Travel Plan
Royal Mile

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · EDINBURGH

Royal Mile

The historic spine of Edinburgh's Old Town, from the castle down to Holyrood Palace.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
2 hours
Entry
Free
Best time
Morning or evening
Area
Old Town

The historic street linking the castle and Holyrood Palace, full of closes and shops.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Royal Mile, Old Town, Edinburgh

  • On foot: Runs about 1.8 km downhill from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • From Waverley: Steps and closes lead up from the station.
  • Closes: Explore the narrow alleys ("closes") branching off the street.

The story of the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is roughly one Scots mile long and links Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Tall stone tenements line the route, some among the oldest buildings in the city.

Along the way are St Giles' Cathedral, with its crown-shaped spire, museums, shops and hidden closes. In August it fills with performers during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Best time to visit

Best season

May to September; August for the Fringe.

Best time of day

Early morning before crowds, or evening.

Weather

Bring a raincoat; showers are common.

Tips before you go

  • Explore the narrow side alleys, called closes.
  • Step into the closes for hidden courtyards and views.
  • Visit St Giles' Cathedral's Thistle Chapel.

Best hotels near the Royal Mile

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

The Balmoral

Grand hotel above Waverley Station.

See prices

The Witchery by the Castle

Gothic suites next to Edinburgh Castle.

See prices

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian

Castle views from the West End.

See prices
All hotels near the Royal Mile

What's around the Royal Mile

  • St Giles' CathedralMedieval cathedral on the Royal Mile.
  • Edinburgh CastleAt the top.
  • Palace of HolyroodhouseAt the bottom.
  • Scottish ParliamentModern building opposite Holyrood.

Questions travellers ask

How long is the Royal Mile?

About 1.8 km.

Is it free?

Yes, walking the street is free.

What is a close?

A narrow alley leading off the main street.

More in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

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Victoria Street

Victoria Street

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Calton Hill

Calton Hill

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Arthur's Seat

Arthur's Seat

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Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Read the guide
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Travel Plan · Royal Mile Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure