FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions
Listed are answers to frequently asked questions posed by customers using Edinburgh Walks services. Edinburgh walks offer unique private guided walks through parts of this UNESCO World Heritage city for individual groups of up to eight people.
How do I book a guided walk?
It’s easy. Once you have made your choice and checked availability then e-mail Edinburgh Walks at [email protected] or contact us through the Contact Form giving details of the walk you wish to go on, the date you wish to walk, the total number of people in your party and your contact details. We will then get back to you with confirmation and/or further details of the private guided walk.
As this is a private guided walk there will be no one else there except for you, your group and the guide.
Are Edinburgh Walks Registered?
Edinburgh Walks guides are registered with the City of Edinburgh Council and are licensed to guide within the five historic city graveyards in the World Heritage Site area: Greyfriars, Canongate, St.Cuthbert’s, Calton Old and Calton New. So much of Edinburgh’s history is tied to the occupants of these burial grounds and a visit to at least one of these sites should be part of your private guided walk.
Edinburgh Walks is also registered with Visit Scotland, the Scottish Tourism Agency.
Do You Take Guided Walks Into Edinburgh Castle?
Along with the majority of guides in Edinburgh we DO NOT take guided walks into Edinburgh Castle. Unfortunately the Castle Authorities make it very difficult for external guides to provide a good service within the Castle Estate by restricting our movements and not allowing us into any buildings.
However we believe Edinburgh Castle is a great place to visit and would encourage you to purchase tickets and self guide.
How long do the walks take and what distance do they cover?
Each walk will take approximately three to four hours including the opportunity to stop, shop, rest and take photographs. The walks are taken at a leisurely pace and are approximately six to ten kilometres in length.
Do I have to be fit and what are the conditions underfoot?
As long as you are reasonably fit you will be fine. Each walk will entail some steps and an incline or two (Edinburgh is built on at least seven hills!) but most of the walking is on pavements (sidewalks) and footpaths. Please feel free to ask about your chosen walk when you make your initial enquiry.
What clothes and footwear should be worn?
Make sure you wear comfortable waterproof walking shoes, boots or a pair of good quality trainers (sneakers). Something with ankle support would be ideal. With regard to clothing, check the weather beforehand and dress appropriately.
Where do each of the walks leave from?
As long as your accommodation is reasonably central to Edinburgh city then we will start from there.
If it is not possible to start the walk from your accommodation then an alternative central meeting point will be arranged.
What language does the guide speak?
Each walk will be guided in English.
I have a special interest which I would like to explore whilst in Edinburgh. Can you help?
Edinburgh Walks would be happy to assist. If you have a specific occupation, interest, pastime or activity, or if your visit coincides with an event of personal interest we can build a bespoke walk to suit you and your party. Our chief aim is to provide you with a private guided walking experience of the highest quality.