The Witchery’s Guide of Things to Do in Edinburgh Old Town

With its narrow wynds and distinctive medieval layout, Edinburgh’s Old Town is a testament to the capital’s rich history. A must visit for any visitor, new or old alike, this celebrated part of the city is packed full of history and charm, with plenty of things to do dotted throughout the Royal Mile and beyond.   

Of course, Edinburgh Castle is an unmissable destination for any intrepid traveler, but there’s also centuries of history waiting to be discovered outside its gates. 

Explore the heart of medieval Edinburgh with an indulgent stay at the capital’s most opulent gothic hotel where once hundreds of women and men charged with witchcraft met their deaths at the stake and explore the surrounding historic area complete with hidden closes, dark tales and its fair share of quirky rest stops in which to grab a bite to eat or drink. 

Let’s explore things to do nearby to The Witchery in Edinburgh's Old Town.

1. A Ghost Tour of Edinburgh Underground

For those who enjoy being captivated by the darker side of history, the Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour is not something you should miss. 

See the world renowned Greyfriars Kirkyard in the dead of night as you learn the history behind why Edinburgh is widely considered the most haunted city in the world. 

With theatrics like no other, this is as much a performance as it is an opportunity to see Edinburgh’s history first hand with a tour that takes you through the Edinburgh Vaults - the perfect option for those who love history!

2. A Tour of Edinburgh Castle

Taking a tour of prestigious Edinburgh Castle - a stone’s throw from The Witchery - is a must. One of the biggest attractions in the Old Town and possibly in the nation, you’ll find yourself enchanted by its grandeur and gothic extravagance.

There’s many ways to enjoy the Castle and its grounds, ranging from having a wander on your own terms or taking a pre-defined tour to show you all the best locations. Learn all about its lengthy and impressive history as well as its importance to Scots of all creeds.

Fun Fact: the Castle is the most besieged place in the entirety of Europe, having survived 23 sieges at different points in history.

3. Visit the Fruitmarket Gallery

For those looking to indulge in more modern history in the opulent backdrop of Edinburgh’s Old Town, then enjoying the display of contemporary art on show at Fruitmarket Gallery is certainly something to put on your to do list.

The Gallery is known for exhibiting art from internationally significant, contemporary artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Martin Creed, Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller, and many more.

What's more, after enjoying the Gallery, you can explore the Fruitmarket further to experience a taste of the area’s history and stop by some of the best shops that Edinburgh’s Old Town has to offer.

4. Visit St Giles Cathedral

The extraordinary gothic obelisk of St Giles Cathedral is an architectural wonder that you need to see with your own eyes. Situated in the heat of High Street, the Cathedral dates back to the 1100s and serves as a cornerstone of Scottish religious history.

The Cathedral is, to this day, still an active place of Worship but also offers tours, guides, and its attendants are happy to impart its rich history to visitors.

Fun Fact: the Cathedral still serves as a building of importance by providing services to The Most Ancient and Most Notable Order of the Thistle as well as providing the Kirking of the Parliament.

5. Tour the Scottish Writers Museum

From Robbie Burns to Sir Walter Scott, this museum is a haven for those that enjoy the romance of literature. Featuring exhibits from famous Scottish writers from all periods of history, you can view personal artefacts and even original works - all for free.

Tucked away in the Old Town, this museum is as ornate itself as the precious treasures it exhibits. Do be sure to pack light when you pop through for a visit - it does have rather steep and narrow stairwells!

6. Grab a Page Turner At Armchair Books

Nothing goes with Edinburgh’s charm like a magical, vintage-style bookstore that feels like it's been taken straight from a rom-com.

Even for those who aren’t entirely fond of reading as a hobby, this bookstore’s enchanting atmosphere is worth the visit at the very least.

Situated in West Port, you can stop in for a brief visit at an iconic bookshop that is every bookworm’s dream and visit one of the most popular shops in Old Town.

7. Visit The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is another must-see place in Edinburgh’s Old Town. With the museum itself being surrounded in history it's only fitting that it hosts some of the most antiquated and sought after relics from world history.

With everything from The Maiden (an early form of the guillotine) to Pictish Stones, Celtic Broaches, and St Ninian’s Isle Treasure - there’s an abundance of history to indulge in.

