• Find/Contact
  • Media Reviews
  • DOUBLE DEAD TOUR
  • HAUNTED GRAVEYARD TOUR
  • UNDERGROUND CITY OF THE DEAD
  • The Mackenzie Poltergeist
  • Easter Weekend Tours
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  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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World Famous, Award Winning, ​Underground City​ & Haunted Graveyard Tours ​(featuring the legendary Mackenzie Poltergeist)  ​​

edinburgh scary tour

Wandering Crystal

The 13 Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh (Updated 2024)

Is it a trip to Edinburgh if you don’t do something spooky? I recommend taking one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh to complete your spooky Scottish itinerary.

The Scottish city of Edinburgh is known for its disturbing dark past, and ghosts linger in every corner of the city.

With nearly 900 years of history, Edinburgh survived plagues, witchcraft, grave robbers, and so much more dark history. Want to learn more and find out more about the ghosts that haunt Edinburgh? Check out one of the ghost tours down below.

Best Ghost tours in Edinburgh - St Giles on a rainy night in Edinburgh.

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The 13 Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland

1. auld reekie tours.

Head down to Edinburgh’s haunted vaults by taking the Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour . This is one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh and offers a unique experience as you head into the vaults. 

The Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour begins with a walk around Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, where you will hear tales of the terrifying Tolbooth Prison that once sat outside St. Giles Cathedral.

Before heading down to the haunted vaults, you will pass through a small museum that features an array of medieval instruments once used on real people in the past. Finally, you can find out what a scold’s bridle was used for!

The tour takes you down to the South Bridge vaults, where you will see the infamous stone circle vault . The stone circle is said to hold an evil presence. If you step inside the circle, you may regret it! (I stepped inside, and I am fine if that makes you feel better, or am I?!)

And, to top it off, the vaults are home to a former witch’s coven, so if you are interested in witchcraft history in Scotland , this is the tour to take.

Book here: Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour

2. Mercat Tours

If you want to find things for adults to do in Edinburgh , check out the Edinburgh Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky .

The tour takes you through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, where you will hear all about the gruesome and ghastly tales that occurred on Edinburgh’s historic cobbled streets.

Once you are properly spooked by the terrifying tales that occurred above ground, you will be taken down to the atmospheric Blair Street Vaults.

The vaults are home to various ghosts, including the friendly cobbler and the very scary Mr. Boots! Be sure to take the tour to hear all about their history!

What makes this tour even better? While listening to more ghost stories, you will drink some delectable Scotch Whisky in a candlelit vault.

One thing that makes this one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh is they provide headphones to listen to the tour guide so that you won’t miss out on any of the spooky stories.

Looking for spooky things to do in Edinburgh? Going on a ghost tour is the perfect way to spend Halloween in Edinburgh .

Book here: Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

3. City of Edinburgh Tours

On The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour , follow an expert guide dressed in a period costume deep down into Edinburgh’s haunted vaults.

Fully immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s spooky past while walking through Greyfriars Kirkyard before heading deep into the underground vaults.

What helps make this one of Edinburgh’s best ghost tours? All of the guides are dressed up as real people from Edinburgh’s sinister past. Will you walk through Old Town Edinburgh with Dr. Robert Knox, Deacon Brodie or Maggie Dickson? (to name a few). 

This is a family-friendly tour, so feel free to bring the kids along to experience a fright!

Book here: The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

4. Sandemans New Europe – Britain

Edinburgh’s Dark Side Walking Tour is one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh, as it takes you to the site where witches were burned during the Great Scottish Witch Hunt on Calton Hill. 

If you want to learn more about Edinburgh’s historic graveyards and who is buried within them – the tour also stops at either the Old Calton Burial Ground or Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh’s most haunted graveyard .

This tour covers a lot of ground, so be prepared to do quite a bit of walking, including hills – but the views and stories along the way are worth it!

Book here: Edinburgh’s Dark Side Walking Tour

5. Auld Reekie

Head down to Edinburgh’s spooky Niddry Street vaults and visit Edinburgh’s most haunted graveyard with the Edinburgh: Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour .

Follow an expert guide through Edinburgh’s dark streets as they regale you with tales of Edinburgh’s dark past. The tour takes you to places where criminals like Burke and Hare would roam the city streets.

Wander through the haunted Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you will hear the terrifying tales of the poltergeist who scratches people who visit the graveyard.

Finally, the tour ends in the haunted Niddry Street Vaults, home to a cursed stone circle and former witches coven.

Book here: Edinburgh: Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour

6. The Ghost Bus Tours

If you love ghost stories but would instead enjoy them in a warm vehicle? Look no further than the Ghost Bus Tours ! Why walk around in the cold weather like a sucker when you can ride through town in a vintage black double-decker bus?

The ghost tour is full of theatrics and comedy over super scary stories. So, if you want an evening of fun rather than stories so frightening you won’t be able to sleep – you must take this tour.

