The Royal Mile Edinburg Tourism

The Royal Mile is a succession of streets forming the main thoroughfare of the Old Town in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. The name Royal Mile is a descriptive term coined in the early 20th century for the continuous streets that lead from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Castle Rock, down to Holyrood Palace at the bottom, about a Scottish mile long. The streets which make up the Royal Mile include Castlehill, the Lawnmarket, the High Street, the Canongate, and Abbey Strand. This historic spine of Edinburgh is peppered with a series of small closes and wynds, leading off the main street to courtyards and buildings beyond, revealing the city's dense medieval architecture. Along the stretch, there are numerous historical and cultural attractions, including St. Giles' Cathedral, the Scotch Whisky Experience, and the Scottish Parliament. The Royal Mile is also famous for its souvenir shops, bistros, and annual events such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, making it a bustling hub of activity throughout the year.