8. Explore the Royal Mile

The heart of old town is of course The Royal Mile and while you’ll find plenty of things to do in the capital’s most famous area, there’s nothing quite like strolling through the many sections that make up the Mile and soaking up the atmosphere. 

You’ll find Castlehill and Castle Esplanade located closest to Edinburgh Castle, can pop into endless souvenir shops on Lawnmarket, can stop for a bite to eat on the High Street, or pop in for a drink at one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh, The World’s End, at Canongate. Don’t forget to explore the Abbey Strand too where you’ll find Parliament Square.

9. Tour Around the Scottish Parliament Building

You don’t have to be passionate about politics to enjoy exploring the Scottish Parliament Building. Located in Edinburgh’s Holyrood area, the bold design by architect Enric Miralles was intended to mirror the Scottish landscape with a striking debating chamber at the heart of the space.

You can learn more about the building’s architecture and the history of the Scottish parliament through a guided tour by booking ahead on the Scottish Parliament website or opt for a self-guided visit and explore any public area including the main hall without booking in advance if you happen to be visiting the area.

10. Discover Curiosities at Surgeons' Hall Museums

It’s no secret that Edinburgh has a wealth of fascinating museums to explore but if you prefer your discoveries a little more on the gruesome side, then you’ll want to pop into the Surgeons’ Hall Museum. 

This hidden gem is home to the largest and most historic pathology collections in the UK so expect to see everything from bone and tissue specimens to tattooed skin from a deserting soldier.

11. Go Back in Time at the Real Mary King's Close

Edinburgh is famous for its small alleyways located along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, known as closes, which are a significant part of the capital’s dark and storied history. While some are easy to spot by eye, the capital also hides a few secrets with the Real Mary King’s Close being one of the most famous examples of Edinburgh’s hidden history.

Once a warren of hidden closes where real people lived, the 17th-century site is open to the public for pre-booking, where you can wander the close and discover the stories of real residents from character guides for yourself.

12. Visit Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions

It’s not just fascinating dark history that awaits you in Edinburgh; it’s also customary to have plenty of fun whilst in the Scottish capital. There’s many attractions to explore but if you’re looking for something for all the family, discover over 100 illusions at Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions. 

There’s five floors to explore, with interactive hands-on exhibits and a Rooftop Terrace available in which you can take spectacular cityscape photographs from.

13. Pop into Edinburgh's First Cat Cafe, Maison De Moggy 

Cat lovers rejoice! If you’re looking to enjoy your beverage alongside the capital’s most adorable residents, then Maison de Moggy should be on your radar. The site was the first cat cafe to open in Scotland, offering a homely, cosy environment in which to relax in fine feline company.

There’s typically around eight resident cats to meet and greet, and you’ll likely find them climbing, playing or snoozing in the cafe’s many nooks and crannies designed specifically to create a stimulating and stable environment.

14. Discover Regional Whiskies at the Scotch Whisky Experience

Not sure whether you like a sweet or a smoky flavour? Allow the Scotch Whisky Experience to educate you on everything you ever needed to know about whisky.

There’s a number of tours to choose from led by whisky experts, with tastings available so you can discover your next favourite tipple. The tours aim to take you on a full sensory journey so expect a blend of whisky and cuisine with many of the experiences. Not to mention learning all about the fascinating history of this famous drink.

Elevate Your Visit With The Witchery

Our prestigious hotel at the gates of Edinburgh Castle with its roots firmly seeded in the Old Town is the perfect place to stay while you enjoy all these Edinburgh attractions.

The Witchery is where opulence and gothic wonder meets luxury, with a AA 5 Gold Star Restaurant and the largest wine collection in Edinburgh. Feel a part of the history and enjoy the romance of staying in a sixteenth century building adorned with carefully curated antiques by reserving a decadent suite at The Witchery.

Explore More of Edinburgh

Discover more wonderful things to do in Edinburgh, and continue reading:

• Get lost in Edinburgh Old Town with our top things to do
• Explore our favourite art galleries in Edinburgh city centre
• Takes a look at our guide to unusual gift experiences Edinburgh
• Bring your significant other with our list of the most romantic things to do for couples in Edinburgh