Edinburgh: Old Town and Underground Historical Tour

Discover Edinburgh’s Old Town and Underground Vaults for Just $24

The Edinburgh: Old Town and Underground Historical Tour offers a captivating 1.5-hour journey through one of Scotland’s most iconic cities. Priced at $24 per person, this tour is led by a local published historian who brings Edinburgh’s long and fascinating past to life. Starting from the Old Police Box on the Royal Mile, it combines outdoor walking with exclusive access to over 400 years of underground vaults.

Designed for curious minds, this tour showcases hidden closes, historical sites, and stories behind Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks. While it involves walking, including walking down eight steps into the vaults, it’s accessible for most visitors who enjoy engaging storytelling and a bit of exploration. This tour suits those interested in history, legends, and Edinburgh’s secret stories, offering a mix of entertainment and education.

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Key Points

• Led by a passionate local published historian guide
• Includes entry into Edinburgh’s underground vaults
• Explores Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, closes, and hidden spots
• Offers storytelling about famous criminals, literary heroes, and city secrets
• Duration: 1.5 hours, price: $24, starting from the Royal Mile
• Suitable for ages 5 and up, but not accessible for mobility impairments or wheelchair users

Starting Point at the Royal Mile in Front of StarBucks

This tour begins at the Police Box / Kiosk on the Royal Mile, directly in front of a Starbucks. The meeting point is easy to find and central, making it convenient for visitors staying nearby. The guide introduces themselves here before leading the group into Edinburgh’s underground vaults. The end point is back at the same spot, so no need to worry about transportation after the tour concludes.

Exploring the Historic Underground Vaults of Edinburgh

The Underground Vaults are the highlight of this experience, with over 400 years of history waiting beneath the city streets. The guide leads visitors into the vaults, which involves walking down eight steps. These vaults are full of stories about fascinating past residents, criminals, and tales of mystery.

Visitors get exclusive access, walking through areas most travelers don’t see, and hearing about Edinburgh’s long underground history. The vaults are described as eerie but intriguing, with the guide sharing stories that make the history come alive. The guide’s passion and detailed explanations help create a vivid picture of Edinburgh’s dark and mysterious past.

Strolling Through the Royal Mile’s Hidden Closes

After the underground visit, the guide takes the group along the Royal Mile to explore hidden closes and historic sites. These narrow alleyways and secret passages reveal Edinburgh’s layered history that many visitors miss. The stops include lesser-known locations that hold significant stories, such as the inspiration behind Jekyll and Hyde and the origin of the phrase “Black Market”.

The tour’s pace allows enough time to appreciate each site’s significance while keeping the atmosphere lively and engaging. The guide shares stories of literary heroes, notorious criminals, and local legends, making each stop both informative and entertaining.

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The Guide’s Style: Passionate, Informative, and Entertaining

Throughout the tour, guides like Emilie, Holly, Brandon, and Chihon receive praise for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling flair. They answer questions enthusiastically and make the experience fun and accessible for all ages. Reviews highlight their ability to bring history to life, whether by sharing anecdotes or making complex stories easy to understand.

Several guides are noted for accommodating non-English speakers and keeping children entertained. Emilie, in particular, receives glowing remarks for her passion and charisma, making the experience more memorable.

Accessibility, Group Size, and Practical Details

The tour is suitable for children aged 5 and above, but not accessible for people with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs. The group size is kept manageable, making it easier to hear and engage with the guide.

The meeting point is the Police Box in front of Starbucks, and the tour ends at the same location. The entire experience involves a moderate amount of walking, including steps into the vaults. Visitors should be prepared for a walking pace that covers various streets and alleyways.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan without stress. The tour operates in English, and availability varies, so checking start times is recommended.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

This tour stands out for its focus on Edinburgh’s underground vaults combined with a comprehensive tour of the Royal Mile. While many similar experiences exist, the entry into the vaults and the local published historian guides provide a more immersive and authentic experience.

Other tours might focus solely on ghost stories or paranormal tales, but this tour emphasizes historical facts, colorful stories, and local legends, making it more educational while equally entertaining.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for History Enthusiasts

The expert guides, who are often praised for their passion and storytelling skills, make this tour particularly compelling. Visitors appreciate learning about Edinburgh’s first skyscrapers, bizarre connections to literary figures, and the city’s role in medical history with Burke and Hare.

The entry into the vaults and exploration of hidden closes add a sense of adventure and discovery that elevates this experience beyond a typical city walk.

Final Thoughts on the Edinburgh Old Town and Underground Tour

Priced at $24, this tour offers excellent value for those interested in Edinburgh’s darker corners and secret stories. It balances history, legends, and fun, making it suitable for families, history buffs, and curious travelers alike. The passionate guides and exclusive vault access make the experience memorable.

While it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges, most visitors will find the tour well-paced and deeply engaging. The stories of criminals, literary heroes, and city secrets make it an ideal introduction to Edinburgh’s layered past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and older are welcome. However, it involves walking down steps into the vaults, so consider children’s comfort with steps.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking can be done with reserve now, pay later options.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour not suitable for mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the steps into the vaults and walking involved.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English only. Some guides, like Chihon, have an international background, and the tour is conducted in a lively, engaging manner.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, starting from the Royal Mile and including visits to the vaults, closes, and hidden sites.

What is included in the ticket price?
The entry into Edinburgh’s underground vaults and the expert guide are included. Food and drinks are not included.

Where does the tour end?
The tour ends back at the meeting point in front of the Police Box on the Royal Mile, making it easy to continue exploring or depart.

This Edinburgh: Old Town and Underground Historical Tour offers a balanced mix of history, storytelling, and adventure, perfect for travelers eager to uncover Edinburgh’s hidden stories and underground secrets.

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