We start our tour at one of Edinburgh’s newest landmarks – the new Scottish Parliament, designed by Catalan architect Miralles.  Then you’ll hear about one of the city’s oldest sites.  In the twelfth century King David was hunting when he saw a stag with a cross or ‘rood’ between its horns.  This site prompted him to establish an abbey on that site and we’ll tell you how the great palace of Holyroodhouse developed over the centuries from this mythical event.

As you walk up the Royal Mile you’ll hear about the history of Edinburgh from the settlers who set up camp where the castle now is through Scotland’s struggles with English invaders and the time of the Covenant which established its Presbyterian church.  We’ll show you John Knox’s house and explain what his First Blast Against the Monstrous Regiment of Women actually meant.

At St Giles Cathedral we’ll explain how this French saint came to become patron saint of Edinburgh.  We’ll tell you the moving story behind the Greyfriars Bobby – the dog who was so loyal to his master before we move up to the Castle.  You’ll hear about how the great canon, Mons Meg and the Honours of Scotland disappeared and were found again – in a very unlikely place. 

Then we’ll move onto the Mound where you’ll be able to visit the National Gallery of Scotland and hear how Princes Street Gardens replaced the filthy Loch Lor and were part of a massive improvement in the look – and the smell – of Edinburgh.

The Scott Monument was created to celebrate the life the great Scottish patriot Sir Walter Scott and we’ll show you what to look out for on the ‘Gothic rocket’ and also about Sir Walter’s amazing discovery.  Then it’s off to New Town, the greatest example of modern town planning.