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Royal Mile Edinburgh | Your Ultimate Photoshoot Tour
The Royal Mile is a photographer’s playground. From romantic couple shoots to playful family sessions, the Royal Mile offers everything from grand backdrops to quirky hidden gems. And if you love the idea of a little adventure, why not make it a treasure hunt-style photoshoot? We’ll wander through the closes, discover secret spots and make some incredible memories along the way.
Why is the Royal Mile so famous?
The Royal Mile feels like Scotland’s heart, it sits prominent right in the centre of Edinburgh and it’s holding cultural, historical and geographical importance.
It was a route travelled by royalty for hundreds of years, a 1.13- mile stretch (an old Scot’s mile) that connects Edinburgh Castle (which sits on top of an extinct volcano) to Holyrood Palace along a gentle tail of rock which was carved out by ice age glaciers. With over 80 narrow alleys (or “closes”) branching off the main street, it’s packed with hidden corners, incredible vistas, and stories waiting to be uncovered. In August, it becomes filled with entertainers as the centre of the famous Edinburgh Festival.
Can You Get Married on the Royal Mile?
Yes and I’d recommend it! The Royal Mile is packed with stunning wedding venues, from the famous Edinburgh Castle to the royal charm of Riddles Court, the romance of the Signet Library or the historic Edinburgh City Chambers. It’s the perfect spot for a city centre wedding with places for your guests to easily explore while you get photos taken around the cobbled streets.
Is the Royal Mile worth visiting for photos?
It’s a dream backdrop, picture yourself exploring with centuries-old cobblestones underfoot, charming medieval architecture around you, and maybe the distant sound of bagpipes echoing off the walls. It’s jam-packed with landmarks and hidden nooks that beg to be photographed, we can make your photo session an adventure as we uncover secret little worlds down some of the many closes.
Here are top pics of places to explore as you walk down the mile:-
Edinburgh Castle’s Esplanade
At the top of the Royal Mile, the esplanade offers panoramic views and a striking setting with Edinburgh Castle as the centrepiece.
Camera Obscura
With its unique black and white dome, Camera Obscura is a quirky landmark that pops up in many Royal Mile photos. It’s a fun stop to explore the crazy mirrors outside, and if you love optical illusions, it’s worth exploring inside.
Riddles Close
Riddles Close is my favourite close on the Royal Mile. It leads you into Riddles Court with its quirky 16th-century architecture, external pentice staircase, and striking orange façade. The inside is just as striking with beautiful period features including the little window booths overlooking Victoria Street.
Gladstones Land
A restored example of an Edinburgh 17th century tenement, 6 storeys tall with an arcade frontage. It’s also a good coffee/hot chocolate stop!
Makar’s Court
I love this peaceful courtyard with its inscribed flagstones and romantic - swing around - traditional lamppost, perfectly sited with Lady Stair's House (the Writers Museum) behind.
Advocate’s Close
The archway into the narrow alleyway is famed for its framing of the Scott Monument. It’s a very busy spot and I would recommend better spots for a good view of the monument.
St Giles’ Cathedral
With its iconic crown steeple and intricate Gothic architecture, St Giles’ Cathedral is a striking backdrop for photos.
Parliament Square and Chambers Courtyard
Behind St Giles’, you’ll find the secluded, cobbled Parliament Square, surrounded by archways and interesting little photo spots. Across the road, the Chambers Courtyard also offers some great archways. I love exploring this area for some more intimate shots.
John Knox House
One of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, the John Knox House is a beautifully preserved slice of medieval Edinburgh — ideal for historic-themed shoots.
Chessels Court
Home to the hidden "Ivy Heart" wall, this secluded courtyard is home to the lovely "Ivy Heart" wall — a romantic, lesser-known spot for photos.
Canongate Tolbooth (Tolbooth Tavern)
I love the distinctive clock tower and stone staircase of the 16th-century Canongate Tolbooth which once served as the Canongate burgh’s Council Chamber, Prison and Court.
