Edinburgh Self Guided Audio Experience
New To The Site!
Edinburgh, Scotland
3 to 9 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Experience Edinburgh captivating history and hidden secrets at your own rhythm with our expertly crafted audio tour that transforms your smartphone into a personal storyteller. Unlike rushed group tours with rigid schedules, you control the journey pause to photograph stunning architecture, linger in atmospheric closes, or revisit fascinating locations that capture your imagination. Our meticulously researched commentary unveils exclusive historical insights, legendary tales, delivered through crystal-clear narration by professional storytellers whose engaging voices bring centuries of Scottish heritage to life. The superior flexibility allows you to explore during golden hour for perfect photos, avoid crowds by visiting popular sites at unconventional times, and dive deeper into locations that resonate with your personal interests, all while enjoying compelling storytelling that makes every step an adventure filled with "aha!" moments that traditional guidebooks simply cannot provide.
What's Included
- Admission fee
- Private access links are valid until your tour is complete (maximum 6 days)
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 20 attractions with audio guide individually
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for all 20 attractions
- Audio devices (earphones and internet / Wi-Fi)
Meeting Location
Meeting point
Edinburgh
UK
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Edinburgh Waverley Station
Gateway to Scotland's capital, Waverley Station conceals remarkable Victorian engineering marvels beneath its bustling platforms. Your audio guide reveals the station's dramatic construction through solid rock, the ingenious solutions engineers employed to build within Edinburgh's challenging topography, and the secret royal waiting rooms hidden from public view. Discover how this architectural achievement became the launchpad for countless Scottish adventures, while learning about the famous personalities who passed through these halls and the pivotal role the station played during wartime. Explore the intricate ironwork and period details that most travelers rush past, understanding how this transportation hub shaped Edinburgh's modern identity and continues to welcome millions of visitors to Scotland's most enchanting city.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Canongate Kirk
Canongate Kirk stands as Edinburgh's most aristocratic church, where Scottish royalty once worshipped and literary legends found eternal rest. Your audio companion unveils the fascinating stories of notable figures buried in its atmospheric graveyard, including the poet Robert Fergusson who inspired Robert Burns, and reveals the kirk's unique role as the parish church of Holyroodhouse Palace. Wander through the historic cemetery at your leisure, discovering elaborate tombstones that tell tales of Edinburgh's golden age, while learning about the kirk's remarkable survival through religious upheavals and political changes. The audio guide illuminates architectural features that showcase Scotland's Presbyterian heritage and explains the kirk's continuing connection to the royal family, making every gravestone and carved detail a window into Scotland's rich cultural tapestry.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Royal Mile
Scotland's most famous street pulses with eight centuries of dramatic history, royal processions, and medieval intrigue that shaped a nation. Your personal audio guide transforms every cobblestone into a storytelling stage, revealing the hidden closes and wynds where historic events unfolded, from witch trials to royal conspiracies. Explore at your own pace while discovering the street's evolution from medieval marketplace to tourist destination, learning about the colorful characters who lived, worked, and plotted along this ancient thoroughfare. The audio experience unveils architectural secrets in the towering tenements, explains the significance of each historic building, and shares tales of famous residents including John Knox and Sir Walter Scott. Every step reveals layers of Scottish culture, from Highland traditions to Lowland commerce, making the Royal Mile your personal time machine through Edinburgh's most pivotal moments.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
St Giles' Cathedral
Scotland's High Kirk harbors centuries of religious drama, political intrigue, and architectural evolution within its crown spire that defines Edinburgh's skyline. Your audio guide unlocks the cathedral's most guarded secrets, from the historic confrontation between John Knox and Mary Queen of Scots to the hidden symbolism carved into every pillar and archway. Discover the magnificent Thistle Chapel with its intricate medieval craftsmanship, while learning about the cathedral's role in shaping Scottish identity and religious freedom. The audio commentary reveals fascinating details about the stained glass windows, each telling stories of Scottish saints and martyrs, and explains how this sacred space witnessed coronations, royal weddings, and national celebrations. Explore the cathedral's connection to the Scottish Reformation and its influence on Presbyterian churches worldwide, making every prayer book and carved stone a testament to Scotland's spiritual heritage.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Writers' Museum
Literary pilgrimage awaits in this atmospheric 17th-century mansion where Scotland's greatest writers come alive through personal artifacts and intimate stories. Your audio guide provides exclusive access to the creative minds of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson, revealing their inspirations, struggles, and connections to Edinburgh's vibrant literary scene. Discover rare manuscripts, personal letters, and writing implements while learning about the writers' relationships with each other and their impact on world literature. The audio commentary unveils the museum's hidden treasures, including Scott's chess set and Burns' original manuscripts, while explaining how Edinburgh's unique atmosphere influenced their masterworks. Explore the writers' personal lives, their financial struggles, romantic entanglements, and creative processes, making every display case a window into the minds that created Treasure Island, Ivanhoe, and Auld Lang Syne.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