One of the best things about this ghost tour is it allows you to cover so much more ground than a walking tour! You can see sights that most tours won’t visit in one night!

Book here: The Ghost Bus Tours

7. Mercat Tours

If you want to go on a ghost tour in Edinburgh but hate large crowds, I recommend going on Mercat Tours Small Group Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour .

The tour starts with listening to gruesome stories while wandering around Edinburgh’s Old Town before you descend into the dark and spooky Blair Street Vaults. Spend time listening to the horrifying tales of Edinburgh’s dark past, including stories of body snatching with flickering candles as the only light source.

The Blair Street Vaults are home to their own ghosts whose spirits linger in various spots within the vaults. Listen to the spooky tales of ghosts, including the cobbler and the terrifying Mr. Boots.

So, if you want to take one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh but want to avoid the big groups, I highly recommend the Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour.

Book here: Small Group Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

8. Auld Reekie

Why not make a ghost tour even more terrifying by taking it late at night? They do say that ghosts become more active at night!

Auld Reekie’s Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour takes you deep below Edinburgh South Bridge into the dark South Bridge Vaults, home to the super scary ghost known as The Watcher. 

If you feel a tingle on your neck or shivers run up your spine, the Watcher may be following you as you tour through the haunted vaults. You will hear stories about the former criminals who used to roam through the vaults, causing a reign of terror.

The tour also features a cursed stone circle vault and a museum of medieval devices that punish people who committed simple crimes. 

Book here: Edinburgh: Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour

9. City of the Dead Tours

Visit the incredibly haunted Covenators Prison with the City of the Dead’s Double Dead Tour . This is the only tour that takes you to the locked-up area of Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard. Why is the prison locked up? The ghosts that haunt the area are brutal, and tour guests often leave with scratches, bruises or feeling unwell.

Then, head down to the South Bridge Vaults, where you may meet the evil presence known as the South Bridge Entity. The vaults are terrifying and give off a creepy vibe. This gives the South Bridge Vaults the perfect spooky atmosphere for people who love to be scared.

Book here: City of the Dead’s Double Dead Tour

10. City of the Dead Tours

The Underground City of the Dead Vault Tour takes you to vaults known as Damnation Alley. The vaults were recently unsealed, and a dark poltergeist was discovered to haunt them. 

You will stand within the ominous vaults, and the City of the Dead tour guides will regale you with Edinburgh’s macabre history as you stand in dark, quiet vaults where this history once occurred.

I spent the night inside these terrifying vaults and experienced a lot of paranormal activity, including a dog barking through an EVP recorder. It was a cool experience, and I recommend taking the  Underground City of the Dead Tour if you enjoy being scared.

Book here: Underground City of the Dead Tour

11. The Cadies & Witchery Tours

Want a light-hearted tour filled with laughter but still want to be scared? Then, check out the Ghosts and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh .

Your guide for the evening is Alexander Clapperton, a deceased cemetery director who ruled over the cemeteries of Edinburgh in the 1840s.

You will learn all about the horrors of witchcraft history in Edinburgh and all of the dark histories that lurk within the shadows of the city’s ancient closes.

What makes this one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh? The tour includes a free book, “Witchery Tales” by Adam Lyal. 

They also do a great tour for those who want to tour Greyfriars Kirkyard. Check out their Edinburgh: Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour if you are interested.

Book here: Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

12. Historic Edinburgh Tours

If you want to tour the dark history of Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard, you should take the Historic Edinburgh Tour of Greyfriars.

This private tour, called Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour in Edinburgh , takes you around the graveyard, telling you about the macabre history that sits right beneath your feet.

This tour is not paranormal, but it discusses the history of body snatchers, Covenanters Prison, and all of the gruesome histories in between.

Your tour guide, Robert, is an incredible storyteller. He will keep you captivated from start to finish!

Book here: Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour in Edinburgh – Private tour

13. Thistle Knights Tours

One thing Scotland has a lot of is Witch History. The Great Scottish Witch Hunt consumed Scotland, and much witch-related torture occurred between 1590 and 1690 in Edinburgh.

The Edinburgh: The Witches Tour takes you around Edinburgh and details why someone may have been accused of being a witch. Why witchcraft existed in Edinburgh and shows you actual human remains that were once used for witchcraft rituals.

What makes this one of the witch tours in Edinburgh? You get a chakra reading and balance work done on the tour. This is done for an extra cost if the Witches shop is open.

If you would like to learn more about witches in Scotland , check out the podcast episode on YouTube . 

