Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Discover Edinburgh’s Dark Side for $27 in Just 2 Hours

The Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour offers a compelling journey into the city’s shadowy past, all for $27 per person. Spanning 2 hours, this guided walk takes you through the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center, revealing gruesome stories, haunted graveyards, and secrets lurking in alleyways. With over 1,291 reviews and an impressive 4.8/5 rating, it clearly strikes a chord with those intrigued by ghostly tales and dark history.

This tour is ideal for visitors who enjoy a mix of history, spooky storytelling, and a dash of Edinburgh’s notorious past. The guides bring the city’s darker stories alive, making it suitable for curious adults who appreciate lively storytelling and atmospheric locations. Keep in mind, this experience involves some walking and is not suited for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: Just $27 for a 2-hour guided walking experience
• Start Point: Meets on The Royal Mile at Stevenlaw’s Close
• Main Highlights: Graveyard visits, tales of Burke and Hare, witch trials, and the murder of Mary Queen of Scots’ lover
• Locations Visited: Canongate Kirkyard, Edinburgh Old Town, and Arthur’s Seat
• Experience Focus: Dark history, ghost stories, and Edinburgh’s notorious figures
• Top Ratings: Highly praised for knowledgeable guides, engaging stories, and spectacular views

Starting Point on the Royal Mile

The tour begins on The Royal Mile, at the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close. Travelers are greeted by guides wearing red name badges, making it easy to spot them. From here, the tour immediately immerses you into Edinburgh’s mysterious atmosphere, setting the tone for a spooky exploration.

The Royal Mile itself is steeped in history, with underground vaults and ancient tombs hidden beneath its busy streets. The guide’s storytelling quickly draws you into tales of grave robbing, body snatching, and historic murders, giving the walk an exciting, chilling start.

Exploring Canongate Kirkyard and Its Macabre Mausoleums

One of the tour’s main stops is the Canongate Kirkyard, a graveyard famous for its eerie mausoleums and historical significance. The guide spins chilling stories about real-life cannibals and vampires associated with the site, bringing Edinburgh’s darker past to life.

The mausoleums add a tangible feel of the past, and the stories about those laid to rest here include tales of grave robbing and mysterious burials. Visitors find this stop particularly atmospheric, as the tombstones and ancient stones seem to whisper stories of centuries gone by.

Delving into Edinburgh’s Old Town and Its Dark Secrets

Next, the tour takes a 30-minute walk through Edinburgh’s Old Town, where history and ghost stories intertwine. The guide shares insights into infamous events like witch burnings and murder cases that left their mark on the city.

Throughout this segment, you’ll learn about the city’s past as a place of both enlightenment and dread. The narrow streets and shadowy corners serve as a perfect backdrop for tales of body snatching and body snatching, adding an authentic feel to the storytelling.

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The Canongate District’s Haunted Tales

The 20-minute visit to the Canongate District reveals more about Edinburgh’s haunted history. This area is known for its atmospheric charm and its connection to ghost stories, making it a favorite among visitors.

Here, you’ll hear about mysterious murders and the truth behind the murder of Mary Queen of Scots’ lover, offering a mix of fact and folklore that captures the city’s complex history. The guide’s engaging narration keeps the stories lively and memorable.

Walking Up to Arthur’s Seat for a Spooky View

The tour includes a 30-minute segment leading up to Arthur’s Seat, providing sweeping views of Edinburgh. Though primarily a scenic spot, the ascent offers a moment to reflect on the city’s haunted past, as the guide recounts stories tied to the landscape.

Standing here, you get a different perspective on Edinburgh’s history—both its natural beauty and the darker legends that surround it. The elevated location lends a dramatic atmosphere perfect for stories of vampires and body snatching.

Concluding at 153 Canongate

The tour wraps up at 153 Canongate, a historic mansion where many of the stories have been woven into the fabric of Edinburgh’s darker history. The final stop allows for a relaxed moment to digest the tales, and guides often share behind-the-scenes insights about the city’s haunted sites.

Throughout the experience, guides maintain a lively, humorous tone, making even the spine-chilling stories approachable and entertaining. The ending back at Canongate provides a satisfying conclusion, with many participants feeling they’ve uncovered a truly spooky side of Edinburgh.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The meeting point is at the Royal Mile, easily accessible in the city center. The tour is designed as a guided walk, with the guide wearing a red badge for easy identification. The 2-hour duration makes it an easy addition to any Edinburgh itinerary, especially for those interested in history with a dark twist.

It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to the walking involved. The experience is conducted in English, and there is no hotel pickup or drop-off included. You should arrive prepared for some uneven streets and walking.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience exceptional is the knowledge and storytelling ability of the guides. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Alasdair, G, Niamh, Charlie, and Belle as being informative, humorous, and engaging, significantly enhancing the experience.

The tour’s focus on real stories of murders, witch trials, and supernatural tales resonates well with those who love spooky, history-driven adventures. The price of $27 for 2 hours of entertainment and education offers excellent value, especially given the praise for the spectacular views and immersive storytelling.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Experience

This tour appeals strongly to adults with an interest in history, ghost stories, and dark legends. The stories are vivid and sometimes gory, making it less suitable for children or those uncomfortable with spooky themes. Visitors who appreciate entertaining guides and authentic atmospheres will find this experience especially satisfying.

While not suited for those with mobility issues, the tour’s pacing and engaging narration make it a memorable way to explore Edinburgh’s mysterious side during a brief but impactful walk through the city’s dark past.

Edinburgh’s Dark Side: A Well-Rated Experience

With an outstanding 4.8-star rating from over 1,291 reviews, this tour clearly resonates with many who seek a fun, spooky, and educational activity. Reviewers frequently commend guides like Alasdair, Niamh, and Charlie for their knowledge, humor, and captivating storytelling.

Many highlight the tour’s value for money and atmospheric stops such as Canongate Kirkyard and the scenic views near Arthur’s Seat. The combination of history, ghost stories, and Edinburgh’s haunting locations creates an experience that many consider a highlight of their visit.

Final Thoughts on Edinburgh’s Dark Side Tour

If you love stories of murder, witch trials, and vampires set against Edinburgh’s historic streets, this guided walking tour offers a balanced mix of entertainment and insight. The knowledgeable guides and atmospheric locations are the tour’s strengths, making it a compelling choice for those interested in the city’s darker history.

The 2-hour duration and affordable price make it accessible and easy to fit into a day’s plans. Be prepared for some walking and uneven streets, and come ready for some spine-tingling tales and scenic views. This experience provides a vivid, memorable glimpse into Edinburgh’s haunted past—perfect for fans of ghost stories and historical mysteries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily designed for adults interested in ghost stories and dark history. The stories can be quite gory and intense, so it may not be suitable for children.

Are there any mobility restrictions?
Yes, the tour involves walking and is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins on The Royal Mile at Stevenlaw’s Close and ends at 153 Canongate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is there a dress code or special equipment needed?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to some uneven streets and walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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