National Library of Scotland
Scotland's literary treasure house safeguards millions of books, manuscripts, and documents that chronicle the nation's intellectual heritage from medieval times to the digital age. Your audio guide reveals the library's most precious collections, including original manuscripts by Scottish authors, historic maps that shaped exploration, and rare books that survived centuries of political upheaval. Discover the library's role in preserving Scottish Gaelic culture, its connections to famous scholars and writers, and the fascinating stories behind its most valuable acquisitions. The audio experience explains the library's architectural significance, its evolution from private collection to national institution, and its ongoing mission to democratize knowledge. Explore the reading rooms where generations of researchers made groundbreaking discoveries, while learning about the library's digital innovations and its crucial role in maintaining Scotland cultural memory for future generations.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
George IV Bridge
Engineering marvel and architectural gateway, George IV Bridge connects Edinburgh's Old and New Towns while concealing fascinating secrets beneath its elegant Victorian facade. Your audio guide reveals the bridge's construction challenges, its role in Edinburgh's urban development, and the hidden chambers and vaults that lie beneath the street level. Discover how this vital thoroughfare transformed the city's layout, enabled new commercial opportunities, and became home to some of Edinburgh's most important cultural institutions. The audio commentary unveils the bridge's connection to famous residents and visitors, its significance during major historical events, and the architectural innovations that made its construction possible. Explore the surrounding area's evolution from medieval settlement to modern cultural quarter, while learning about the bridge continuing importance in connecting Edinburgh past with its vibrant present and how it exemplifies Scottish engineering excellence.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Greyfriars Bobby
Edinburgh's most beloved canine legend immortalized in bronze tells an extraordinary tale of loyalty that captivated hearts worldwide and became Scotland's most famous dog story. Your audio guide separates fact from fiction in Bobby's remarkable story, revealing the true circumstances of his vigil and the real people behind the legend. Discover how this small Skye Terrier's devotion to his master's grave transformed into a global phenomenon, inspiring books, films, and countless pilgrimages to Edinburgh. The audio commentary explores the statue's creation, the international fundraising efforts that made it possible, and the ongoing debate among historians about the story's authenticity. Learn about Victorian Edinburgh's relationship with animals, the social conditions that made Bobby's tale so compelling, and how his story reflects broader themes of loyalty, love, and loss that resonate across cultures and generations.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Greyfriars Kirk
Sacred ground where Scottish religious freedom was born, Greyfriars Kirk witnessed the signing of the National Covenant that changed Scotland forever. Your audio guide unlocks the kirk's pivotal role in Scottish history, from the dramatic events of 1638 to its evolution into Edinburgh's most atmospheric spiritual sanctuary. Discover the fascinating stories carved into elaborate tombstones throughout the historic graveyard, including the mortsafes designed to prevent body snatching and the elaborate mausoleums that house Edinburgh's most prominent families. The audio experience reveals the kirk's architectural evolution, its survival through religious conflicts, and its connections to famous historical figures including the real Greyfriars Bobby. Explore the atmospheric interior with its period features and memorial plaques, while learning about the kirk's continuing role in Edinburgh's spiritual life and its significance as a symbol of Scottish independence and religious liberty.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Grassmarket
Medieval marketplace and execution ground, Grassmarket pulses with centuries of commerce, celebration, and somber history beneath its colorful Victorian facades. Your audio guide reveals the square's transformation from cattle market to entertainment district, while sharing tales of the notorious public executions that drew crowds from across Scotland. Discover the hidden histories of the surrounding buildings, from ancient inns that sheltered travelers to the tenements that housed Edinburgh's working classes. The audio commentary unveils the area's connection to body snatchers, religious martyrs, and literary figures who frequented its taverns and lodging houses. Learn about the colorful characters who shaped Grassmarket identity and how this atmospheric location continues to embody Edinburgh complex relationship between sacred and profane.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Meadows
Edinburgh's beloved green heart offers respite from urban intensity while harboring fascinating stories of social change, public health, and community spirit. Your audio guide reveals The Meadows' transformation from swampy wasteland to cherished public space, including the engineering marvels that made its creation possible. The audio commentary explores the park's connection to medical history, its significance during major epidemics, and its evolution into a democratic space where Edinburgh's diverse communities converge. Learn about the famous events held here, the architectural landmarks that surround the park, and the ongoing efforts to preserve this green oasis. Explore how The Meadows reflects Edinburgh's values of public access, social equality, and environmental stewardship that continue to define the city's character.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