Book here: Edinburgh: The Witches Tour

More Spooky and Haunted Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

  • Spooky Things to Do in Edinburgh
  • Unusual Things to Do in Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh Castle Ghosts – Is Edinburgh Castle Haunted?
  • The 10 Best Cemetery Tours in Edinburgh
  • Haunted Hotels in Scotland
  • The Dark History of Half Hangit Maggie
  • The 17 Best Edinburgh Vaults Tours

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edinburgh scary tour

Underground City of the Dead

The most haunted section of Edinburgh's legendary Underground City, inside the South Bridge Vaults. Home to the 'South Bridge Entity'

Descend into a section of Edinburgh’s legendary Underground City , where a population once lived in utter misery. Forgotten for centuries and only recently unsealed, this part of the vaults is known as Damnation Alley . With good reason. 

Black as Satan’s jammies, with a fascinating history to match, these dark chambers are stalked by a malevolent presence known as the South Bridge Entity . Its story is brought vividly to life in the book The Town Below The Ground: Edinburgh’s Legendary Underground City.  Signed copies are available after the tour.

The South Bridge Vaults. They’re darker than you think.

Our walks are written and researched by historical author and award winning novelist, J A Henderson – who has written books on the Underground City, The Mackenzie Poltergeist and Haunted Edinburgh. Our guides are a mixture of historians and professional entertainers, picked for their ability to improvise, entertain and make each tour unique and individual. 

 This is history brought to life through storytelling, rather than simply walking around and pointing out historical facts. As a result we have enjoyed years of rave media reviews. City of the Dead has been named “Britain’s Best Ghost Walk” by Scare.com, Yahoo! Travel and Virgin Media and is the only Scottish attraction to be short listed for the prestigious Screamie Awards (3 times!) and the Luxury Travel Awards. We also won Scare Tours ‘Best Ghost Tour’ award.

COVID-19 information

Safe Travels

This business has confirmed that they have implemented, and will ensure ongoing compliance with, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols. The Safe Travels stamp is based on self-assessment and it is not a certification.

From £16 per adult

Departure days.

  • W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

Tour information

  • Edinburgh - City Centre
  • Medium Group (17-30)
  • Small Group (1-16)
  • Ghosts and Supernatural

Tour prices

From £16 Per Adult £14 Concession

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour gallery

Black Hart Entertainment/City of the Dead Tours

Tour company information

Black hart entertainment/city of the dead tours.

Researched and designed by best-selling historical author and award winning novelist J A Henderson, our walks combine the weirdest stories, wickedest humour and wildest history. And we have sole access to two of the word's most haunted locations - Damnation Alley in Edinburgh's legendary 'Underground City' and the Covenanter's Prison in Greyfriars Graveyard. This locked section is the lair of the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist, the best documented supernatural case of all time and responsible for hundreds of 'attacks' on our participants. Zoiks!

Social Channels

Visit Black Hart Entertainment/City of the Dead Tours

Opening times

Office hours 10.00am - 10.00pm all year round (excluding Xmas Day and New Year's Eve). Tours run daytime and night time. Call 0131 225 9044 for times

Other tours from this company

Safe Travels

City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour

Departs: Edinburgh - City Centre, Edinburgh

This tour has sole access to the Covenanter's Prison, a locked section of Greyfr...

Price from:

£16pp

The Double Dead Tour

The Double Dead Tour

The worst of both possible worlds. A tour that goes into both the South Bridge...

£19pp

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

The Cadies & Witchery Tours

The Cadies & Witchery Tours

Welcome, traveller.

The award-winning Cadies & Witchery Tours invite you to join our fearless phantoms for a suspenseful and mirth-filled walking tour of Edinburgh's Old Town. Step back a few hundred years as Alexander Clapperton (deceased) and his spooky chums bring the Capital's grisly past vividly to life.

The Ghosts & Gore Tour

A gentle early-evening walk, meeting some frightful but friendly ghosts with plenty of time to chat!

  • When? Wednesday - Sunday
  • What time? 7pm

The Greyfriars Cemetery Tour

An afternoon stroll full of surprising historical tales in Edinburgh's most famous graveyard. No pesky ghosts interrupting.

  • What time? 2pm

The Murder & Mystery Tour

Fun and frights with the original Edinburgh ghost tour. Up a close with a ghost.

  • When? Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 19 September 2020

Just pick a tour from the schedule below, or visit our Tour Booking page to pick any date up to a year ahead, and find out more about the tours.

Public Tour Prices

Upcoming public tours, fri, 22 mar 2024.

  • 19:00 (Ghosts & Gore) GOING FAST

Sat, 23 Mar 2024

  • 14:00 (Greyfriars Cemetery) SOLD OUT

Sun, 24 Mar 2024

  • 14:00 (Greyfriars Cemetery) GOING FAST
  • 19:00 (Ghosts & Gore)

Mon, 25 Mar 2024

Tue, 26 mar 2024, wed, 27 mar 2024, thu, 28 mar 2024, different date.

BOOK NOW for any date

Private Tours

If the public tour schedule is not suitable for your party, or you just like having the tour to yourselves, we also offer private tours starting from £150.

