National Library of Scotland: Self-Guided Audio Tours

Welcome to this self-guided audio tour of Edinburgh, a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. This tour includes a ticket to The King's Gallery, but please note that an audio tour inside The King's Gallery is not provided. Your journey begins at The King's Gallery, located within the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and takes you through various iconic sites. You will explore the historic Palace of Holyroodhouse, walk along the vibrant Royal Mile, visit St Giles' Cathedral, and delve into the rich history of the National Museum of Scotland. Other stops include Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, the National Galleries of Scotland, and finally, the Scott Monument. As you navigate through Edinburgh's Old Town and beyond, you will discover the city's royal history, architectural marvels, and cultural landmarks. You will learn about the lives of former residents, the significance of historical events, and the cultural heritage that makes Edinburgh unique. This tour promises memorable experiences, from the panoramic views of the city from the Scott Monument to the whimsical world of optical illusions at the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.

Discover the city’s most iconic monument with this self-guided audio tour. Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland's capital city from its great volcanic summit. The story of the Castle has helped shape the nation's history: battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been inspired by it. Learn about the many Scottish monarchs it has sheltered, including Queen Margaret (later St Margaret), who died here in 1093, and Mary Queen of Scots, who gave birth to James VI in the Royal Palace in 1566. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of medieval royal intrigues and feel like a participant in historical events in a place where time has stopped.

Let the threads of history weave their magic around you and discover the fascinating story of Scotland through 160 exquisitely hand-stitched panels, chronologically showcasing the nation's history, heritage, innovations, and culture. From the formation of the land itself to the present day, each panel and image is designed to be easily understood, with accompanying text to bring to life tales of struggles, ambitions, successes, failures, and the quest for meaning and belonging. Created by the people of Scotland, the Scottish Tapestry is a majestic tribute to the nation's vibrant history and breathtaking landscapes. With over 1,000 men, women, and children contributing their talents, this Tapestry stands as one of the most ambitious community projects ever undertaken in Scotland – a true work of art by the nation, *for* the nation.

Welcome to Edinburgh, a beautiful modern city with a horrid and brutal past! This self-guided horror walk on your smartphone will take you around the old town of Edinburgh to explore the twisting closes and streets that have played host to some of the most brutal parts of the city's past. This audio walk takes you from the Royal Mile where you will learn why it was once considered as "the world's end". As you walk down to the Grassmarket the audio commentary will reveal the story of Thomas Weir, infamously known as the Wizard of Westbow. The market itself was not only for shopping but for merciless punishment that will send shivers down your spine. Finally, you will walk through Greyfriars Cemetery where you will hear stories about grave robbing, body snatching, and mysterious killings. There are steps involved so be careful as you make your way through the old town. This is not a ghost tour as such, but more a dark history tour. However, that doesn't mean you aren't in for a fright!

This tour is your owl letter to the wizarding world of Harry Potter. NOTICE — no half-giant or wand required. This is self-guided audio tour. All information, including route and excursion itself, will be provided via app. Edinburgh is an old city that gave a hiding place to unemployed single mother. In return, she attracted millions of tourists here to wander the streets looking for magical inspiration. So do not be surprised if the urge to start a book appears. We start at the former Spoon Bistro, the little known place where the first HP book was written. You will then see the school that is speculated to be an inspiration for Hogwarts itself. After that, you will be guided through a mysterious Greyfriars Kirkyard to find the tombstone of Tom Riddell. To warm up, the tour will get you to the busy Victoria street with cafes and souvenir shops. This very street recalls the memories of Diagon Alley and preschool shopping. Through the narrow cobblestone streets, you will see the New College of the University of Edinburgh and gilded handprints of JK in front of the City Chambers. We finish at Balmoral Hotel, the luxurious place where the last HP novel was finished. All addresses, maps, and butterbeer recommendations are provided in a careful manner. The tour is well suited for the first timers in Edinburgh and Harry Potter fans. Experience the magic!

Take a walk around Edinburgh, the home to the forensic science of Scotland! Begin your exploration by considering a plaque at the birthplace of Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of the ingenious Sherlock Holmes. Go on to explore Governor's House as you learn about the real case that served as inspiration for Stevenson to create the infamous Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide from his novel. Immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of Old Surgeon's Hall, which story will unveil the dark times of Edinburgh. Admire the view that opens from Grassmarket, a peaceful street where you would never believe gallows have ever stood. Feel like a detective as you see over the High Court, listening about the cases solved in this imposing building and unraveling their mysteries. And for sure, let your eyes fix on the Heart of Midlothian, a beautiful yet gloomy reminder of the criminals executed right in the heart of Edinburgh. By the end of the tour, you will know everything about crime in Edinburgh, so dive into this city's chilling secrets...

