Testimonials
We discovered an ad for this tour at the Conan Doyle Pub and decided to add it to our schedule last minute- and are so glad we did! We learned so much about the life of Doyle- who he was besides just an author, what inspired him, and what influenced the character of Sherlock Holmes. Toby definitely knows his information and has many interesting theories that got us thinking. Not just for die-hard Sherlock fans, in this two-and-a-half hour tour we also got to see much of the city of Edinburgh and learn about its’ history. We finished at the Sherlock Holmes statue (which we probably never would have found on our own), and Toby even personally walked us to a great local spot he recommended for lunch. Definitely recommended for people of all ages, you won’t find a better value anywhere!
We happened to run into this tour as we were walking around the city. It was incredibly enjoyable, and I learned so much about the inspiration for Sherlock Holmes, as well as his connections to Edinburgh. Recommended for anybody who is interested in Holmes, Sir Conan Doyle, or the history of the city. The host was engaging and funny, and they’re was even an acting part (see picture).
I was convinced to attend this tour because my husband is a huge Sherlock fan. I can’t say that I was looking forward to it as the only time available was 7:30-9:30 in the evening and it was 0 degrees and windy. Much to my delight, Toby’s storytelling made me forget about the temperature and provided a wonderful history of the city with Sherlock woven throughout. Toby’s passion for Sherlock is infectious and when the tour was over, I was left wanting more. Highly recommend!
What a great tour. We met Sherlock outside the Cigar Box shop in the Royal Mile, you can’t miss the deerstalker. Then we were taken on a two hour tour through the life of Arthur Conan Doyle and how his early life in Edinburgh shaped the detective we all know and love. It’s not all about Sherlock as you will be given some history about the city in the 1800’s but his authors life runs throughout the narrative of the tour. Sherlock is very knowledgeable so he can answer most questions. He also has an inquisitive mind so he will be interested in your own observations.
There are lots of tours in Edinburgh and the Royal Mile, many expensive, sometimes repetitive and often not great value. This one is different and it really ticks all the boxes. It’s only been going a short while but it’s sure to be successful. Well worth it and you get great photos with Sherlock
Extremely knowledgeable and entertaining guide, very passionate regarding history and British literature overall. Makes you feel very connected to the city and its history. A not-miss tour, especially for avid readers (and physicians too!). Hail and rain just made the tour more enjoyable and immersive.
Step back in time with Mr Toby as he helps you understand the life and times of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and find out more about who he modeled his most famous character on. (See Picture)
Went on this walking tour when I recently visited Edinburgh. I am a Sherlock Holmes fan so I was interested to hear the history of how the character was created – and I wasn’t disappointed! The guide was truly excellent and was even wearing an Inverness cape and deerstalker!! The tour finished at the Sherlock Holmes statue which I would have had some difficulty in finding by myself. There are also a few unknown facts about the statue that I was delighted to discover. After the tour I went into the Conan Doyle pub and had a meal surrounded by Sherlock memorabilia! If you are a Sherlock fan or interested in Edinburgh’s history I would definitely recommend this tour.