Uncover one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
Walking tours of Edinburgh and its history, led by a passionate local guide - my home for over 30 years I think this city is amazing.
What I offer is simple...
Friendly, relaxed and research-based walking tours with no costumed theatrics because Edinburgh's history really doesn't need any dressing-up! I blend aspects of the city's cultural identity, social history, urban design and industrial heritage together to give you a truly unique glimpse into the elements that have shaped Edinburgh into the vibrant cultural capital it is today.
Private and Bespoke Walking Tours
All my Edinburgh walking tours are designed to help you 'get under its skin' by exploring its history, its highlights and its hidden corners.
A private walking tour is one of the best ways to make the most of your time in Edinburgh.
I'll meet you at a time and place that suits you, before we head out to explore the city. I offer a range of tours, from an introduction to the city to a more in-depth look at its rich history and everything inbetween. Whichever you choose, you'll discover what keeps Edinburgh's ancient heart beating as strong as ever and why people want to come back again and again.
Bespoke tours offer complete flexibility so you can experience Edinburgh with a tour tailor-made to you.
This might be looking at a specific area of the city, delving into a topic of personal interest, booking somewhere to eat, visiting a local attraction, organising a route suited to your mobility, or co-ordinating with another local businesses as part of a special day.
Whether you join me for a couple of hours or a whole day, each tour is personally created and guided by me; a local historian who loves this city.
Client Testimonial
Bespoke walking tour of Leith.
"I was looking for something a little bit different for myself and three out-of-town friends to do as part of our annual get-together. Hetty made everything easy to organise and was happy to finish our tour near the restaurant where we had booked our lunch.
Wonderfully researched and amazingly well delivered our tour was good fun and highly informative. We all enjoyed our morning immensely and I couldn’t recommend Hetty more highly!"
L. Ewing, April 2023
Client Testimonial
The Balmoral Rocco Forte Hotel - five-star luxury
"I have been privileged to work with Hetty over the past few years and found her very easy to work with. She is extremely knowledgeable, warm and professional, and most importantly, the feedback from the guests she looks after is absolutely fantastic."
David Musk, Chief Concierge, 2023
Things to Consider
Everyone is different and Edinburgh has lots to offer, far too much to fit into one tour!
To make sure that I create the tour you are looking for please consider the points below and include your thoughts in your enquiry. You can change any details you wish later but it'll give me a good starting point.
How long you want your tour to last?
I offer between 2 - 8 hours, with 4 hours being the most popular.
What pace you would like your tour to be?
Think about whether you want an easy stroll, an active walk, or even a hearty hike!
Does anyone in your party have mobility or health issues?
Edinburgh is a hilly city with plenty of steps and steep slopes, if these are likely to be an issue let me know and I will plan a more suitable route.
Consider what you want to get out of your tour!
Do you want a general introduction to the city and its history, or a tour that focuses on a unique aspect such as its architecture or medical legacy? Perhaps you'd like a tour that goes 'off the beaten track' and explores one of Edinburgh's many local neighbourhoods.
Maybe you just want a tour that offers a little of everything - we can do that too!
One of my mottos is 'happy guests, happy guide' so, whatever you are looking for, let me know so that I can create the perfect tour for you.
Your Guide
Hi, I'm Hetty, a local historian and independent guide.
If you book a tour with me I'll be your guide. In fact, I'll not only be your guide, I will have researched and created your tour too! Below are some things about me to reassure you that you'll be in good hands. I have:
- An MA (Hons) in Social and Architectural History from the University of Edinburgh.
- Studied aspects of heritage interpretation and communication theory.
- A huge appreciation of Edinburgh city and its people through the centuries.
- Over 10 years experience in the local heritage sector.
- Over 30 years of living and working in Edinburgh.
- All the relevant licences and insurance cover.
- Lots of five star reviews.
- Most importantly, I have a genuine love of meeting people from near and far and helping them to discover and explore the beautiful city I'm lucky enough to call home!
I really enjoy my job and, whether you join me for a short local heritage walk or a full-day of bespoke in-depth history, I will always do my absolute best to give you a great experience.
You can see other things I do here and read what other people have said here
Some highlights from previous tours...
