Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour

The Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour offers a lively mix of history, humor, and ghostly tales for $22 per person. Lasting around 1.5 hours, this tour takes place in Edinburgh’s atmospheric Old Town, starting at outside The Witchery by the Castle near Edinburgh Castle. The tour features Alexander Clapperton, a deceased cemetery director from the 1840s, who guides you through Edinburgh’s darker stories with wit and theatrical flair.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of light-hearted storytelling and spine-tingling history, making it appealing for families and solo travelers alike. While it offers plenty of laughs, be prepared for some mild frights and gory details, which add an authentic edge to the experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, though it requires some stairs in August; it’s best suited for those comfortable walking on cobblestone streets.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $22 per person for a lively 1.5-hour experience
• Led by Alexander Clapperton, a deceased cemetery director with humor and knowledge
• Starts outside The Witchery near Edinburgh Castle and ends at Lawnmarket
• Family-friendly fun, mixing comedy, history, and ghost stories
• Includes a free ‘Jumper-ooters’ guidebook with extra stories and details
• Tours operate rain or shine and require appropriate footwear and walking on cobblestones

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point at The Witchery and Flexible Starting Locations

The tour begins outside The Witchery by the Castle, a renowned restaurant positioned near Edinburgh Castle on Castlehill. This central location makes it easy for travelers to join after visiting the castle or other nearby attractions. During July and August, due to the Military Tattoo and music concerts, the meeting point shifts to 84 West Bow on Victoria Street.

In spite of the location changes, the tour maintains a consistent end point at Lawnmarket, allowing guests to continue exploring Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile afterward. The meeting points are well-marked, and the tour staff provide clear instructions regarding location updates during busy summer weeks.

The Unique Character of Alexander Clapperton as Your Guide

Alexander Clapperton is the lively, humorous narrator of this tour. Although deceased, he “guides” visitors through Edinburgh’s dark history with a combination of comedic storytelling and historical insights. His personality shines through in his light-hearted approach to tales of witchcraft, executions, invasions, and plagues.

Guests consistently praise his entertaining style, noting that he keeps the mood fun and engaging even when recounting gory details. His knowledge of Edinburgh’s history is evident, but it’s his ability to entertain with humor that leaves a lasting impression, making the tour both educational and amusing.

Discovering Edinburgh’s Ghostly Side in the Old Town

This tour weaves through Edinburgh’s atmospheric closes and courtyards, areas known for their historic mysteries and eerie stories. As the guide leads you along cobbled streets, you’ll learn about witches, murderers, and historical punishments that took place centuries ago.

Stops include notable locations along the Royal Mile, where the stories come alive. The tour emphasizes Edinburgh’s darker past, balanced with funny anecdotes and quirky characters from the city’s history. Expect to hear tales of plagues, tortures, and invasions, all delivered with a light tone that keeps the mood lively.

From Gory Tales to Family-Friendly Humor

While some of the stories are gruesome, the overall tone is playful and humorous. The tour is often described as more about the dark side of history than pure ghost hunting, making it suitable for families and younger audiences. The guides are known for their funny delivery, which keeps even the spookiest stories entertaining.

Children and teenagers tend to enjoy the mix of history and humor, with many reviews highlighting how both young and old find the experience engaging. The free ‘Jumper-ooters’ guidebook adds a tangible souvenir, with detailed stories and extra background for those interested in Edinburgh’s mysterious past.

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Practical Details: Accessibility, Timing, and Dress Code

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but in August, it may require climbing some stairs, so visitors with mobility issues should plan accordingly. Guests are advised to arrive 5 minutes early to avoid missing the start.

The tour operates rain or shine, so appropriate footwear is a must due to cobblestone streets. Since the experience is active walking, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, and pets are not allowed, except for assistance dogs.

Price, Duration, and Booking Flexibility

At $22 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially given the enthusiastic reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and fun atmosphere. The duration of 1.5 hours makes it a manageable activity in a busy sightseeing day.

Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for travel plans. Plus, full refunds are available if cancellation occurs up to 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice in Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour combines history, humor, and a spooky vibe to create a memorable experience. Its affordable price, engaging guide, and family-friendly tone make it ideal for those seeking a fun, light-hearted exploration of Edinburgh’s darker stories.

Many reviews highlight that this tour is better than other ghost walks in the city, thanks to the blend of witty storytelling and historical accuracy. If you enjoy ghost stories with a comedic twist and want to see Edinburgh from a slightly different perspective, this tour is a top pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is considered family-friendly, especially since it mixes humor with interesting stories about Edinburgh’s dark history. Children tend to enjoy the quirky characters and amusing anecdotes.

What should I wear?
Guests should wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on cobblestones. The tour takes place rain or shine, so appropriate rain gear or umbrellas are advisable.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The tour is wheelchair accessible but in August, may involve some stairs. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance and plan accordingly.

Where does the tour start and end?
The starting point is outside The Witchery restaurant on Castlehill near Edinburgh Castle. The end point is at Lawnmarket, allowing convenient exploration of the Royal Mile afterward.

Are there any age restrictions?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, but children with accompanying adults generally find the tour enjoyable. The stories and humor appeal to a wide age range.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled tour. You can reserve your spot now and pay later for added flexibility.

This Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour offers a fun, affordable way to explore the city’s darker side, with guides who know how to entertain. Whether you’re a history buff, a family, or a group of friends looking for a lively evening, it promises a memorable mix of laughter, spooky stories, and a touch of Edinburgh’s eerie charm.

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