St. Mary's Cathedral
Gothic Revival masterpiece and Scotland's largest ecclesiastical building, St Mary's Cathedral represents Edinburgh's Victorian ambitions and architectural excellence. Your audio guide reveals the cathedral's fascinating construction story, from its controversial funding to the international competition that selected its design. The audio commentary unveils the cathedral's unique features, including its impressive spires that punctuate Edinburgh's skyline and its role in Scotland's Episcopal tradition. Explore the connections between the cathedral and famous historical figures, its significance in Edinburgh's religious landscape, and the architectural innovations that make it a masterpiece of 19th-century church design. Learn about the cathedral's musical heritage, its community outreach programs, and its continuing role as a center of worship and cultural activity in Scotland's capital.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
St Cuthbert's Parish Church
Ancient parish church with royal connections, St Cuthbert's has served Edinburgh's spiritual needs for over a millennium while harboring secrets of Scotland's religious evolution. Your audio guide reveals the church's remarkable history, from its origins as a medieval foundation to its current status as Edinburgh's oldest parish church. The audio commentary explores the church's architectural evolution, its survival through religious upheavals, and its connections to Edinburgh Castle and the royal court. Learn about the church's role in major historical events, its significance in Scotland's Presbyterian tradition, and the remarkable artwork and memorials housed within its walls. Explore how St Cuthbert's represents continuity in Edinburgh's religious life while adapting to serve changing community needs across the centuries.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
St. John's Scottish Episcopal Church
Architectural gem at the west end of Princes Street, St. John's represents Edinburgh's Episcopal heritage and Victorian ecclesiastical design at its finest. Your audio guide unveils the church's unique position in Scottish religious history, its connections to prominent Edinburgh families, and its role in maintaining Episcopal traditions during challenging periods. The audio commentary reveals the church's social significance, its charitable works, and its connections to educational and cultural institutions throughout the city. Learn about the famous ministers who served here, the church's role in Edinburgh's social history, and how it adapted to serve an increasingly diverse congregation. Explore the church's continuing mission, its architectural significance, and its place in Edinburgh's rich tapestry of religious and cultural heritage.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Princes Street Gardens
Victorian landscaping masterpiece and Edinburgh's most beloved public space, Princes Street Gardens offers dramatic views of the castle while concealing fascinating stories of urban planning and social transformation. Your audio guide reveals the gardens' creation from the drained Nor Loch, the engineering challenges overcome during construction, and the vision that transformed swampland into Scotland's most beautiful urban park. The audio commentary explores the gardens' role as Edinburgh's democratic gathering place, its significance during major celebrations and festivals, and its evolution into a space that welcomes all social classes. Learn about the horticultural innovations, the seasonal displays that attract visitors year-round, and the ongoing conservation efforts that preserve this green oasis. Explore how the gardens embody Edinburgh's commitment to public beauty, accessibility, and environmental stewardship.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Calton Hill
Edinburgh's most dramatic viewpoint and philosophical monument to Scottish Enlightenment, Calton Hill offers panoramic vistas while housing architectural treasures that embody Scotland's intellectual ambitions. Your audio guide reveals the hill's transformation from natural prominence to monumental landscape, including the fascinating stories behind each building and memorial. The audio commentary explores the hill's connections to famous philosophers, scientists, and artists who shaped Scottish culture during its golden age. Learn about the political rallies and celebrations held here, the hill's significance in Edinburgh's urban planning, and its continuing role as a symbol of Scottish achievement and aspiration. Explore how Calton Hill represents Edinburgh's unique blend of natural beauty, architectural ambition, and intellectual excellence.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
National Monument
Scotland's "modern Parthenon" stands as Edinburgh's most ambitious architectural statement and controversial symbol of national pride and unfulfilled dreams. Your audio guide reveals the monument's fascinating origin story, from its conception as a memorial to Napoleonic War dead to its transformation into a symbol of Scottish cultural aspirations. The audio commentary explores the monument's significance in Scottish identity, its role in Edinburgh's skyline, and its influence on Scottish architecture and urban planning. Learn about the famous architects involved in its design, the political and social circumstances that shaped its creation, and how this "noble ruin" became more famous for being incomplete than many completed monuments. Explore the monument's continuing symbolism and its place in Edinburgh's complex relationship with classical architecture and national identity.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Arthur's Seat
