Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh worth booking?
Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh is a 3-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $40 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (6)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $40 per person
Wildlife and history tour. Join me on an urban walk from the popular West End in the Heart of Edinburgh to the beautiful villages along the Water of Leith. Learn about the Water of Leith history which was the 'lifeblood'
What you get
- Bottled water
- Information Sheets and Guidebooks
- Binoculars
- Rain Poncho (if needed)
About this experience
Wildlife and history tour. Join me on an urban walk from the popular West End in the Heart of Edinburgh to the beautiful villages along the Water of Leith. Learn about the Water of Leith history which was the 'lifeblood' of the Capital back in the day. Meander with me along the banks of the 'Leith' and just relax whilst looking for amazing wildlife such as Kingfisher, Dipper, Grey Heron, Deer, Otter and so much more. Binoculars, guide books and identification sheets available during the trip. A free 'wee dram' available on route for those that want to sample Scotch Whisky. We will have time to stop at the Water of Leith Visitor Centre. At journeys end in either Colinton, Juniper Green or Balerno why not explore the village and pop into a Hotel, Inn or Restaurant for a meal before heading back into town on Lothian Buses. Bus fare(s) included.
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Information Sheets and Guidebooks
- Binoculars
- Rain Poncho (if needed)
What you'll see and do
Spend plenty of time looking at the Mural depicting Scotland's rich history, industrial, social, artistic and literary movements.
10 minutes here
Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium Tours
Look over to the outside of the stadium as we walk along the Water of Leith
Pass by without stopping
Dean Village
At the start of the walk soak up the atmosphere of the beautiful Dean Village
10 minutes here
Take time to relax and learn about the rich heritage of the Water of Leith at the visitor centre.
45 minutes here
Union Canal
Walk along the towpath of the Union Canal connecting Edinburgh with Glasgow. Discover the importance of the Canal over the centuries.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Meet at the Gladstone Statute in Coates Gardens (West End Tram Station). I will have binoculars with me.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The shorter walk (approx 5 1/2 miles) ends in the popular village of Colinton. Pop into a traditional pub for a drink or go all out for a meal in a restaurant before making your own way back into Edinburgh by bus (Lothian Bus 16) at your leisure. Regular Bus service every 15 minutes.
Ends at
The shorter walk (approx 7 miles) ends in the popular Juniper Green. Pop into the Kinleith Inn for a meal then bus (Lothian Bus 44) back into Edinburgh at your leisure. Regular Bus service every 10 minutes.
Ends at
The longer walk (approx 9 miles) ends in Balerno. Pop into the Balerno Inn for a meal then bus (Lothian Bus 44) back into Edinburgh at your leisure. Regular bus service every 10 minutes.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Tue, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- A Walk on the Wild Side
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
6 verified traveler reviews for Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
it was brilliant experience to see wild birds in edinburgh
we walked a lot from the princes street along the river side. we can't believe we can see wild birds like that in the city! what were very beautiful they were! I couldn't capture it with my smartphone camera . his knowledge was amazing. Because we are foreigner his guide was very interesting. what was disappointing was that I couldn't see the otter.I hope I can see it someday !
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your review. I glad we saw lots of birds in the Capital. Thanks again Julian
via Tripadvisor
Great day out
Our tour guide Julian was very helpful and friendly. We spotted lots of wildlife on our walk starting at Dean Village and going as far as the canal which goes over the main road at Slateford. We saw all sorts of wildlife which Julian was keen to point out. Although the weather was a bit wet we enjoyed our walk which took in a Rose Garden in Saughton Park and we met lots of friendly people going along the paths as well. A thoroughly nice afternoon with a very knowledgeable guide who made the tour a pleasure. Alan and Janice
Response from the operator: Thanks Alan and Janice I'm glad you enjoyed the tour despite the weather. Plenty of wildlife and the 'wee dram of whisky' just finished the tour off nicely. Thanks for your review. Julian
via Tripadvisor
Highlight of our trip!
We had a fantastic time on this tour and are so happy that it caught our eye on Viator. Julian was an amazing guide, and he did a really good job of taking the walk at our pace with frequent stops for bird spotting. The walk was mostly flat, which made it easy to traverse. Julian was so knowledgeable about nature and the history of Edinburgh and the surrounding areas we explored. This experience was an amazing view into many varied areas we would never have explored otherwise. He provided high-quality binoculars and even different whiskies for a tasting which really elevated the experience. We were able to identify 21 different types of bird that we saw along our journey! He definitely inspired us to become bird watchers at home, and we ordered our own local guide book and binoculars as soon as we returned! Julian was extremely easy to communicate with, you can definitely let him know ahead of time how long you have to spend on this adventure or even decide during the trip. He provided multiple options for good places to stop when you were ready, and even provided coins for the local bus fare. We spent 5 hours with him! We highly recommend this rare gem of an experience for anyone who loves nature, history, walking, and is open to loving birds!
Response from the operator: Hi Shana, Thanks for a lovely review I'm glad you both enjoyed. It made my day also. I hope you are enjoying 'birding' now back home.
via Viator
Colinton to Dean Village
A delightful walk from Colinton to Dean Village, tracing the banks of the Water of Leith. The Colinton Tunnel was a riot of colourful murals while along the way we saw a striking sculpture by Anthony Gormley, the iconic Murrayfield Stadium and the engineering feat of the Union Canal. Julian was a very informative guide with genuine enthusiasm for the local wildlife, rich history and geography of the area. Dean Village had quiet charm and was a fitting end to the walk. Before we knew it, we were back in the lively bustle of a late December’s day in Edinburgh. Thanks Julian, a cracking walk!
Response from the operator: I am so glad you enjoyed the walk and plenty of wildlife seen along the way.
via Tripadvisor
Peaceful wee experience from the hustle and bustle of the capital to the country side.
Started at West End informative information about of the life of those who occupied these Beautiful houses. Heading to the river we able to get away from the busyness of Edinburgh to enjoy peaceful flow of the river and to see wildlife found in the area like dippers, bullfinch and yellow wagtail. Would definitely recommend and enjoyed the enthusiasm of Julian our guide. Thank you.
Response from the operator: Glad you enjoyed the stroll along the Water of Leith
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- 10+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Tue, Sat
- Price range
- $40 to $55
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh cost?
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Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 10. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 3-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Walking Wildlife History Tour in Edinburgh start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands, Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William, Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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