Start at the corner of Princes Street and Lothian Road and proceed along the latter for a short distance. Take the gate on the left into St Cuthbert's churchyard and wander through this secluded strip right in the heart of the capital city. Emerge into Princes Street Gardens and stroll past the impressive (and functioning) Ross Fountain. Take the high path through the gardens which unlocks views of the National Gallery nestled below Castle Rock. After crossing The Mound at the traffic lights, enter the eastern portion of the gardens which have the imposing Scott Monument as a highlight. From the exit gate, turn left down Waverley Bridge then pick up Cockburn Street at the roundabout.
Wind your way up to the Royal Mile and cross Hunter Square to join the main road on South Bridge. Turn right into Chambers Street after 200 yards and pass the National Museum of Scotland. Admission is free and it's worth going in for the grand Victorian entrance hall alone. Take a left on to Greyfriars Place and Forrest Road. Cross over and enter Middle Meadow Walk - a narrow channel leading to the green expanse of the Meadows where many people gather on a warm day. Hang right and bear towards the far corner. You might spot the monument (pictured above) that commemorates the massive International Exhibition of Science and Art that was held here in 1886. Walk along Brougham Place towards the Tollcross junction and follow the wide thoroughfare which becomes Lothian Road. You will soon arrive back at the starting point.
