Become Sherlock Holmes an Immersive Experience in Edinburgh

Edinburgh , Scotland

Become Sherlock Holmes an Immersive Experience in Edinburgh

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About this experience

The Industrial Revolution has already left its mark on the city and its inhabitants, with thick black smoke in the sky and a growing population. Modern crimes have now spread in the streets of the city, and a young man becomes fascinated by their intricacies. A young student, heading to the Edinburgh Medical School to try to become a doctor, all the while dreaming of writing stories: Arthur Conan Doyle

Explore Edinburgh with our costumed, storyteller who will give you Sherlock Holmes' greatest mystery: the detective himself.

First, retrace the steps of Arthur Conan Doyle with our tour guide and discover the places which inspired the author when he created his famous Sherlock Holmes stories. Did you know that bodies used to be dug out by students in Greyfriars Cemetery? Or that Joseph Bell, Conan Doyle’s teacher, was a doctor consulting for the Scottish police?

After your 2h private guided tour, warm yourself in a restaurant mixing chemistry and good food.

Available options

Become Sherlock Holmes an Immersive Experience in Edinburgh

What's included

Lunch with main dish & 1 molecular cocktail or mocktail

2h Private acting guided adventure

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the historic college where Arthur Conan Doyle studied medicine and gained inspiration for his Sherlock Holmes stories.

Stop 2

Explore the darker side of Edinburgh's history, including infamous criminals and gruesome punishments. This attraction can give you a sense of the city's criminal underworld and the inspiration that Conan Doyle may have drawn from it.

Learn about the history of medicine and surgery, including some of the techniques and tools used during the time of Conan Doyle. This museum also has a special section dedicated to the infamous duo of Burke and Hare, two murderers who sold corpses to medical schools.

Discover the literary history of Edinburgh, including the works of Arthur Conan Doyle and other famous writers such as Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott.

Stop 5

Explore the hidden streets and underground vaults of Edinburgh, including the notorious Close that was home to some of the city's most dangerous criminals. This attraction can give you a sense of the city's dark and dangerous past, and the inspiration that Conan Doyle may have drawn from it.

Stop 6

Warm yourself in a restaurant mixing chemistry and good food. Have fun experimenting with foaming and bubbling cocktails/mocktails and food

Available languages

Guide guide

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Next to Convenanters Memorial, 87 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HJ, UK. The tour guide will wait for you at the meeting point. She/he will be wearing a bowler hat or a deerstalker and a green light lanyard.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture