History of the Edinburgh Royal Mile

"Royal Mile" by Dave W licensed under C.C. by 2.0

Inhabited for over 7,000 years and complete with a castle of grand proportions, meandering closes and worn-down cobbled streets, it’s hardly surprising that the epicentre of Edinburgh’s unique past is its famous Royal Mile.

Known for its gruesome tales and triumphant stories of glory, the Royal Mile is steeped in rich history. However, the name “Royal Mile” is perhaps a little misleading – without doubt it’s an energetic walk, but it’s actually over a mile in length – by 107 yards. Always the central focus of the city, the name Edinburgh was derived from the Gaelic “Dun Eidyn” which translates appropriately into “hillfort on the sloping ridge.”

It wasn’t until 1124 that the Royal Mile began to thrive. King David I, was inspired by the hill fort (now known as Edinburgh Castle) supported by the iconic crag rock. Granting trading rights to the Township, the Lawnmarket became an open-air market. King David I continued to develop the town, planning out the Via Regis (“Way of the King”) – now better known today as High Street.

The Royal Mile became a hotspot and sought after housing area. Eventually, by 1591, conditions had devolved from luxury residencies to increasingly squalid and unsanitary conditions in stone-built residencies. The only exceptions were the wealthy, tucked away in the fashionable Cannongate area. 1645 brought more squalid conditions, and by this time it is estimated around 70,000 people were permanently residing in the Royal Mile, in accommodation reaching fourteen stories high and often with ten people sharing a single room.

The end of the 18^th Century began to see some improvement, particularly with the introduction of street cleaning. In 1865, acting Lord Provost William Chambers focused on restoring the city to its former glory, ordering restorations and new tenement flats to be built. Town planner, Partick Geddes, in the 1880s continued to build on this work and form the foundations of the Edinburgh we know today.

Find Out More About the History of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

Edinburgh’s history knows no bounds – from tales of body-snatchers roaming dimly-lit graveyards in the dead of night, to the practice of drowning suspected witches in the town’s drinking water well. To find out more about the harsh realities of 17^th century life in Edinburgh, why not visit its ancient streets for yourself? Book one of our tours and explore the RealMary King’s Close and the history of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Have a Super Scottish Summer 2014

Scotland has so much more to offer than many people think. When we consider where we will go for a summer break or an annual holiday we tend to focus more on what the weather is going to do, which is why so many people head away from the British Isles. However, if you are not as concerned about the weather and you would actually like to explore the beautiful United Kingdom then why not head to Edinburgh? Even if live in the great city, there's probably plenty you haven’t seen yet.

Edinburgh with a Fringe on Top

For instance, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival  is one of the most interesting parts of the arts festival and people come from miles over and from many different countries just to experience it. The fringe takes place for three weeks every August you will find over 250 different venues that participate in the festival and whether you have been before or are new to it you will find something you will enjoy. All of the venues are around the city so they are all within a rough walking distance from one another. There are also plenty of places to shop and eat along the way, with many venues offering food and drink to customers.

The Real Mary King’s Close

Murder, suspense and sinister behaviour are closer than you think in Edinburgh. Take the wild ride and head down to The Real Mary King’s Close, lurking beneath the Royal Mile and go on a journey through the gruesome history of the City. Our Gold Experience centres on the deep and intriguing underbelly of the historical city and you will hear tales of execution, murder and plagues. You will be treated to a tour of our underground streets as well as a look at the ‘above ground’ city too. Your costumed characters will walk and talk you through the entire intriguing experience and regale you with stories and facts about the darkest part of Edinburgh’s history.