Edinburgh Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault

Edinburgh Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault: An Engaging Journey into Scotland’s Witch History

For just $24.71 per person, this approximately 75-minute tour guides you through Edinburgh’s Old Town, revealing its mysterious and darker side. Led by professional storytellers, the tour explores less-visited streets, historic buildings, and sites connected to Scotland’s witch trials, with a special visit to the underground vault dating back to 1742.

This tour is highly appreciated, with an average rating of 5.0 from 497 reviews and 99% recommendation rate. It’s ideal for those interested in local legends, historical mysteries, and Edinburgh’s underground secrets. The tour’s small group size of up to 25 ensures a personal and engaging experience, and the bookings typically occur 20 days in advance, reflecting strong popularity.

Key Points

• Affordable price of just $24.71 includes a visit to a historic underground vault.
• Duration of about 75 minutes, with most stops packed with storytelling and historical insights.
• Features many lesser-known sites along the Royal Mile and Old Town, avoiding crowds.
• Expert guides bring stories of witches, warlocks, and magical deeds to life with engaging narration.
• Tour emphasizes local history with stops at iconic locations like St Giles’ Cathedral and Victoria Street.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Starting at Caffè Nero on Parliament Square

The tour departs from Caffè Nero at 1 Parliament Square, located at 192 High Street, making it easily accessible near public transportation. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour concludes at Barrie’s Close, within The Vault at The Lost Close. The underground vault is a recently discovered site cloaked in Edinburgh’s history since the Great Fire of 1824.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Witch Trials and Local Legends

This tour dives into Scotland’s history of witch hunts, sharing stories of accused witches, warlocks, and those believed to possess magical abilities. It highlights specific locations where witches once lived and performed magic, many of which are hidden in plain sight around the city.

The Stop at Witches Well introduces a local monument linked to Scotland’s witch history, while Victoria Street offers a glimpse into the life of one of Edinburgh’s most notorious characters, sharing their remarkable story along the cobbled street. The Lost Close provides an exclusive underground visit to ancient vaults, dating back over 270 years, revealing a mysterious side of Edinburgh’s past.

Detailed Stops: From St Giles’ Cathedral to Underground Vaults

St Giles’ Cathedral opens the tour, where the guide shares insight into notable figures like Mary Queen of Scots and John Knox. Visitors learn quirky facts, such as why it’s acceptable to spit on the floor in Parliament Square. The Royal Mile follows, where a brief stop features a story about the North Berwick Witches, setting a dark tone for the tour.

In a hidden courtyard at Lady Stairs House, the tour uncovers grisly stories and celebrates Scotland’s National Poet. The Castello Di Edimburgo stop explains how Edinburgh’s city formation relates to its witch history, and the Witches Well introduces an often-overlooked memorial dedicated to those accused of witchcraft.

Upper Bow offers a bird’s eye view of a famous street, with tales of a shocking Warlock. The walk continues along Victoria Street, where notorious characters’ lives are explored through their connection to the city’s colorful past. The final stop in the open is The Lost Close, a vaulted underground chamber dating back to 1742, which tells stories of Edinburgh’s fire and its aftermath.

The Underground Vault Experience

The highlight of the tour is the visit to The Lost Close. This underground site has mystery and history, with vaults that have remained cloaked in secrecy since 1824. During the 15-minute visit, visitors see original stonework and authentic relics from Edinburgh’s past, giving a tangible connection to those turbulent times. This exclusive access makes the tour stand out from other city walks.

The Storytelling Style and Guide Expertise

Guides like Juniper and Agatha earn praise for their engaging storytelling and deep knowledge. Review comments highlight their friendliness, ability to bring historic stories to life, and sensitivity when discussing the persecution of witches. Many mention how the guides incorporate humor and vivid descriptions, making the history both informative and entertaining.

The guides also point out hidden references to the witch hunts in Edinburgh’s architecture and street names, adding a layer of discovery for those who pay attention. The small group setting allows for personalized interactions, with plenty of opportunities for questions.

Physical Accessibility and Pacing

The tour involves some walking over cobbled streets and steep streets, with steps at certain stops. It is suited for visitors with moderate physical fitness who can navigate uneven surfaces. Due to the short duration, the pace is manageable, and the walk is not overly strenuous, making it suitable for most ages.

The Overall Experience and Suitability

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, legend, and underground exploration. It’s perfect for history buffs, fans of the macabre, or those interested in Edinburgh’s darker stories. The $24.71 price is considered excellent value for the depth of storytelling, the visit to the underground vault, and the opportunity to see less-visited areas of the Old Town.

Those seeking a more immersive or lengthy experience might find the 75-minute duration a bit brief, but most reviews agree this is a well-paced and highly engaging activity. It’s especially recommended for small groups looking for an intimate, story-rich walk that covers some of Edinburgh’s most captivating tales.

Final Thoughts on the Edinburgh Witches & Underground Vault Tour

This tour stands out for its expert guides, engaging stories, and unique underground visit. It excels at revealing Edinburgh’s secret histories and offers a personalized experience that avoids crowded tourist spots. The small group size and affordable price make it accessible and appealing.

While it involves some walking on cobbles, the overall pace remains comfortable. The visits to locations like St Giles’ Cathedral, Victoria Street, and the Witches Well provide a rich context for understanding the city’s witch trials and legends. The hidden underground vaults serve as a memorable highlight, adding a tangible dimension to the stories.

In summary, this highly-rated, dark history-focused tour suits those interested in local legends, hidden sites, and Edinburgh’s shadowy past. It’s a well-recommended choice for anyone wanting to explore the city’s mysterious side in a short, engaging format.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 75 minutes, making it a manageable activity for most visitors.

Where does the tour begin?
It starts at Caffè Nero, 1 Parliament Square, near the High Street.

Is the underground vault included?
Yes, the visit to The Lost Close underground vault is included in the 15-minute final stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking on cobbled streets and some steep areas, so it’s best for visitors with moderate physical fitness and who are comfortable navigating uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, guides like Juniper and Agatha receive high praise for their engaging storytelling and depth of knowledge.

What is the price?
The tour costs $24.71 per person, offering good value given the underground visit and the rich stories shared.

Is this tour recommended?
With a 5.0 rating from nearly 500 reviews and 99% recommending, it’s clearly a popular and highly-rated activity for those interested in Edinburgh’s dark history and legends.