down. This area has a lot of great restaurants and all kinds of street performers.

Our trip coincided with the Fringe festival - place was mobbed! Otherwise, an experience walking up/ down the famous mile and admire the Edinburgh Castle. Lots of street performers, souvenir shops and restaurants dotted along the street. Tip: don't just buy from the first souvenir shop on the top of the mile! We noticed that shops further down along the mile were selling at cheaper prices! Would imagine that the atmosphere is slightly less hectic and more enjoyable outside the Fringe festival season (which happens the whole month of August)!

Journey Through Scotland's History - The Royal Mile, Edinburgh As an extension of our NC500 journey, we visited Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, an enchanting street that encapsulates Scotland's rich and varied history within its bustling thoroughfare. Stretching from the majestic Edinburgh Castle to the regal Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is a feast for the senses. The cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and the vibrant atmosphere make it feel as if you've stepped back in time. There's something for everyone on the Royal Mile. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the many closes (narrow alleyways) leading off the main street, each one with its own story to tell. The various historic sites, museums, and landmarks, including St Giles' Cathedral, offer fascinating insights into Scotland's past. Shopping enthusiasts will find a variety of unique stores offering everything from traditional Scottish tartan to locally crafted jewellery. The numerous restaurants and cafes serve a wide range of food, offering something to suit every palate. Do try the traditional Scottish delicacies! Street performances, particularly during the Fringe Festival, add to the lively, festive atmosphere of the Royal Mile. Despite its popularity, the wide street and its many offshoots mean it never feels overly crowded. Easy access to public transportation and well-signposted pedestrian routes make navigating the Royal Mile a breeze. Do remember, it's a fairly steep walk, so comfortable shoes are a must. In conclusion, the Royal Mile is an unmissable part of any visit to Edinburgh. Whether it's history, shopping, food, or just a vibrant atmosphere you're after, the Royal Mile has it all. It's not just a street; it's an experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Scotland.

I really enjoyed the family day out at the fringe as usual. I know it's more than a day event and can't wait to come one day for longer. The Royal Mile is always packed with entertainers and street shows. It's an event truly like no other. The fringe always packs put the royal mile and what I like is the diversity of the people we meet. This year weet people from all over the globe coming to celebrate the arts. Plenty of places are erected to accommodate more shows and events as well as additional food areas. Highly recommended to everyone.

4 stars only because all the shops are very much "tourist priced" however 5 stars for simply having a great place to sit, enjoy a coffee, talk with friends etc... Just make sure to bring a decent budget if you plan to come here often. Also, try to come outside the festival dates (pretty much any time except August) as it will be packed from rear to ear with tourists