City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s Haunted Heart with the City of the Dead Tour

The City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour offers a compelling look into Edinburgh’s ghostly past for just $27.54 per person. Lasting approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, this guided walk takes small groups of no more than five through the historic alleyways and closes of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Starting outside the St Giles Cathedral on the Royal Mile, the tour culminates inside the locked section of Greyfriars Kirkyard, known as Covenanter’s Prison, where stories of the Mackenzie Poltergeist are sure to send shivers down your spine.

This tour is favored for its personalized experience—small group size allows for engaging storytelling by local guides who combine elements of history, humour, and horror. The evening timing means you can enjoy this spooky adventure without sacrificing daytime sightseeing. While adults and kids over 12 are welcome, the tour emphasizes storytelling rather than pure scare tactics, making it a memorable experience for those interested in Edinburgh’s haunted lore.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Just over $27.50 for a 1 hour 20-minute guided tour.
• Small Group: Limited to five participants for a more intimate, personalized experience.
• Starting Point: Leaves from outside St Giles’ Cathedral on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
• Main Attraction: Inside Greyfriars Kirkyard, including the Covenantor’s Prison.
• Guide Expertise: Led by knowledgeable local guides with dynamic storytelling styles.
• Highly Rated: Maintains a 4.5/5 rating from 202 reviews, with 94% recommending the tour.

Meeting Point and Accessibility for Visitors

The tour begins at the “Tree of the Dead”, located outside St Giles’ Cathedral at High Street in Edinburgh. The starting location is near public transportation, making it easy to access for most visitors. The tour ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site easily reachable after the walk. Since transportation to and from attractions is not included, guests should plan their own travel to the starting point.

The Guide’s Role in Bringing Edinburgh’s Haunted Sites Alive

Every guide brings a unique style to the storytelling, blending history, humour, and spooky tales. Feedback highlights guides like Gerry, Ross, and Grant as particularly enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and engaging. Their ability to connect with small groups ensures everyone remains captivated, even on colder, windier nights, as noted in some reviews.

Greyfriars Kirkyard: The Heart of the Spooky Experience

The tour’s centerpiece is Greyfriars Kirkyard, famous for its haunted reputation. The guide shares stories about the Mackenzie Poltergeist and other local legends, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The locked section of the cemetery, known as Covenantor’s Prison, is a highlight, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh’s darker past, possibly including the world’s first concentration camp.

The Legend of Covenantor’s Prison

Inside this 16th-century walled cemetery section, the atmosphere intensifies as guides recount stories of ghostly activity and historical horror. The prison’s reputation as a haunted site is bolstered by its history as a concentration camp, making it a fittingly chilling end to the tour. Visitors can expect a blend of education and thrill, delivered in a way that balances respect for the site with entertainment.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small-group size ensures an intimate experience where questions can be asked, and stories are delivered with personal flair. The evening timing adds to the eerie ambiance without interfering with daytime sightseeing plans. The tour’s combination of haunted tales, historic sites, and lively storytelling makes it a strong option for those seeking a different perspective on Edinburgh’s history.

Practical Tips for Attendees

Guests should arrive promptly at the “Tree of the Dead” outside St Giles’ Cathedral. The tour is suitable for ages 12 and up, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Since the experience is weather-dependent, it’s wise to prepare for outdoor walking in Edinburgh’s typical cool, potentially rainy weather. The tour does not include transportation, so plan accordingly.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

This tour is easy to book, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are poor, the tour provider offers the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. The max group size of five makes it ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more personalized ghost tour experience.

Why Choose the City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour?

The combination of expert guides, engaging storytelling, and the historic setting of Greyfriars Kirkyard makes this tour a standout. It’s perfect for history buffs, ghost story lovers, and anyone looking to experience Edinburgh’s haunting atmosphere after dark.

While it’s not a high-adrenaline scare fest, the stories of spirits and ghostly legends provide a genuine thrill, especially with guides who bring passion and humor to the recounting. The small group size and personal touch set this tour apart from larger, more generic ghost walks.

Edinburgh’s Haunted Past in a Compact, Engaging Tour

This tour encapsulates Edinburgh’s reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the world. It offers an accessible, well-paced stroll through its dark history, with stories that linger long after the walk ends. The $27.54 price is reasonable considering the personalized experience and the quality of storytelling.

If you enjoy ghost stories rooted in history and want to explore Greyfriars Kirkyard beyond its tourist spots, this tour is a solid choice. It delivers the right balance of scare, lore, and local flavor in a compact, memorable outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside St Giles’ Cathedral on High Street in Edinburgh, at the “Tree of the Dead.”

What is included in the price?
The price covers a local, expert guide and the guided walk itself. It does not include transportation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for ages 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to no more than five participants for a more personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 48 days in advance and can be canceled free of charge if needed 24 hours ahead.

What makes this tour different from other ghost walks in Edinburgh?
Its small-group size, local guide expertise, and the culmination inside Covenantor’s Prison set it apart, offering a more intimate and authentic experience.

Is the tour conducted in the evening?
Yes, it is an evening tour, which enhances the haunting atmosphere without interfering with daytime sightseeing.

Can I visit Greyfriars Kirkyard on my own?
Yes, but the guided tour provides stories and context that bring the site to life, which is not available when exploring alone.

What should I wear?
Since it’s outdoors and in cooler weather, wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes to enjoy the walk comfortably.

What is the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

This Haunted Graveyard Tour offers a unique, engaging way to experience Edinburgh’s haunted sites with a personal touch and captivating storytelling. It’s a great choice for those wanting a spooky, historical adventure in the city’s dark hours.