Edinburgh Innovators and Inventions Walking Tour
Discover Scotland's Innovators on a Guided Walk Through Edinburgh's Historic Old Town and Underground

Edinburgh
people
1 participant
hour
- • Explore Scotland's Innovators in Edinburgh's Old Town
- • Join a 1 Hour Guided Tour of Edinburgh's Historical Highlights
- • See the World's Second Oldest Surviving Car Engine
Why We Love This Unique Experience
Discover the remarkable contributions Scotland has made to the world with the Scottish Innovations and Inventions Historical Walking Tour. This engaging journey through the cobbled streets of Edinburgh reveals fascinating stories of inventors and their groundbreaking creations that transformed everyday life. From the marvels of color photography to the foundational principles of television and beyond, this tour invites everyone to explore the birthplace of innovation.
As the adventure unfolds, participants will stroll through the historic Old Town, guided by an enthusiastic local expert who brings these stories to life. Listen to captivating tales that showcase Scotland's rich heritage of innovation, featuring pioneers who changed the course of technology and everyday living. The tour also takes a detour into an intriguing underground space, where the impressive Crossley Otto Silent engine awaits. This remarkable artifact stands as one of the world's eldest surviving examples and represents the brilliant innovation that led to the development of modern car engines.
This walking tour is not just a chance to learn about the past—it's an ideal gift for anyone curious about history, science, or simply seeking a unique experience. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or special celebration, sharing the joy of discovery through the Scottish Innovations and Inventions Historical Walking Tour makes for a thoughtful and memorable present that will inspire minds young and old!
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Experience Overview:
Scottish Innovations And Inventions Historical Walking TourDo you know just how much Scotland has brought to the world?
Colour Photography, the rings of Saturn, the electromagnetic spectrum - and this was all just from one person! From television to anaesthetics, bicycles to toasters, come join us on an exploration of Scotland's great innovators and inventors; we'll take you for a walk around the Old Town of Edinburgh to tell you all our favourite stories.
After stories from around the Old Town, we'll take you into our underground space to continue the adventure, and to show you the Crossley Otto Silent engine which was discovered during renovation work to the old police chambers in January 2025 - this is the second oldest surviving example in the world, and was the prototype for the car engine!
Meeting Point
John's Coffee House & Tavern
1a Parliament Sqr, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, UK
Behind the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile, John's Coffee House sits in the corner of Parliament Square - just head on inside and let the staff know you are there for the tour!
What's included:
- Local Guide
What to expect:
Duration: 1 hour
The Lost Close
1 Barrie's Close, The Lost Close, Edinburgh, EH1 1RF
Unique underground venue in the heart of the Old Town
30 minutes
Old Town
Edinburgh
The Old Town of Edinburgh - a rich collection of historical buildings
30 minutes
Details & Important Info
Additional Experience Details & Important Information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellations & Refunds
Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 3 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.
Organized by
The Lost Close - Events & Experiences
Product SKU: UK-10513-0007
Google Business Profile: The Lost Close
Edinburgh Innovators and Inventors Walking Tour
Edinburgh
people
1 participant
hour
- • Explore Scotland's Innovators in Edinburgh's Old Town
- • Join a 1 Hour Guided Tour of Edinburgh's Historical Highlights
- • See the World's Second Oldest Surviving Car Engine
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