Bakehouse Close
Step back in time at Bakehouse Close with its stone steps and archways. If you’re an Outlander fan, you might recognise it as Jamie Fraser’s print shop.
White Horse Close
Once the palace’s ancient stables and later a coaching inn for weary travellers from London, White Horse Close is now a charmingly restored courtyard with a fairytale feel — perfect for cosy, intimate shots.
Holyrood Palace & Abbey
At the foot of the Mile, the area around Holyrood Palace is steeped in historic charm, perfectly contrasted by the bold, contemporary lines of the Scottish Parliament and Dynamic Earth — all set against the natural beauty of Holyrood Park.
Movie Photoshoot - What has been filmed on the Royal Mile?
If you’re a film buff, the Royal Mile is a star in its own right. Let’s bring a touch of cinematic flair to your shoot with a little walk through some iconic film spots:
Outlander - Bakehouse Close (Jamie Fraser’s print shop)
Avengers: Infinity War - Royal Mile, Cockburn Street & St Giles’ Cathedral
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga - Royal Mile & St Giles’ Cathedral
Cloud Atlas - Chambers Courtyard
T2 Trainspotting - Cockburn Street
Frankenstein (2024) - Various areas along the Royal Mile
Jude – Parliament Square
One Day – Parliament Square
Guilt – Various areas on the Royal Mile
Rebus – Various areas on the Royal Mile
Fast and Furious 9 – the High Street on the Royal Mile
📸 Want to capture your own movie-worthy moments? Let’s create a photoshoot inspired by these film locations.
Foodie Favourites
In my opinion, an adventure has to involve some tasty treats, if you’re the same, I’d recommend exploring some of these places around the Royal Mile.
- The Witchery – famed for it’s luxury food and opulent decor
- The Fudge House – tasty fudge (you can also watch the fudge being made)
- Gladstones Café – a beautiful place for a tasty hot chocolate and coffee
- Devils Advocate – great for whisky cocktails and food
Why Book a Royal Mile Photoshoot with Me?
Laid-Back & Fun Approach
No stiff poses here. I’ll guide you lightly when needed, but mostly I’ll encourage you to be yourselves — laugh, chat, explore — while I capture the natural moments. We’ll turn the photoshoot into more of a relaxed stroll (with a friend who happens to have a camera 😉). This keeps you comfortable and the photos genuine and joyful.
Local Knowledge
I’ve spent my life enjoying Edinburgh and know all the little tricks: which closes allow for a peaceful intimate moment, where you’ll get that picture postcard view of the Castle or which are the best shortcuts.
Adventure-Style Sessions
Let’s make it fun! How about a treasure hunt-style shoot where we explore the closes and hidden gems while I capture you discovering Edinburgh’s secret spots?
Photos That Feel Like You
My goal is always to deliver images that reflect your personalities and connection, you’re at the heart of the story with the Royal Mile as your stage.
A Shoot Tailored To You
Whether you’re enjoying fudge with your kids or sharing a quiet, nose-snuggling moment in a deserted close or looking fabulous in the golden light, I’ll tailor the shoot to your vibe. You’ll receive photos that are unmistakably you, in a place that’s unmistakably Edinburgh.
Royal Mile FAQs
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Walking straight down takes about 15 minutes, but for a photoshoot, we’ll slow down, explore, and really take in the atmosphere — usually around an hour to an hour and a half, depending on how many hidden spots we want to uncover.
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Absolutely! The Royal Mile is a public street, open 24/7, and it doesn’t cost a penny to explore area any time of day or night.
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Sunrise: Soft, golden and quiet. Ideal for a calm, intimate vibe.
Sunset: Bustling streets and warm, dusky light as the sun sets, we can capture the glow of the traditional street lamps.