Edinburgh's ancient volcanic peak offers breathtaking panoramas while harboring geological secrets and archaeological treasures that span millennia of Scottish history. Your audio guide reveals the mountain's dramatic formation, its significance in Edinburgh's geological story, and the fascinating discoveries made by scientists and archaeologists on its slopes. The audio commentary explores the mountain's role in Scottish folklore, its connections to Arthurian legend, and the ongoing scientific research that continues to unlock its secrets. Learn about the diverse ecosystems that thrive on its slopes, the conservation efforts that protect its unique environment, and the cultural significance that has drawn visitors for centuries. Explore how Arthur's Seat embodies Edinburgh's unique landscape, its geological heritage, and its continuing importance as a natural sanctuary in Scotland's capital city.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Holyrood Park
Royal hunting ground and Edinburgh's largest green space, Holyrood Park encompasses Arthur's Seat while preserving centuries of Scottish royal history and natural heritage. Your audio guide reveals the park's evolution from medieval royal forest to public recreational space, including the fascinating stories of royal hunts, political intrigue, and dramatic escapes that unfolded within its boundaries. The audio commentary explores the park's diverse ecosystems, its role in conservation efforts, and its significance as habitat for rare plants and wildlife. Learn about the park's connections to famous historical figures, its use during major events and celebrations, and its continuing importance as Edinburgh's premier outdoor recreational space. Explore how Holyrood Park represents the successful balance between heritage preservation, environmental protection, and public access that defines modern Edinburgh.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
World-renowned scientific institution and horticultural paradise, Edinburgh's Botanic Garden houses plant collections from across the globe while advancing botanical research and conservation. Your audio guide reveals the garden's evolution from physic garden to international research center, including the fascinating stories of plant hunters who risked their lives to build these extraordinary collections. The audio commentary explores the garden's architectural treasures, including Victorian glasshouses that recreate tropical environments and specialized collections that showcase plants from every continent. Learn about the famous botanists who worked here, the garden's role in introducing new species to Scotland, and its continuing mission to educate the public about plant conservation. Explore the themed gardens, seasonal displays, and hidden corners that make every visit a discovery of natural beauty and scientific wonder.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can choose where to start and finish according to your preference.
- How Our Self-Guided Audio Tour Works:
- 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
- 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
- 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
- 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
- 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
- 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
- What to Bring: * Headphones/Earphones * Fully charged smartphone * Internet access
- *While all the tourist attractions mentioned above are free to visit, please note that travelers will need to purchase their own tickets if any attraction charges fees for special sections or has recently implemented fees for additional services.
- Select your preferred audio guide language during booking. Language selection cannot be changed after confirmation. If your language isn't available, contact us 48+ hours in advance and we'll prepare it specially for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Edinburgh Self Guided Audio Experience?
Cancellation Policy
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-18568P200
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Edinburgh Self Guided Audio Experience?
A:Apr 2025
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Admission fee.
- Private access links are valid until your tour is complete (maximum 6 days).
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 20 attractions with audio guide individually.
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for all 20 attractions.
The following is NOT included:
- Audio devices (earphones and internet / Wi-Fi).
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Edinburgh Self Guided Audio Experience is as follows:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Edinburgh Self Guided Audio Experience will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Admission fee
- Private access links are valid until your tour is complete (maximum 6 days)
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 20 attractions with audio guide individually
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for all 20 attractions
- Audio devices (earphones and internet / Wi-Fi)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can choose where to start and finish according to your preference.
- How Our Self-Guided Audio Tour Works:
- 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
- 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
- 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
- 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
- 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
- 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
- What to Bring: * Headphones/Earphones * Fully charged smartphone * Internet access
- *While all the tourist attractions mentioned above are free to visit, please note that travelers will need to purchase their own tickets if any attraction charges fees for special sections or has recently implemented fees for additional services.
- Select your preferred audio guide language during booking. Language selection cannot be changed after confirmation. If your language isn't available, contact us 48+ hours in advance and we'll prepare it specially for you.
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