Just contact us with your preferred date and time, and we can arrange something to suit you down to the ground (or lower!).

Explore Edinburgh's most famous graveyard and learn some of its most unexpected secrets.

  • When? By appointment
  • What time? By appointment

A classic walk in the Old Town with some very knowledgeable ghosts.

In the Shop

Explore our uncannily unique range of gifts and curios. Bloodcurdling books, awful apparel, 'orrible objets d'art ... something for everyone.

edinburgh scary tour

Embossed notebook (Awaken Your Magic)

edinburgh scary tour

Tarot Cards (Lisa Parker Familiar)

edinburgh scary tour

Witches figurine (Zelda)

If you don't find something there to tickle your fancy, you'll find even more goodies in our real live physical shop ! Why not pop in and rendezvous with our rogueish retail revenants?

Shop Opening Hours

Mon - Tue: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Wed - Sun: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Visit The William Burke Museum

Venture into the World's Smallest Museum (probably!)

UK Travel Planning

9 Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 5, 2023

Don’t miss adding an Edinburgh ghost tour to your itinerary! Discover the spookiest and most fun Edinburgh ghost tours with our complete guide.

Recognised as one of the most haunted cities in the world if taking a ghost tour of Edinburgh is a must-have inclusion during your visit to the Scottish capital (it was for my husband who enjoyed a Vaults Tour while I explored the Old City above ground) you will find our comparison guide to the best tours invaluable for choosing the best one for you.

We have included the best ghost walks in Edinburgh, ghost tours of Edinburgh vaults, a spooky tour suitable for kids and even an Edinburgh ghost tour bus option!

Edinburgh Ghost Tours take you round graveyards like this one in the image.

👻 Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours – Quick Picks

Edinburgh vaults: ghost tour, edinburgh ghosts & gore walking tour, terror walking tour in edinburgh, comedy horror edinburgh ghost bus tour, dark secrets of the old town ghost walking tour.

  • Small Group Ghost Tour incl. Underground Vaults & free drinks in Megget's Cellar

Underground Vaults & Graveyard Evening Tour

Treasures of edinburgh: ghosts, myths & legends private tour.

  • Old Edinburgh's Gory Stories: Kids Underground Tour

👻 Which Edinburgh ghost tour do you dare to take?

👻 best spooky tours & ghost walks in edinburgh.

  • Access to Edinburgh Vaults
  • Live tour guide

Enter the famous underground vaults (reputedly one of the most haunted places on earth) during this one-hour tour. Listen to tales of gruesome goings-on including witches, murders and even hangings in the oldest part of the city.

Learn about the history of the vaults and the ghosts that haunt it!

CLICK TO BOOK THIS TOUR

Edinburgh's Underground Vaults.

  • Qualified Ghostly Guide
  • Copy of the best-selling “Witchery Tales” book by Adam Lyal (deceased).

A popular ghost tour taken by award-winning Cadies & Witchery Tours the Edinburgh Ghosts and Gore Walking Tour receives rave reviews for their fun family-friendly tour.

Edinburgh graveyard.

  • Professional guide
  • 90 minute tour

Enjoy a 90 minute terror walking tour of Edinburgh’s ancient Old Town with a guide. Visit hidden underground vaults under cover of darkness and learn of famous landmarks from past and present such as Tolbooth Prison and St Giles’ Cathedral.

The Scott Monument in Edinburgh shrouded in the mist.

  • Admission fees

If you fancy a laugh whilst ghost hunting this is the tour for you! Enjoy a one-hour bus tour of the Old and New City of Edinburgh and be entertained as you explore some of the spookiest destinations (including a chilling walk through one of Edinburgh’s spookiest graveyards)

Ghost bus tour in Edinburgh.

  • Walking tour

Discover Scotland’s mythical sites. Walk around the city of Edinburgh passing graveyards, aged houses, and the sites where witches and warlocks were burnt on this sinister yet insightful walking tour.

Edinburgh graveyard.

Small Group Ghost Tour incl. Underground Vaults & free drinks in Megget’s Cellar

  • Award-winning local storytellers
  • Small group experience
  • Exclusive access to Blair Street Underground Vaults
  • TourTalk radio receiver to enjoy immersive storytelling
  • Alcoholic Beverage

During this evening tour visit the eerie Blair Street Underground Vaults, follow in the footsteps of the infamous Edinburgh Mob, and then settle your nerves with a dram of Scotch whisky in Megget’s Cellar!

Edinburgh's Underground Vaults.

  • Radio receiver (to hear the guide)
  • Entry to Blair Street Underground Vaults

Descend the underground vaults under cover of darkness before following your guide through the narrow streets to Canongate graveyard where many famous Edinburgh residents are interred.

Edinburgh's Underground Vaults.

