The Dark Side of Edinburgh

Discover Edinburgh’s Dark Secrets for $27 in Just 2 Hours

The Dark Side of Edinburgh offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s grisliest stories, all in a 2-hour guided walk through its most haunted and infamous locations. Priced at $27 per person, this tour is designed for those who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing experience and learn about Edinburgh’s twisted past, including its murders, witches, and body snatchers.

Starting in the lively Grassmarket, the tour takes you through Old Town landmarks such as Greyfriars Graveyard and the Royal Mile, where you’ll hear true gruesome tales delivered by talented guides. The small group size—limited to 10 participants—ensures plenty of personalized attention and engaging storytelling. With high praise for the guides’ wit, knowledge, and flair, this tour promises a mix of dark history, humor, and spooky sites.

While the $27 price point makes it accessible, be prepared for rain or shine, as the tour proceeds regardless of weather, with suitable attire and comfortable shoes recommended. This experience is not suitable for children under 7, but it appeals to adults and older kids eager to uncover Edinburgh’s hidden, bloodstained past.

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Key Points

• Price of $27 per person for a 2-hour dark history walk.
• Runs through Old Town, Greyfriars Graveyard, and Royal Mile.
• Guided by highly trained local storytellers with a reputation for wit and accuracy.
• Small groups of up to 10 participants for an intimate experience.
• Includes entry to Greyfriars Kirkyard, known as one of the most haunted graveyards in the world.
• Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather.

Starting Point at the Lively Grassmarket Square

The tour begins at 4 Grassmarket, a bustling square packed with pubs and restaurants. Guides meet participants directly in front of the Cold Town House Pub, dressed in old-fashioned attire, holding a pink unicorn to make themselves easy to find. This lively setting offers a great chance to grab a bite before the walk, and the starting point’s central location provides easy access.

The Grassmarket itself is steeped in history, once a site of public executions and dark deeds, setting the tone for what’s to come. The guided walk quickly immerses participants in Edinburgh’s notorious past with stories that are both gruesome and humorous.

Walking Through Edinburgh’s Historic and Haunted Grassmarket

The first major stop is the Grassmarket square, where the guide highlights its carved curse on the cobblestones—an eerie marker linked to the city’s superstitions and punishments. Here, the guide connects the past bloodshed with local legends, making history come alive through vivid storytelling.

This area is rife with dark tales, including the infamous public hangings and witch trials that once took place there. The dry Scottish humor adds a light touch to the eerie atmosphere, keeping the mood engaging rather than overly somber. The guided 30-minute exploration provides a solid foundation of Edinburgh’s grim reputation.

Exploring Greyfriars Kirkyard: One of the World’s Most Haunted Cemeteries

Next, the tour moves to Greyfriars Kirkyard, famous for its haunted reputation and dark history. The 30-minute visit offers full access to this spooky graveyard, where tales of ghosts and restless spirits abound.

This graveyard has a reputation for being one of the most haunted in the world, and the guide shares stories of mysterious sightings, cursed tombs, and sadistic characters from Edinburgh’s past. Visitors are encouraged to take photos and soak in the atmosphere, but the stories of body snatchers and murderers bring a chill.

The special access and guided narration make this stop a highlight, especially for those captivated by supernatural legends. The dark, atmospheric setting is ideal for fans of ghost stories and history buffs alike.

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Walking the Historic Royal Mile with a Dark Twist

The Royal Mile, a famous street connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, becomes a dark history trail during this tour. The guide walks you through its cobblestone lanes, revealing stories of bloodshed, crime, and punishment.

This 30-minute segment includes sights like the St Giles’ Cathedral, the Tron Kirk, and the Old Tollbooth Prison. Each site holds a dark story, from medieval executions to sadistic punishments. The guide’s storytelling makes these sites come alive, blending historical facts with local legends.

Passing by these landmarks offers photo opportunities and a chance to understand the grim side of Edinburgh’s past. The guide’s engaging narration helps keep the group immersed in the macabre history of this vibrant street.

St. Giles Cathedral and the Old Town’s Dark Legacies

The tour pauses at St Giles’ Cathedral for about 15 minutes, offering a photo stop and a brief overview of its dark history. The building’s architectural grandeur contrasts with the grisly stories of medieval executions and witch hunts associated with the site.

Walking past the Old Tollbooth Prison, the guide shares tales of sadistic punishments and prisoners’ stories. The walk through Edinburgh Old Town lasts approximately 15 minutes, taking in the narrow closes and hidden alleyways that once hid criminal activity and dark deeds.

This segment emphasizes the twisted history woven into Edinburgh’s medieval streets, with stories that chill and entertain in equal measure.

Visit to Bloody Mackenzie’s Door and Other Morbid Sites

A unique feature of this tour is the opportunity to knock on Bloody Mackenzie’s door, if you dare. This haunted legend connects to the notorious executioner and adds an interactive element to the experience.

Throughout the walk, the guide points out hidden dark corners and places associated with notorious characters, giving participants a sense of connection to Edinburgh’s bloodstained past. The 15-minute exploration of Edinburgh’s darker corners deepens the sense of history’s grim reality.

The Guide’s Style: Witty, Knowledgeable, and Authentic

The guides, such as Madam McKinnon or William Burke, are almost 200 years dead but deliver stories with wit and authenticity. Their dry Scottish humor keeps the atmosphere lively while sharing factual, well-researched stories.

Their performance combines historical accuracy with entertaining storytelling, making the dark tales memorable. The guides are known for their knowledge of hidden gems and their ability to answer questions and recommend local spots, restaurants, and bars at the end of the tour.

Practical Details: Accessibility and Comfort

The tour takes place in rain or shine, so appropriate rain gear and umbrellas are advised. There are no stairs, but some stops involve walking over uneven terrain and slight hills, particularly in Greyfriars Graveyard. The small group size ensures plenty of space for questions and a personalized experience.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a mild bit of walking through narrow, historic streets. The duration of 2 hours is manageable for most, and the limited group size enhances the overall experience.

Final Thoughts on the Dark Side of Edinburgh

The Dark Side of Edinburgh tour offers a compelling, well-led journey into the city’s most sinister stories. With high praise for the guides’ storytelling skills and the carefully curated stops, it appeals to history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those curious about Edinburgh’s darker reputation.

The small group setting, full access to haunted sites, and balance of dark humor and gruesome tales make it a standout experience. The price of $27 provides good value for an engaging, educational walk into the city’s shadowy corners.

This tour is ideal for adults seeking a memorable, spine-tingling adventure. It’s a darkly entertaining way to discover Edinburgh beyond the surface, with stories that will stick long after the walk ends. Just be sure to dress for the weather and bring your curiosity and sense of humor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 7 years old due to the dark and gruesome stories.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with rain gear or an umbrella, as the walk takes place rain or shine.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Grassmarket in front of the Cold Town House Pub and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, there are no stairs, but some walking involves uneven terrain and slight hills.

Can I ask questions during the tour?
Absolutely, the small group size allows for plenty of interaction and personalized recommendations.

What makes this tour different from other Edinburgh ghost walks?
This tour emphasizes historical accuracy, dry Scottish humor, and includes full access to Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since the tour is limited to 10 participants. You can reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby