Edinburgh: Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: The tour costs only $22 per person and lasts 1.5 hours.
• Small group experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert guide: A knowledgeable and humorous guide leads you through the cemetery.
• Rich with stories: Hear about both famous and lesser-known individuals buried there, including historical figures and intriguing characters.
• Highlights include: 17th-century tombs, meanings behind tomb imagery, and graves linked to pop culture and history.
• Weather: The tour proceeds rain or shine, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

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Discover Edinburgh’s Most Famous Cemetery

The Edinburgh Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour, offered by The Cadies & Witchery Tours, provides an engaging 1.5-hour guided walk through Greyfriars Kirkyard, one of the city’s most renowned historic graveyards. Priced at $22 per person, this tour attracts a consistent high rating of 5 out of 5 from 100 reviews. The tour departs from a charming shop at 84 West Bow, Victoria Street, and is designed for small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.

This tour is perfect for those interested in history, architecture, and stories behind the tombstones. It combines rich storytelling with fascinating details about the cemetery’s centuries of use. The tour’s moderate 1.5-hour duration makes it manageable even for visitors with tight schedules, while the small group size fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements

The tour begins at 84 West Bow, a cozy shop on Victoria Street, where guests are advised to arrive 5 minutes early. Upon arriving, you check in with the local guide, who kicks off the exploration by entering the cemetery grounds. The activity always ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple and straightforward.

Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves walking on uneven terrain within the graveyard. As the tour proceeds rain or shine, an umbrella or raincoat may be helpful on some days. The meeting point is easy to find, and the walk from central Edinburgh adds to the experience.

What Makes the Graffairs Kirkyard Tour Special

The guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making what could be a somber walk into a lively storytelling session. Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ ability to share fascinating anecdotes about the individuals buried there, including a lecturer who taught Charles Darwin, and a WWI ace pilot.

The tour also touches on the visual meanings behind tomb imagery from the 17th century, giving insight into the historical significance and symbolism of the graves. Visitors see graves linked, in passing, to a boy wizard and a loyal dog, adding extra layers of intrigue and fun for fans of pop culture or pet lovers.

Notable Graves and Stories

Among the many graves visited, you’ll find lesser-known yet captivating characters. The guide shares stories about a theatrical actor buried in full costume, and the historical significance of the cemetery, which has been used for centuries. The inclusion of new information, sourced weekly from a resident genealogist, keeps the tour fresh and dynamic, even for returning visitors.

The tombs’ unique imagery and inscriptions reveal stories from Edinburgh’s past, giving you a vivid picture of the city’s history and its people. The tour also casually mentions graves with potential links to Harry Potter’s inspiration, adding a playful aspect to the experience.

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The Personality of the Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides’ engaging storytelling style, noting their knack for humor, knowledge, and making the tour fun. Robin, the most mentioned guide, is described as funny, witty, and passionate about history, ensuring that the journey is as entertaining as it is informative. His cousin David also shares his expertise, contributing to a lively and friendly atmosphere.

The guides are attentive to guest interests, offering extra insights and personalized stories about specific graves or themes, which enhances the overall experience.

Practical Considerations and Accessibility

Since unaccompanied minors and wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour, it is best suited for adults and older teenagers who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain. As the activity takes place rain or shine, guests should dress appropriately with comfortable shoes. Food and drinks are not permitted, and recording videos is not allowed, maintaining a respectful environment.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for last-minute schedule changes. Booking is pay later, allowing travelers to reserve in advance while keeping plans flexible.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this Greyfriars Kirkyard tour apart is its small group size combined with expert narration. Unlike larger, more impersonal tours, this experience offers personalized attention and the chance to ask questions freely. The high praise from previous participants emphasizes the guides’ ability to deliver fascinating stories with humor and insight.

The price point of $22 makes it a very cost-effective way to deepen your understanding of Edinburgh’s history. The informative and lively approach makes it equally appealing to history buffs, Harry Potter fans, and those curious about Edinburgh’s past.

Final Thoughts on the Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour

The Edinburgh Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour offers a short, engaging, and affordable exploration of one of the city’s most storied sites. The combination of expert guides, fascinating tombs, and a small-group environment creates an experience that balances education with entertainment.

While it may not be suitable for very young children or wheelchair users, adults and older teens will find plenty to enjoy. The tour’s rich storytelling and unique graves make it a highlight for visitors interested in Edinburgh’s history, culture, and supernatural lore.

This tour is highly recommended for those looking for a personalized, fun, and informative walk through Greyfriars Kirkyard that balances history, mystery, and humor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, children under 12 are not suitable for this tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at 84 West Bow, Victoria Street in Edinburgh.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, comfortable shoes are recommended for walking within the cemetery.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes entry to Greyfriars Kirkyard and a guided tour.

How many people typically participate?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, personal experience.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely, guides are praised for their depth of knowledge and humorous delivery.

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