Highlights of the Royal Mile
The street connecting the castle and palace
The east–west road connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse is known as the Royal Mile. Its name changes by section to Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate, and buildings such as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Old Tolbooth line the route, conveying the history of religion, local government and commerce.
St Giles’ Cathedral
St. Giles' Cathedral is a cathedral of the Church of Scotland. It is said to have been founded by King David 1 of Scotland in 1124.
This is a statue of Adam Smith, known as the “father of economics” and for works such as The Wealth of Nations.
For information about the cathedral’s history, architecture, and visitor information, see the article on St Giles’ Cathedral.
John Knox’s House and the Streetscape Along the Road
John Knox was a leader of the Scottish Reformation. He is known for fiercely opposing Mary, Queen of Scots, who was a Catholic under French influence.
At John Knox’s House, the timber section projects over the street from the stone lower level, creating living space above the narrow frontage.
Stone buildings line the Royal Mile, and the street between them slopes down from the castle towards Holyrood.
Fudge is a traditional British confection. Alongside classic butterscotch, there are various flavours such as strawberry and cream.
Canongate Tolbooth
A tolbooth is a uniquely Scottish building that served as a parliament, courthouse, and prison. Canongate is the name of the district. Canongate Kirk is located next to it.
Basic Information about the Royal Mile
The information below was checked against official sources on October 11, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- Edinburgh’s tourism information provides details on the highlights and transport around the Royal Mile.
The Royal MileBased in the Old Town and within a World Heritage site, the area is culturally and historically important to the ci...edinburgh.org - 📍 Location
- Royal Mile, Old Town, Edinburgh
- 💶 Price
- Walking along the Royal Mile is free. The castles, museums, churches and other attractions along the route have different admission fees and opening hours, so check the official information for each place you plan to visit.
- ⏱️ Time required
- Allow around 2 to 3 hours to see the lanes and exterior of the buildings along the street. ⚠️ If you plan to visit paid attractions or include a meal, allow at least half a day.
Getting to the Royal Mile
From Edinburgh Waverley station, walk uphill towards the Old Town and you can reach the Royal Mile in about 5 minutes on foot. The route rises towards the castle and is generally downhill towards Holyrood, with cobblestones and slopes along the way. If you are walking one way only, choose your starting point based on whether you would rather walk uphill or downhill.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Edinburgh: A Guide to Attractions, Food, Transport and Suggested Itineraries”.
