Women Hidden in Plain Sight: Uncovering Edinburgh’s Old Town

Edinburgh’s historic Old Town has countless stories of remarkable women whose lives were overlooked by history or deliberately erased from its pages. On this 60-minute walking tour, you’ll peel back the layers of the city’s past, and hear about the queens, activists, and innovators who shaped Scotland’s capital. The tour starts at the famous graveyard, Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you’ll hear about some of the trailblazing women who left their mark on the city. As you wander through Edinburgh’s historic alleyways, I’ll tell you fascinating stories about extraordinary women, from medieval queens, affluent heiresses, and rulebreakers, to the abolitionist Eliza Wigham, whose influence resonates further down the Royal Mile. You’ll hear some of the chilling legends behind The Real Mary King’s Close and celebrate Flora MacDonald’s heroic rescue of Bonnie Prince Charlie after his Jacobite army suffered a crushing defeat. The tour ends outside the Scottish Parliament, where you’ll have an opportunity to reflect on the evolving role of women in the country’s political and cultural landscape. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to: • Admire the majestic Palace of Holyroodhouse, a symbol of Edinburgh’s royal heritage, where I’ll tell you the secret to knowing whether or not a royal is paying a visit • Encounter remarkable figures including Margaret, Queen of Scotland, and Mary, Queen of Scots, whose lives are intricately tied to iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and St. Giles Cathedral • See your reflection outside the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, the quirky home to mind-boggling exhibitions, and learn about Maria Theresa Short, the innovative woman behind its design • Walk down Castlehill and spot the Witches Well, built in memory of the hundreds of women who were burnt at the stake between 1479 and 1722 for suspected witchcraft • Explore Edinburgh’s landmarks through a feminist historical lens • Hear the tale of Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal terrier whose love for his master warmed the nation’s hearts Join me for an unforgettable journey that brings to light the untold stories of Edinburgh’s remarkable women, offering a fresh perspective on the city’s rich history and enduring legacy.

Price: £11.99 from VoiceMap