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Free tour

⭐️ Edinburgh’s Top-Rated Local Free Walking Tour - The Local Lad (5⭐️ Rated)

5.00
Excellent(36)
Duration: 2 hours
Languages: English
Registered on 9 October 2025
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I'm a proud Edinburgh local with a passion for travel, history, and sharing stories about my hometown. After studying at Stirling University and living in Australia for a few years, I've spent the last 15 years exploring the world. When I'm not leading tours, you'll find me playing guitar, watching films, or staying active with sports. I love showing visitors the hidden gems and rich history of Edinburgh!
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Would you like to explore Edinburgh with a true local lad, and discover the stories most tours never tell?

My name’s Joe, born and raised in Edinburgh, and I run one of the highest-rated tours on GuruWalk, with 35+ five-star reviews from travellers who call this the highlight of their trip.

This isn’t a scripted history lecture.

It’s Edinburgh brought to life through real stories, dark history, humour, and local insight.


👣 What makes this tour different?

You won’t just see the city, you’ll understand it.

As a local, I’ll take you beyond the guidebook and into:

- The gruesome truths behind Edinburgh’s past

- The quirky traditions and superstitions that shaped the city

- The real stories of the people who lived, schemed, and survived here

All delivered in a fun, relaxed, and engaging style, with plenty of laughs along the way.


🏰 What you’ll experience

We’ll explore the heart of the Old Town, including:

- The iconic Royal Mile and its hidden secrets

- The historic St Giles' Cathedral and its 900-year story

- The dramatic past of Edinburgh Castle (with the best viewpoints)

- The colourful and winding Victoria Street

- The infamous Grassmarket — once home to public executions

- The eerie Greyfriars Kirkyard, full of dark legends and local lore

Along the way, you’ll hear unforgettable stories, including criminals, witches, and the real-life inspiration behind famous literature.

We’ll also uncover how Edinburgh’s New Town helped shape the modern world.


🎭 Who is this tour for?

Perfect for:

Solo travellers

Couples

Friends & groups

Anyone who wants more than just dates and facts

If you enjoy storytelling, humour, and authentic local insight, you’ll love this experience.


🎁 A bonus you won’t get anywhere else

At the end of the tour, you’ll receive my exclusive QR guide, packed with local recommendations, including:

- Where locals actually eat & drink

- Hidden gems most visitors miss

- The best viewpoints in the city


💬 Why travellers love this tour

Guests consistently describe it as:

“The highlight of our trip”

“Entertaining, informative, and completely different”

“A must-do in Edinburgh”


⚠️ Important info

This is a free-to-book, tip-based tour

You pay what you feel the experience was worth

Group sizes are kept limited to ensure a more personal experience


👉 Ready to explore Edinburgh the right way?

Join me and discover the city through the eyes of someone who’s lived it.

Spots fill up quickly, book now to secure your place.


Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:
142 High Street EH1 1QS
I'll be standing with 'The Local Lad' Blue and White branded umbrella, outside New Assembly Close, 142 High Street EH1 1QS (The Royal Mile), right beside The Coffee House.
1
Outside visit
The Royal Mile
2
Outside visit
The Writers' Museum
3
Outside visit
Grassmarket
Tour map

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.

Tour reviews

5.00
Excellent(36)
Generic
36
0
0
0
0
By category
Professionalism
5.00
Fun
5.00
Communication
5.00
Quality
4.97
Route
4.97

Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Suitable for bringing pets.

What should I know?

Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 4 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or card payment accepted.
⭐️ Edinburgh’s Top-Rated Local Free Walking Tour - The Local Lad (5⭐️ Rated)
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