The aim of this book is to provide a detailed, but manageable, guide to the infinite riches and secrets to be found in the astonishing extent of Edinburgh's historic way. It is designed as a walker's companion and a fireside one. While acknowledging the Mile's most celebrated landmarks, stories and legends, this book is 'alternative' in that it includes lesser-known, frequently eccentric, always fascinating information of the kind which is usually erased from the grimly serious, and sweetly poetic, literature of this most written about of streets.

Divided into chapters that can be explored in a day and written in the spirit of the 18th century caddies (messenger-boys - who knew everybody's business) this is a fun way to learn about the Royal Mile.