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Article published 04/02/2025

The Edinburgh-based, award-winning tour company, Mercat Tours has created a year-long calendar of events to mark their 40th anniversary milestone.

It was launched by the latest cohort of the "A Day in Edinburgh" school initiative.

Launched in 2016 by Mercat Tours managing director, Kat Brogan, A Day in Edinburgh gives pupils the opportunity to explore the captial’s rich cultural heritage and learn about the career opportunities within its thriving tourism sector, by meeting industry professionals who share insights into their careers.

Mercat Tours, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura, Rabbie’s Small Group Tours, Dovecot Studios, and Holyrood Distillery are all involved.

In total more than 685 pupils and 120 staff have taken part since 2016, with a survey revealing that 95% of students leave the programme with a stronger connection to their city and a greater appreciation for its vibrant history and cultural offerings.

Minister for Business Richard Lochhead MSP joined 90 second-year pupils from Holy Rood High School last week.

Group of people standing behind a banner that reads "A story 40 years in the telling"

Mercat Tours team celebrating their 40th anniversary celebrations. 

As we celebrate 40 years of giving Edinburgh’s history ‘a damn good telling,’ it’s fitting to kick-off our anniversary year by investing in the future.

‘A Day in Edinburgh’ is more than an educational day out—it’s about igniting pride, ambition, and curiosity in young people while showcasing the vibrant, rewarding and diverse careers available in tourism. This initiative embodies what Mercat Tours stands for: connecting people to their past while inspiring their future.

Kat Brogan, Managing Director of Mercat Tours

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