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Scotland and relive the past of Edinburgh! Begin your discoveries of the Old Town with Holyroodhouse Palace and admire the serenity of its park contrasting with the striking modern complex of the New Scottish Parliament. Carry on to John Knox's house while listening to the peculiar life story of its owner, a man by no means ordinary. Go on then to lay your eyes on a gorgeous mass of High Kirk of St Giles, with its intricated Gothic motifs over the walls. After that, don't let the statue of Greyfriars Bobby pass you by, as his story is of an incredible and touching kind. Mount Castle Rock in order to get up close to the majestic figure of Edinburgh Castle looming over the city. You will then have a chance to look over the National Gallery of Scotland, conveniently situated next to the Royal Scottish Academy, so you can visit them both if you wish. Finish your tour with the picturesque view opening from Princes Street before you are left to enjoy the bubbly life of the New Town. Indulge yourself in a relaxing walk right amidst it! Put aside some time and be ready to discover the surprises Edinburgh has prepared for you!

This self-guided audio walking tour explores Edinburgh’s Old Town through its civic landmarks, medieval streets, public art, and green spaces. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want a clear introduction to the city’s history and atmosphere while seeing famous sights up close. Your route begins at Edinburgh City Chambers on the Royal Mile, where the stone facade and arcaded courtyard set the tone for the historic center. From there, you pass the Mercat Cross, the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, the bronze statue of philosopher David Hume, and Makars' Court with its inscribed paving stones honoring Scottish writers. The walk then climbs toward the dramatic rock of Edinburgh Castle, continues by The Hub and the curving houses of Victoria Terrace, and drops into the broad open space of the Grassmarket. The final stretch leads you through the solemn lanes of Greyfriars Kirkyard and into the National Museum of Scotland, before ending at The Meadows, where long tree-lined paths open out into one of the city’s best-loved parks. Along the way, you can expect memorable views of dark volcanic stone, steep closes, castle walls high above the street, a heart-shaped mosaic underfoot, and the striking contrast between crowded medieval lanes and the calm green lawns at the finish.

This self-guided audio walk explores Edinburgh’s royal, religious, and civic history, making it a great fit if you enjoy first visits, old architecture, and stories tied to real places. You follow the route at your own pace, with narration that helps you notice what is right in front of you, from palace gates to stone closes and church spires. The walk begins at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the royal residence sits against the dramatic rise of the Old Town. From there, you move along the Royal Mile past Canongate Kirk, John Knox House, and St Giles’ Cathedral, tracing centuries of power, worship, and debate through medieval streets lined with dark stone and tall tenements. The route then leads you to Greyfriars and on toward the castle area, before continuing to the National Galleries, Princes Street, and the ordered elegance of Edinburgh New Town. Along the way, you will have memorable encounters with the contrast between palace and fortress, the crown-shaped crown steeple of St Giles’, the story of Greyfriars Bobby, sweeping views near Edinburgh Castle, and the sudden shift from the Old Town’s rugged lanes to the broad Georgian streets of New Town. It is a walk that lets you see how Edinburgh wears its history on every wall.

This self-guided audio walk introduces first-time visitors to Edinburgh’s historic core, with a route that suits travelers interested in medieval streets, grand landmarks, and the city’s layered stories. You will hear clear, lively narration as you move at your own pace through some of the most iconic scenes in the Scottish capital. The route begins at Usher Hall, where the curved stone frontage and bronze details set a ceremonial tone. From there, you head toward Edinburgh Castle, perched high on its volcanic rock, then down into the lively Grassmarket, once a medieval market square. The walk continues through tucked-away corners such as Milne’s Court and Riddles Court, then follows the Royal Mile past Deacon Brodies Tavern, St Giles’ Cathedral, the City Chambers, Mercat Cross, and Anchor Close. In the final stretch, you reach Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, spread below the Old Town ridge, before stepping into East Princes Street Gardens. The tour ends at the Scott Monument, a dark Gothic spire rising above the trees and shopfronts. Along the way, the most memorable moments include castle views above the skyline, narrow closes opening suddenly off crowded streets, the crown-shaped tower of St Giles’, and the striking contrast between the stone heights of the Old Town and the green gardens below.