  • Local Guide
  • Private Tour

Learn about Edinburgh’s ghosts, myths and legends and why they are such a unique part of the city’s character on this exclusive private tour.

The grave of Tom Riddle in Edinburgh.

Old Edinburgh’s Gory Stories: Kids Underground Tour

  • TourTalk radio receiver to enjoy live storytelling

This personal small group family-friendly tour is perfect for kids aged 5 and over. Learn about life for children in 19th century Edinburgh and explore some of the city’s spookiest haunts

Edinburgh's Underground Vaults.

Enjoy your ghost tour of Edinburgh – hope it is not too scary!

You can read more about planning your perfect trip to Edinburgh in the following posts:

  • Things to do in Edinburgh (+ Itinerary Guide)
  • Top tips for first time visitors to Edinburgh
  • Where to stay in Edinburgh
  • Best day trips from edimburgh
  • How to get from London to Edinburgh (and vice versa!)

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The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

A black and white photo of the historic architecture of Edinburgh

When it comes to spooky cities, Edinburgh takes the cake. It’s often considered one of the most haunted cities in the entire world — and anyone who has been will be hard-pressed to argue.

When I was there a few years ago, I took part in some of the city’s many ghost tours. Regardless of whether you believe in ghosts or not, these tours take you on an adventure that not only teaches you a part of Edinburgh’s history but also leaves you feeling just a little “weird.”

Or, if you are like me, scared shitless.

While I hate horror movies because I always find them too unbelievable, as Alfred Hitchcock said, a good fright comes from what people don’t see or know.

When I finished my ghost tours, I was so spooked that I refused to sleep with the light off that night. The only other time I felt such unease was after I saw The Blair Witch Project .

Whether you’re looking for a fright or just want to learn about this historic city’s spooky past, you’ll definitely want to take a ghost tour during your visit. Here are the best ghost tours in Edinburgh to help you make the most out of your next visit:  

1. City of the Dead

City of the Dead is one of the top-rated ghost tours in Edinburgh. This tour takes you through the underground vaults that were used as storage space and workshops for businesses in the 1780s. The vaults were then abandoned in 1795 and became slums, turning into a red-light district with countless brothels and pubs.

Moving through the vaults in the dark, with your mind in overdrive, creates an atmosphere of unease that you want on a ghost tour.

There are 4 different tours available daily at 3:30pm, 8pm, 8:30pm, 9pm, 9:30pm and 10pm (hours vary in the winter, check the website for availability). Tours last 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes and are not suitable for children under 12. Tickets are 16-19 GBP per person.

2. Mercat Tours

Mercat Tours offers 5 different ghost tours. They have tours in the haunted vaults and the graveyard as well as through the Old Town of the city.

This is the only company in the city that offers vault tours during the day , which is a good way to beat the crowds. (They also have tours available in French and German too.)

Tours last 1-2 hours and run daily from 11am-9:30pm. Tickets start at 20 GBP per person.

3. Auld Reekie Tours

Like Mercat, Auld Reekie Tours offers a few different tour choices for anyone looking for a fright. They have vault and graveyard tours, as well as an adult-only tour for anyone looking for an extra scare. If you’re looking for a frightening tour, check out their nightly Terror Tour . It’s only suitable for 18+ and will definitely leave you wishing you had a nightlight when you get home!

Not only do they have the standard vaults tour but you can actually book out the vaults for an overnight stay if you’re feeling like an extra scare (it’s not cheap, but it would definitely be a memorable experience!).

Tours operate daily from 10:30am-10pm and last 1-2 hours. Tickets start at 18 GBP.

4. Free Ghost Tour

When it comes to free haunted walking tours, this is your best choice in the city. Free Ghost Tours offers daily tours that depart from the Royal Mile, covering all the major sites and stories of the city such as the real Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the haunted graveyard, witch trials, and the Westport Murderers.

If you’re not looking for a terrifying experience, this is a good tour for you as it’s suitable for children. Just be sure to tip your guides at the end (the entire tour runs on tips, so be generous!).

Tours run nightly at 7pm and last 90 minutes. Admission is free — just be sure to tip your guide!

5. The Ghost Bus

The Ghost Bus is a ghost tour on wheels, providing a spooky ghost tour with a comedic touch. You’ll be whisked around the city in a black double-decker bus from the 1960s while being informed and entertained along the way. The tour guides are all trained actors, giving this tour a much more theatrical touch.

The buses are decorated too, making it a fully immersive experience. If you’re looking for something more unique than a standard walking tour, this is it!

Tours offered daily at 6pm, 7:30pm and 9pm and last 75 minutes. Tickets are 19 GBP.

No matter which tour you choose or whether or not you believe in ghosts, like all good ghost tours, haunted houses, and Halloween exhibits, these tours do a great job of making you feel uncomfortable by playing on your innate fear of the unknown.

