Edinburgh: Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s haunting stories and underground vaults on this 1-hour ghost tour offered by City of Edinburgh Tours. Priced at $20 per person, this experience takes you beneath the historic South Bridge into some of the most haunted vaults in the world, all within the Old Town area. The guide, dressed in full period costume, vividly recounts tales of torture, death, and ghostly encounters, bringing Edinburgh’s dark history to life. While the tour is compact, the affordable price and engaging storytelling make it a popular choice for those curious about the city’s ghostly reputation and underground secrets.

This tour is most suited for visitors who enjoy spooky tales, historical intrigue, and atmospheric locations. It lasts around one hour, making it easy to fit into a broader sightseeing day. Be aware that children under 5 years or guests with mobility issues or wheelchair needs should consider other options, as this experience involves stairs and uneven underground terrain.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Just $20 per person for a 1-hour guided experience.
• Location: Starts at the Police Box / Kiosk on the Royal Mile, in front of StarBucks.
• Highlights: Explore Edinburgh’s underground vaults below South Bridge and discover the haunted stories associated with them.
• Guides: Led by costumed professional guides, many of whom are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skill.
• Reviews: Consistently rated 4.4 out of 5 from over 1,500 reviews, with high praise for guide charisma and atmospheric locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Edinburgh’s Dark Past Comes Alive in the Old Town

This ghost tour offers an exciting peek into Edinburgh’s dark history through stories told by guides dressed in period costume. The Old Town, with its narrow wynds and historic closes, provides a fitting backdrop for tales of death, torture, and supernatural sightings. The tour combines walking through the streets with an exploration of underground vaults, creating a dynamic experience that balances history and horror.

Exploring the Underground Vaults Below South Bridge

The underground vaults are a core feature of this tour. Located beneath South Bridge, these vaults are known worldwide for being haunted. Visitors get entrance included and hear stories of the ghosts believed to haunt the tunnels. The vaults are considered some of the most haunted locations in the city, with many reports of ghostly activity from visitors and guides alike.

Meeting Point and Tour Flow

The tour begins at a Police Box / Kiosk in front of Starbucks on the Royal Mile. It proceeds with a walk around historic landmarks in the Old Town, before descending into the underground vaults for a spine-tingling exploration. The end point is back at the same meeting location, making it convenient for participants to plan their day afterward.

The Guides and Their Storytelling Style

The guides are frequently praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and depth of knowledge. Many reviews highlight individual guides like James, Robbie Diggs, and Helen Duncan for their ability to blend facts with entertainment. Several reviews note that guides play their roles well, creating an immersive atmosphere. Some guides even go off-script, sharing extra stories or answering questions, which enhances the overall experience.

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Pacing, Group Size, and Atmosphere

With a duration of about one hour, the tour maintains a relaxed pace, allowing for engagement without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures that everyone can hear and participate comfortably. The atmosphere is described as eerily atmospheric, with locations that feel authentic and spooky. The underground vaults are especially noted for their chilling ambiance.

Practical Tips for Attendees

Participants should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and weather-appropriate clothing, as some parts of the tour are outdoors. Since the underground vaults involve stairs and uneven surfaces, the tour might not be suitable for mobility-impaired guests or those in wheelchairs. The tour runs in the early afternoon, but availability varies, so checking the schedule beforehand is recommended.

Value for Money and Booking Flexibility

At $20 per person, the tour offers great value, especially given the inclusion of entry to underground vaults and the quality of storytelling. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for travelers. You can reserve your spot without immediate payment, making it easy to adjust plans if needed.

Summary of the Experience

This Old Town and underground ghost tour provides a compact, engaging introduction to Edinburgh’s haunted history. The cost-effective price point combined with enthusiastic guides and historical intrigue makes it a popular activity. While it may not cover every underground area or explore extensive tunnels, the atmospheric locations and compelling stories deliver a memorable experience.

Most visitors who enjoy spooky stories, history, and haunted locations will find this tour well worth the time and money. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer short, lively walks with entertaining storytelling rather than long or physically demanding excursions.

Edinburgh: Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour

This tour from City of Edinburgh Tours stands out as affordable, atmospheric, and highly reviewed. The guides’ charisma and knowledge shine through the compact format, making it a highlight for many visitors. Its focus on Edinburgh’s underground vaults adds a spine-tingling element that complements the city’s historic streets.

For anyone interested in exploring Edinburgh’s haunted side without a lengthy commitment, this hour-long tour offers entertainment, education, and a touch of the supernatural. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a dark, atmospheric walk into Edinburgh’s most haunted underground locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not recommended, and the tour involves stairs and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for older children and adults.

What is included in the ticket price?
The guided tour and entrance to Edinburgh’s underground vaults are included in the $20 fee.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the Police Box / Kiosk on the Royal Mile, directly in front of Starbucks.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, with a relaxed walking pace.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve without paying upfront.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs due to stairs and underground access.

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