Edinburgh in a Day Tour with Private Early Access to Edinburgh Castle

This wasn’t just a tour — it was a journey through centuries of Edinburgh’s layered history, and Tom from Walks was the perfect guide to lead it. One of the most unforgettable parts? Getting early access to Edinburgh Castle and seeing the Scottish Crown Jewels before the gates officially opened. That quiet, crowd-free moment made the experience feel truly special — like we were getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse into history. Tom is one of those rare guides who strikes the perfect balance between historical depth, humor, and warmth. He walked us through winding closes and iconic landmarks with the kind of storytelling that pulls you in and keeps you hooked — from cannonballs in castle walls to unicorns on the Scottish coat of arms, and even a personal story about his mother-in-law baking scones for soldiers stationed at the castle. He has a gift for making complex history not just understandable, but alive and meaningful. And even when logistics got tricky (late arrivals, shifting groups), he handled everything with grace and good humor. The structure of the tour — from Castle Hill to the Lawnmarket and beyond — gave a deep sense of Edinburgh’s past and present. Tom didn’t just show us the city. He made us feel it. If you’re looking for a tour that’s rich, thoughtful, and totally unforgettable, book with Walks — and ask for Tom if you can. The structure of the tour — from Castle Hill to the Lawnmarket, and the fishbone layout of the Royal Mile — gave a deep sense of Edinburgh’s evolution. You don’t just learn facts with Tom, you feel the heartbeat of the city. If you want a walking tour that feels like a conversation with a local who truly loves and understands this city, Tom with Walks is the one. Edinburgh came alive because of him. Pro Tip: ask about the secret gardens