Are these places really haunted or is your mind just playing tricks on you?

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter — what matters is that you had fun and learned something about Edinburgh and it’s spooky past in the process.

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Book Your Trip to Edinburgh: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

My favorite place to stay in the city is Castle Rock Hostel .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • SafetyWing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Edinburgh? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Edinburgh for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Ghost Tours

Ghost & vampire tours in edinburgh.

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  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

edinburgh scary tour

1. The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

edinburgh scary tour

2. Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends

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3. Haunted Vaults walking tour in Edinburgh

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4. Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

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5. Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

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6. Small Group Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

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7. Small Group Edinburgh Night Walking Tour with Underground Vaults

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8. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

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9. Tour of Terror

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10. Edinburgh’s Ghostly Trail Private Tour

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11. Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour

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12. Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

edinburgh scary tour

13. Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh

edinburgh scary tour

14. Small Group Ghost Tour incl. Underground Vaults & free drink in Megget's Cellar

edinburgh scary tour

15. Underground City of the Dead Tour

edinburgh scary tour

16. 2 Hours Ghost Tour - English Tour Guide

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17. City of the Dead's Double Dead Tour

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18. Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

edinburgh scary tour

19. City of the Dead Underground Vaults (Day)

edinburgh scary tour

20. Edinburgh’s Loathsome Lawbreakers: A True Crime Walking Tour

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21. City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour

edinburgh scary tour

22. Treasures of Edinburgh: Ghosts, Myths & Legends Private Tour

edinburgh scary tour

23. Gory Stories: The Kids Tour

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24. Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour - Auld Reekie After Hours

edinburgh scary tour

25. Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh Old Town

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26. Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Uncover Haunting Tales and Dark Stories

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27. Edinburgh : The Royal Mile Old Town Walking Tour

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28. Small-Group Sinister Old Town Walking Tour of Edinburgh

edinburgh scary tour

29. Edinburg : Private Haunted Graveyard Walking Tour

edinburgh scary tour

30. The Best Of Edinburgh's Amazing Old Town

What travellers are saying.

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  • Heather K 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Historic & Spooky! We had Chris as our guide and he was awesome! Really delivered the stories well and had my friend and I clutching and screaming in the creepy vaults. Def check them out if you have the chance. Read more Review of: Haunted Vaults walking tour in Edinburgh Written 21 March 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Mercat Tours Ltd, Edinburgh, Scotland

"History is a damn good story, what it needs is a damn good telling"

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History walks and ghost tours, from edinburgh's award-winning storytellers since 1985, history walks, ghost tours, work with us, exclusive - evening of archives and artefacts, gory stories: the kids’ tour, uncover more fascinating stories, scottish witches, religion & education: international women's day 2024.

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Things to do in Edinburgh: Spring 2024

The tragedies of mary, queen of scots.

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Edinburgh Ghost Walking Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

Edinburgh Ghost Walking Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

Bestseller tour in edinburgh you will discover the dark legends, the alleys where the seventeenth century people lived and died during the black plague. available every day on the royal mile..

from £ 12 per person

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Tour Description .

On the Edinburgh Mysteries, Witchery and Murders walking tour you will be introduced to Edinburgh’s gruesome past: tales of witches, murderers and graverobbers await you.

Join us in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where we will explore seventeenth-century alleyways and learn about how the Plague affected people living in this city. Travel back with us to a time when beaked doctors wandered Edinburgh’s dark alleyways and see for yourselves what it would have been like to live in plague-ridden 17th century Edinburgh .

When traveling through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town at night, it is not hard to picture its dark past. Hear tales of serial killers witch burnings, executions and torture. ,

We will also take you to two old graveyards in Edinburgh , where you will hear of a different kind of plague: graverobbing. You would not have wanted to hang around these graveyard in late 18th century Edinburgh – often, the graverobbers were armed, as they could make good money selling corpses to the School of Anatomy.

We will also head across the North Bridge and into the New Town of Edinburgh, where we will show you amazing views across the Old Town and the Castle . Be prepared to be spooked when learning more about Scottish folklore and the Scottish fairies .

Edinburgh is said to be the most haunted city in Europe, but its real history is much darker than you would expect. This city’s past is full of dark tales and mysteries, and has attracted thousands of visitors over the years, so join us in exploring it further!

Itinerary .

We have complete confidence in our professional guides,who deliver the stories of the city in their own unique, personal style. Therefore, their routes may vary slightly and cover different areas, but in most cases on the Edinburgh Mysteries, Witchery and Murders Walking Tour we will share with you:

  • Edinburgh’s Old and New Town
  • The Black Death
  • Graverobbers
  • Serial killers
  • Burke and Hare
  • Old Calton Hill Burial Ground
  • Canongate graveyard
  • Torture and executions
  • The Scottish Fairies
  • The witch hunts

Approximate time

The approximate duration of the tour is: 2h

Meeting Point .