Rain or Shine: A little drizzle or fog can add a moody, atmospheric feel — just bring a clear umbrella or just smile and embrace the rain! After all, a bit of unpredictable weather is part of the Edinburgh experience. 🌧️
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You really can’t miss it — just look up and head for the castle. It’s the main spine of Edinburgh’s Old Town, running from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace. If you’re coming from Waverley Station, you can choose between:
A quick climb up Fleshmarket Close or the colourful Scotsman Steps (steep but direct!)
A leisurely stroll around Jeffrey Steet
A scenic wander up Cockburn Street
P.S. As part of my Edinburgh Area Guide series, if you loved hearing about the Royal Mile, be sure to check out my other guides - like my recent blog on Calton Hill and it’s amazing viewpoints.
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
15 Of The Best Photo Spots Edinburgh
Where are the best photo spots in Edinburgh for your city centre wedding? This handy little photo location guide to the top 15 photo spots in Edinburgh is here to help with photographs from real weddings as inspiration for your city centre adventure.
Where are the best photo spots in Edinburgh for your city centre wedding?
This handy little photo location guide is here to help with photographs from real weddings and a handy little map of city centre highlights. They are all close to the city centre & perfect to easily explore on your wedding day
Please let me know if you have a favourite place that you think should be added.
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City Centre Map
1. St. Giles Cathedral
2. Edinburgh City Chambers
3. The Royal Mile
4. The Edinburgh Festival
5. Writer’s Museum
6. Riddles Court
7. John Knox’s House
8. Edinburgh Castle
9. Victoria Street
10. The Vennel
11. The Mound
12. Prince’s Street Gardens
13. Carlton Hill
14. Holyrood Park
15. St. Anthony’s Chapel
Useful Links
Let’s start at the heart…
St. Giles Cathedral
St. Giles is literally in the heart of Edinburgh, the Heart of Midlothian is a mosaic on the ground outside St. Giles. Although this sounds like a romantic place to stand, beware, it is thought to be good luck to spit on it (apologies for spoiling the romance with a rather yucky start to this guide).
Let’s skip past that part… St. Giles is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings with it’s crown top a prominent part of Edinburgh’s skyline. I love exploring the pretty steps & doorways and I use it as a screen to take you away from the Royal Mile crowds into some of the quieter spaces behind.
2. Edinburgh City Chambers
Edinburgh’s City Chambers is a fantastically placed Registry Office, placed right outside St. Giles the chambers building is beautiful with its courtyard and sheltered arches (which have sheltered many weddings from Scotland’s weather over the years).
3. The Royal Mile
Talking about weather, around the city centre there are plenty more sheltered spots to explore around the royal mile, if the weather isn’t optimal. I have photographed in rain and fog around the city and it often just adds to the beauty.
When it rains the sandstone on the buildings darkens and the cobbled streets glisten and colours pop.
In the fog, everything looks old world-y and the diffuse light is beautifully flattering for portraits.
The Royal Mile links Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace and has the majority of the best photo spots in Edinburgh, especially as there are many popular wedding venues on the mile or within walking distance.
St. Giles and the Chambers are on the high street part of the mile which is the most photographed part but boogle down some of the Close’s and you’ll find hidden gem’s such as Advocate’s Close with it’s brilliant views of the Scott’s Monument or Riddles Court’s with is beautiful courtyard.
4. The Edinburgh Festival
In the festival Edinburgh fills up and the Royal Mile is packed with crowds, buskers & entertainers. The atmosphere is electric. Walking down the Royal Mile in a wedding dress will always get cheers of friendly congratulations but in the festival, you will be hidden amongst the many crazy outfits of the performers vying for your attention.
Jemma and Alasdair got married during the busiest week of the festival and loved getting amongst the crowds for their photos.
5. The Writer’s Museum
Continuing up the Royal Mile from the High Street you reach the Lawnmarket which leads up the final stretch to the castle.
Just off the Lawnmarket you find Lady Stair’s House. The 17th century Lady Stair’s House is home to the writer’s museum, I love exploring the peaceful courtyard and the cute lamposts.
