Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Plan an epic trip to Scotland

Come and experience Scotland’s warm welcome for yourself with an unforgettable holiday packed with beautiful landscapes, unmissable events and, of course, our friendly Scots.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

The Northern Lights in Scotland

Nature's most dramatic winter light display. Discover more about this otherworldly natural phenomenon.

Dark sky parks & stargazing in Scotland

Discover spectacular dark sky parks for stargazing in Scotland. Including a stargazing toolkit, best time of year for stargazing, and more.

Scottish whisky

Whisky is Scotland's best known export and has been proudly produced throughout the country for hundreds of years.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Find hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Experience Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

Get your toes tapping, experience something new, cheer on Scotland at a sporting event, uncover traditions, rich history and more at events and festivals across the country.

Scottish music festivals

See your favourite artists at this year's lineup of Scottish music festivals.

Halloween in Scotland

Discover Scotland’s Halloween happenings and connect with the Celtic roots of this spooky tradition.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Autumn in Scotland

Scotland in autumn is a feast for the senses. Experience golden forests, crisp countryside walks, atmospheric festivals, and magical evenings beneath dark skies.

Autumn breaks

There's lots to do during autumn in Scotland. Find inspiration for half-term breaks and autumn holidays from family days out to walks and activities.

Scottish forests and woodlands

Explore Scotland’s most beautiful forests and woodlands, from ancient trees and peaceful trails to spectacular landscapes and wildlife.

Walking in Scotland

Find out about walking in Scotland including route guides, walking tours, mountains and hills, forests and woodlands, lochs and coastlines, and more.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

Scotland as seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Receive stories and soul‑stirring ideas from those who know Scotland best – the experts. With unforgettable journeys, trip ideas and bucket list destinations, your next adventure begins the moment our inspiration arrives in your inbox.

Holyrood Palace and Abbey

© Fraser Paterson

Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Canongate - a Royal Adventure!

I will take you on a fascinating journey through Canongate. The most fascinating part of the Old Town of Edinburgh. This was the home patch of the Scottish monarchy and their courtiers. The story begins in the 12th century and continues for many more

I will take you on a fascinating journey through Canongate. The most fascinating part of the Old Town of Edinburgh. This was the home patch of the Scottish monarchy and their courtiers. The story begins in the 12th century and continues for many more. Let me show you buildings dating right from the beginning. What part did monks play in the beginning? I will make your imagination sparkle with tails of fascinating royal intrigue. Let me also show you a beautiful, secret garden!

Our walk through the Canongate will begin at the heart of power. Gathering outside the Scottish Parliament, I will tell you about Scotland’s new democratic seat of power, plus show you the front of the palace of Holyrood House and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.

I will then take you down an unsuspecting side street. This was where the stagecoach would leave for London.  I will also tell you tales of the horrible death of the wife of a Duke and an act of unimaginable barbarism from a future member of the same family.

You will see and hear tales of the former Tolbooth jail and court house. Some were tortured and sent to lands afar, never to return. Next we will enter one of Scotland’s most prominent and historic graveyards. Here you will meet one of the most prominent economists the world has ever known, Adam Smith. I will also show you the resting place of the lover of Mary Queen of Scots.

Down another side street we will visit one of the oldest masonic lodge buildings remaining in the world. This was where several great men all walks of life in the past times of Edinburgh attended.

We will complete the tour at what is famously known as World’s End. Why? Find out on a fascinating tour with me, Fraser Paterson.

I have a large number of five star reviews on Tripadvisor in respect of freelance tours I have taken for other companies. Please enquire for further information. 

All enquiries welcome. Please call me on +44 7950 003 885 or e mail me; fraser@edinburghtoursandhistory.com


Price on Request


Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

January — December

Contact details

Edinburgh Tours and History

8/2 Portland Gardens
Edinburgh
Lothian
Scotland
EH6 6NJ

Tour information

Length

Bespoke

Transport

  • Walking

Type

  • Bespoke
  • Private
  • Small Group (1-16)

Languages

  • English

Themes

  • Architecture
  • Geology
  • History
  • Landscapes
  • Literature
  • Walking

Tour Stops

Edinburgh Tours and History

Tour company information

Edinburgh Tours and History

Hello! My name is Fraser Paterson. I work on a freelance basis as an experienced professional tour guide and writer. I offer private walking tours. Choose whatever you wish from the following areas of Edinburgh in which I have expert knowledge. The world famous Greyfriars cemetery, Old Town, Great Inventors of Edinburgh fame, Edinburgh Castle and even a Ghosts and Horrors tour! Tours are by pre-booking and payment only.

Opening times

9am-8pm Monday-Saturday
10am to 8pm Saturday
11am to 8pm Sunday

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The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Plan an epic trip to Scotland

Come and experience Scotland’s warm welcome for yourself with an unforgettable holiday packed with beautiful landscapes, unmissable events and, of course, our friendly Scots.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

The Northern Lights in Scotland

Nature's most dramatic winter light display. Discover more about this otherworldly natural phenomenon.

Dark sky parks & stargazing in Scotland

Discover spectacular dark sky parks for stargazing in Scotland. Including a stargazing toolkit, best time of year for stargazing, and more.

Scottish whisky

Whisky is Scotland's best known export and has been proudly produced throughout the country for hundreds of years.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Find hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Experience Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

Get your toes tapping, experience something new, cheer on Scotland at a sporting event, uncover traditions, rich history and more at events and festivals across the country.

Scottish music festivals

See your favourite artists at this year's lineup of Scottish music festivals.

Halloween in Scotland

Discover Scotland’s Halloween happenings and connect with the Celtic roots of this spooky tradition.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Autumn in Scotland

Scotland in autumn is a feast for the senses. Experience golden forests, crisp countryside walks, atmospheric festivals, and magical evenings beneath dark skies.

Autumn breaks

There's lots to do during autumn in Scotland. Find inspiration for half-term breaks and autumn holidays from family days out to walks and activities.

Scottish forests and woodlands

Explore Scotland’s most beautiful forests and woodlands, from ancient trees and peaceful trails to spectacular landscapes and wildlife.

Walking in Scotland

Find out about walking in Scotland including route guides, walking tours, mountains and hills, forests and woodlands, lochs and coastlines, and more.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

Scotland as seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Receive stories and soul‑stirring ideas from those who know Scotland best – the experts. With unforgettable journeys, trip ideas and bucket list destinations, your next adventure begins the moment our inspiration arrives in your inbox.