351 High Street

Will meet at 351 High Street (Royal Mile), opposite St. Giles’ Cathedral with BLACK UMBRELLA

Would you prefer a Private Tour?

If you would like an experience tailored to you, we offer personalized packages with a variety of options. You can choose the duration of the tour, focus on specific aspects of the city’s history, and explore the locations that are of interest to you.

Private tour

What they think about this tour .

Manuel garcia 05 | 03 | 2023.

Great tour, and really nice recommendations about local things

Connector60412479401 26 | 02 | 2023

A super interesting tour with Raj, who was really knowledgeable and brought a funny side to the dark and creepy stories of Edinburgh.

fabiolavQ8107UB 12 | 02 | 2023

Ever though we weren’t able to get both graveyards, the guide made it a super interesting and informative tour, a lot of stories and facts

Hannah 12 | 02 | 2023

Sonia was a lovely tour guide! She told us many interesting things about Edinburgh's dark (so dark) history with much enthusiasm, would definitely recommend!! ^-^

정명훈 10 | 02 | 2023

Sonia was a great introducer. even though I am not an English user, I could understand the story lines, which was really interesting. If you ask me if it was scary, I will say not that time, but after the tour, I felt some spooky mood from the story. so, It was helpful to vary my view for this city. Good!

sara van loon 09 | 02 | 2023

It was a fun tour. thnx to Sonia.

AnnaStiady 26 | 01 | 2023

Our tour leader is Raj, He mades the story of how scotland became part of british so interesting.I also enjoy his the scary telling story of how people being punished at old age, the hanging, witchecraft story and the story of the plagues. We just had a short stay in edinburgh, we are so happy to have this tour, many memorable stories to tell backhome. Raj is also so kind to give us information about interesting places to visit in our limited time.

blaithin sharkey 26 | 01 | 2023

Thoroughly enjoyed the witch tour! Host Terry was fantastic and really made it fun

Glin83 25 | 01 | 2023

Ghost Tour was fab and very much enjoyed! Would recommend. Loads of interesting history and stories told by our guide Tommy

linda_X385ZD 24 | 01 | 2023

Tour guide was very nice he was funny gave us a couple of frights in graveyard the tour guide Tommy knew his stuff and we had fun

Keara DeKay 24 | 01 | 2023

We loved the Dark Secrets of the Old Town walking tour with Sonia! Highly recommend, especially if you like spooky stories and a dark sense of humor!

Laura Nguyen 20 | 01 | 2023

Had an awesome tour with our guide Sonya! We learnt a lot about Edinburgh’s dark history. Sonya is an amazing storyteller and brought a lot of fun to the tour with her dark sense of humour. Highly recommended!

City of Edinburgh Tours

  • Most Popular

World Famous Underground Ghost Tour @ 18:10; 18:45; 19:45

Are you brave enough?

Quick Details

  • Tags Ages: Ages 5+
  • Hour Glass Duration: 1 Hour and 15 Minutes
  • Clock Schedule: Daily @ 18:10; 18:45; 19:45

Discover the Most Haunted City in the World on a Ghost Tour of Edinburgh!

Join us for our World Famous Underground Ghost Tour!

Let one of Edinburgh’s most infamous sons or daughters lead you round the dark side of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Learn cooking skills from Cassandra Bean or surgical ethics from Dr Knox. Once you’re acquainted they will lead you through the upper half of the Old Town, around St Giles Cathedral, showing the sites of the city’s former parliament and infamous jail. Discover the grim living conditions of this city’s Old Town throughout the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

After crossing George IV Bridge the next part of the tour takes place in Greyfriars Kirkyard. Inside this decidedly sinister, 450 year old cemetery you will hear of its famously loyal dog, petrifying poltergeists as well as the notorious body snatchers and serial killers Burke and Hare.

For the last part of the tour follow your guide to the underground, a section of a former seventeenth-century close absorbed into South Bridge when it was constructed. See bridge arches from the 1700s, walls and doorways from former houses and the modern pavement (with people walking over you) through our skylight. This old street has had many inhabitants through the centuries but some have not seen their own deaths as a reason to depart! The Underground Ghost Tour Edinburgh ends with your guide leading you out of the underground and back to our ticket office.

Edinburgh guided tours FAQ

  • Chevron down Meeting Point & Location

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour starts from our Old Police Box, 124A High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1QS.

Our tickets box is just outside the Tron Kirk and directly infront of Starbucks.

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour ends from our Old Police Box, 124A High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1QS.

  • Chevron down Where can I book this tour?

This tour can be booked online using the widget above, through our ticket office which you can call on 0131 220 6868, or at the office itself at Old Police Box, 9 Hunter Square, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1QS. It is recommended that you book because our tours can very easily sell out especially during the summer months.