6. Riddles Court
Riddles Court is one of my favourite Edinburgh buildings. I love the orange façade & pentice stair. I can imagine the king holding his banquet’s there in the 16th century. It’s tucked away off the lawn market. It’s so hidden, few tourist’s find it so it’s the perfect place for some quiet photos with some stunning unique architecture.
7. John Knox’s House
Further down the High Street, just before you enter the Cannongate part of the Royal Mile you get to John Knox’s House. Parts of the building date back to the 15th century building and it now houses the Scottish Storytelling Centre.
It’s a little off route and on a busy part of road on the Royal Mile but it is one the oldest buildings in Edinburgh and very picturesque.
8. Edinburgh Castle
The temptation is to go the castle for wedding photos but unfortunately if you have a wedding dress on, they won’t let you onto the castle esplanade (unless you are getting married there) but really the best spots are a wee walk away, venture to the Vennel or the Ross Fountain for the perfect castle pic.
9. Victoria Street
Victoria Street is famous as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. This cute little street has some brilliant little shops and links the Royal Mile to the historic Grassmarket where you can get a brilliant view of Edinburgh Castle.
10. The Vennel
Just off the Grassmarket you can climb up the Vennel Steps and get one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle. If you’re really lucky you might get a congratulations from the author Ian Rankin who was passing by during Maria & Rhys’s wedding, we’re waiting to see if they appear as characters in a Rebus novel.
11. The Mound
If you walk down from the Lawnmarket you will get to the Mound and enter into Edinburgh’s New Town.
The architecture completely changes as you enter the straight streets and Georgian architecture of the New Town and see the statement pillars of the galleries.
You’ll be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of shoppers on Princes’ Street. From here you can also explore Prince’s Street gardens and get some great views of Edinburgh Castle.
12. Prince’s Street Gardens & Ross’s Fountain
Prince’s Street gardens run along the whole length of Prince’s Street and have some amazing views of the city & the castle. At the east end of the garden’s, you’ll find the Ross Fountain area which is a great place for a pic with Edinburgh Castle.
13. Calton Hill
Calton Hill is the best place in Edinburgh to get panoramic views across the city or to enjoy sunrise or sunset. It’s a bit further away from the Old Town so you will need transport to get to there. If you chose to walk, it’s about a 15 minute walk (with a some steep hills) from the High Street on the Royal Mile.
You can see from the River Forth to Arthur’s Seat to Edinburgh Castle. It’s an amazing place to go when the sun is low but it is a good hike to get up to it. Olivia and Tom got a car up the hill and enjoyed the golden evening light at the top of the hill.
14. Holyrood Park
At the bottom of the Royal Mile you’ll find Holyrood Palace which is the King’s home when he visits Edinburgh.
The palace is next to Holyrood Park, if you want a real adventure with an amazing view you can walk up Arthurs Seat and get some photographs at St. Anthony’s Chapel
15. St. Anthony’s Chapel
St. Anthony’s Chapel is a ruined chapel on the hillside with stunning views over the city.
It takes about 20mins to get up to it and it is rough ground so you need good footwear but it is stunning.
Shauna and Frazer went here to exchange their vows after their wedding in the City Chambers.
Taxi Adventure
Edinburgh is compact but if you have high heels on a vehicle to get your around is a plan.
You can hire an Edinburgh cab to take you around some of the sights. It’s also a cute vehicle to have in your photos.
Red Bus Tours
If you want your guest’s to enjoy the city while you have a more intimate adventure you can hire a Red Bus to take your guests around the city. Companies such as the Red Bus Bistro will do a tour with afternoon tea for your guests.
Are you planning an Edinburgh wedding?
If you’d like to chat about your plans, check availability or pricing, please get in touch :-)
Useful Links
Discover more Scotland guides, wedding venue inspiration and real weddings from Edinburgh wedding photographer Ali Jay.
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