An iconic Scottish tourist spot has been slammed as "extremely crowded" and "dirty" in negative online reviews from visitors.
The Royal Mile is Edinburgh's most famous collection of streets, and is a top destination for tourists due to its history and architecture. It runs the length of the city's Old Town, from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.
However, some recent visitors to the Royal Mile have been left unhappy by their experience and have posted negative reviews online. Posting on travel website Tripadvisor, reviewers blasted the area for being "terribly touristy" and "overpriced".
In a two-star review, one visitor wrote: "Except for the castle, the Royal Mile was mostly shops and restaurants offering the same overpriced souvenirs and food. It was crowded and dirty.
"Edinburgh was much better outside of this area. Would not recommend devoting much time there."
Similarly, a second two-star review reads: "Royal Mile is terribly touristy. Even out of season it is difficult to navigate the street — with increasing intensity the closer you get to the castle.
"The shops there are pretty much all for tourists and the restaurants are questionable. However since several attractions is located at or very near the street, it is also difficult to avoid it."
Meanwhile, in a three-star review, another visitor stated: "The Royal Mile was extremely popular. As a result, it was extremely crowded, and very touristic.
"Selling merchandise was the main focus."
However, with an average rating of 4.5 out of five on Tripadvisor, most people who visit the Royal Mile are satisfied with their experience.
In a recent five-star review, one Tripadvisor user wrote: "Historic buildings. Plenty of pubs. What more does a tourist need?
"It is always busy so as long as you don’t mind that, it really is a great place to go."
A second agreed: "A fascinating stroll between the two castles. Lots of shopping and cafes as well as landmarks in between."
Meanwhile, a third five-star review states: "If you're in central Scotland you have to do the Royal Mile. Fabulous architecture with the narrow lanes leading off from time to time.
"Full of character and characters, from Bagpipe Buskers to Story Tellers."
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