Dark History and Ghost Tour of Edinburgh

Exploring Edinburgh’s dark past becomes truly chilling with the Dark History and Ghost Tour, offered by Eerie Earth Tours for just $22.04 per person. This 2-hour walking experience takes place in the evening, starting at St Giles’ Cathedral and ending inside Greyfriars Kirkyard, near the statue of Greyfriars Bobby. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 15 reviews, and is recommended by 100% of participants.

Led by a professional storyteller who is also a Paranormal Investigator, this tour promises spine-tingling tales of ghosts, murders, bodysnatching, and more. It’s ideal for those aged 12 and above who enjoy spooky stories and history with a darker twist. Keep in mind, group sizes are limited to 18 travelers, enhancing the intimate and immersive atmosphere.

While this tour has no included beverages or hotel pickups, it offers a compelling way to uncover Edinburgh’s shadowy history. The tour is well-structured, covering six key stops across the city’s historic Old Town, with each location revealing secrets that have haunted the city for centuries.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Affordable at $22.04, with a 2-hour walking schedule.
• Expert Guide: Led by a paranormal investigator and professional storyteller.
• Cultural and Haunted Landmarks: Visits include St Giles’ Cathedral, Mercat Cross, Advocate’s Close, Victoria Street, Grassmarket, and Greyfriars.
• Rich Stories: Tales of murder, bodysnatching, ghost hauntings, and public executions.
• Lasting Impression: The final stop at Greyfriars offers one of the most haunted cemeteries in Britain, known for violent poltergeist activity.

From St Giles’ Cathedral to the Heart of Edinburgh

The tour begins at St Giles’ Cathedral, a historic building in the Old Town that hosts stories about Edinburgh’s entertainment and the famous Heart of Midlothian. The guide introduces the city with engaging tales and brief access to this landmark, creating the perfect start for a spooky night. The free admission makes it easy to simply stroll in and join the tour.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Dark Past at Mercat Cross

Next, the journey takes visitors to Mercat Cross, where grim tales from the 17th century come to life. This stop reveals the darker side of Edinburgh’s history, including the grisly practices that once took place on the streets of this historic market. Expect stories about public punishments and murderous episodes, all set against the backdrop of this riddled with dark history site.

The Ghostly Legend of Advocate’s Close

A key highlight, Advocate’s Close, boasts one of Edinburgh’s most famous ghost stories. As you walk down this narrow alley, the guide recounts a haunting tale that still resonates in the city’s collective consciousness. This location is renowned for its supernatural activity, making it a perfect stop for fans of ghost stories.

Victoria Street and the Wizard’s Tale

The tour continues along Victoria Street, noted for inspiring Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Here, the guide shares a story about a famous wizard, but with a darker twist that departs from the magic of J.K. Rowling’s world. The vibrant street provides a visual contrast to the darker stories, but the focus remains on Edinburgh’s magical and mysterious history.

The 600-Year-Old Grassmarket and Its Dark Events

The Grassmarket area, dating back over 600 years, features prominently in Edinburgh’s dark stories. The guide discusses a riot, culminating in betrayal and murder, along with tales of Jesse King, the last woman executed publicly in Edinburgh, and Maggie Dickson, who survived her hanging. This stop lasts around 15 minutes, allowing ample time to absorb the history and enjoy the atmosphere.

The Haunted Grounds of Greyfriars Kirkyard

The final stop, Greyfriars Kirkyard, stands out as one of the most haunted cemeteries in Britain. The guide delves into tales of violent poltergeist hauntings, body snatching, and people buried alive. Visitors are introduced to one of the most notorious ghost stories associated with the city, making this ending both memorable and chilling.

The Experience Led by a Paranormal Expert

What sets this tour apart is the guide’s background as a paranormal investigator and podcast host. The storytelling style is described as immersive, compelling, and suspenseful, emphasizing grisly details like torture, executions, and supernatural phenomena. This expert-led approach offers a deeply engaging experience that balances history and supernatural suspense.

Practical Details and Meeting Point

The tour departs at 6:00 pm from St Giles’ Cathedral, located on High Street. It concludes inside Greyfriars Kirkyard, with the guide available afterwards for questions or recommendations. The tour’s mobile ticket system enhances ease of access, and the limited group size (up to 18 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.

Booking, Cancellation, and Availability

Advance booking is recommended, with the tour typically booked 20 days ahead. Free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers. The tour is suitable for most, with service animals allowed and accessibility near public transportation.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Fans of History and the Supernatural

This tour’s combination of detailed storytelling and visits to iconic haunted locations makes it ideal for those interested in Edinburgh’s ghost stories and historical dark secrets. The professional guide’s expertise and engaging narrative ensure a lively, spine-chilling experience.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for children under 12, given the grisly content. It involves walking over cobbled streets and winding alleys, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The no alcohol policy means no drinks are served during the tour, but visitors can enjoy local pubs before or after the experience.

The Final Word on Edinburgh’s Dark and Haunted Tour

This 2-hour journey into Edinburgh’s shadowy corners offers an engaging blend of history, ghost stories, and supernatural intrigue. Led by a knowledgeable investigator, the tour immerses visitors in dark tales that have haunted the city for centuries. Its affordable price and high ratings make it a compelling choice for anyone eager to explore Edinburgh’s haunted heritage.

Those who appreciate spooky stories, history with a dark twist, and expert storytelling will find this tour both educational and spine-chilling. It’s a well-paced, memorable exploration of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites, perfect for a spooky evening in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old due to the grisly and mature content.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers a 2-hour walking tour led by a professional paranormal investigator and storyteller. It also includes visits to six key historic and haunted sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at St Giles’ Cathedral on High Street and ends inside Greyfriars Kirkyard, near the Greyfriars Bobby statue.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from 10 to 25 minutes, allowing time to explore and absorb each location’s stories.

Is the tour accessible for public transportation?
Yes, the tour is near public transit options, making it easy to reach the starting point.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours before the start time.

Are drinks or food included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not provided on this tour.

What makes this tour stand out?
The expert guide’s paranormal background and the focus on haunted sites like Greyfriars and Victoria Street offer a deeply immersive experience for fans of ghost stories.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves walking over cobbled streets and narrow alleys but is manageable for most with basic mobility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear is recommended, especially since the tour is outdoors and involves walking on cobblestones.