  • Chevron down Is there a lot of walking on this Tour?

With the exception of the Alternative Tour and the Ultimate Old Town Historical Tour, there is only a small amount of walking on our tours. However please wear comfortable shoes otherwise you will find the Old Town’s cobblestones rather unpleasant!

  • Chevron down Can children come on this tour?

Children over five years old are welcome on all our tours, except for the Pub Crawl, the Extreme Paranormal Tour and the Ladies of Pleasure Tour, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

  • Chevron down Is the underground wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately our underground is only accessible via a flight of stairs. For more information about the underground visit our accessibility section.

  • Chevron down Will this tour run in bad weather?

Our tours run in rain, hail, sleet or snow, so long as we have people booked on, willing to do the tour it will run. Please wrap warm though if the weather is not on our side.

a stone fireplace

Related Activities

  • Hour Glass 1 Hour and 15 Minutes
  • Tags Ages 18+

Extreme Paranormal Ghost Tour Edinburgh @ 21:15

For the hardened Ghost hunter, or the non-believer, this late night walking ghost tour is not for the faint-hearted! Explore the mysterious Greyfriars Kirkyard cemetery and more at night.

  • Hour Glass 1 Hour and 30 Minutes
  • Tags Ages 5+

Old Town & Underground Historical Ghost Tour @ 11:00; 14:15

Join a local historian on our historical walking tour around Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. Learn about Edinburgh’s fascinating history, literature heroes, infamous criminals and battles that shaped our city.

  • Hour Glass 1 Hour

Old Town & Underground Ghost Tour @ 13:15; 15:15; 17:15

The Old Town & Underground Ghost Tour will then take you on a guided tour of Edinburgh’s underground vaults, for close encounters with the paranormal!

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13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh in 2024 (local approved!)

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Perhaps you know that Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland?

Or that the original settlers in Scotland made a home on The Royal Mile?

But did you know that Edinburgh is one of the most haunted places in all of the UK? 

From ghosts to vampires and from witches to demons, the people of this city have long been tormented by a bloody and difficult past.

edinburgh scary tour

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best haunted Edinburgh tour is this World Famous Underground Ghost tour .

Click here to check prices and availability.

On these tours, you’ll learn about real-life Scots who lived and died in Edinburgh – often brutally. 

If you’re looking for a fun story, pleasant music, and cake – these tours aren’t for you.

But if you’re drawn to the darker side, we recommend booking today, including these Underground ghost tours in Edinburgh, Edinburgh tunnels ghost tour, and ghost walks in Edinburgh.

Ready to discover the best haunted tours Edinburgh has to offer?

Let’s dive in.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

1. the world famous underground ghost tour : best ghost tours in edinburgh.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 3,400+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 15 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

  • Evening walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town
  • Guide in costume and character
  • Suitable for families
  • Visit the eerie Greyfriars Kirkyard

Looking for a fun and spooky activity during your stay in Edinburgh?

Look no further than The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour , a great Edinburgh haunted tour.

There are 400 years of spooky goings on to explore on this epic Edinburgh vaults ghost tour, including underground vaults and alleyways .

As you walk through dark winding lanes and old courtyards, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for ghosts, witches, and demons.

Poltergeists, missing bodies, and a graveyard dog are the topics you’ll discuss as you stroll.

Your quirky tour guide is on hand throughout the event, and they’re easy to spot – they’ll be in a terrifying period costume .

On this tour you’ll visit Greyfriars Kirkyard – said to be the most haunted graveyard in the world.

Standing amongst the dead you’ll hear scary tales of Edinburgh’s dark past. 

Bring a camera with you if you wish.

Just be careful that you don’t startle a ghost!

2. Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 1,150+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

  • Admission ticket
  • Spend time underground in Edinburgh’s historic vaults
  • Hear stories of the inmates on this Edinburgh ghost walking tour

The Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh specializes in the city’s vast network of vaults and is one of the best haunted Edinburgh vaults tours.

These cells are steeped in hundreds of years of grizzly history and you’ll hear all about the dark tales and paranormal activity on this tour. 

Warning – this event isn’t for the easily disturbed.

You can expect to hear stories of real-life people who inhabited the vaults and speculate on where they are now.

You’ll also visit a torture exhibition and learn about how the inmates were put to death.

It makes you shiver just thinking about it!

You’ll start this activity on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile , a cobbled street with spooky architecture.

As you approach the vaults, expect to hear stories from Edinburgh’s days gone by.

Your guide is an expert in all things spooky and will take you from vault to vault sharing scary story after scary story. 

3. Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends : Edinburgh horror tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 2,800+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

  • Stops including North Bridge, Calton Hill, and Canongate Kirk
  • Walk the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town
  • Learn about witch trials, pagan rituals, and executions
  • Professional and knowledgeable tour guide

The Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends will give you the fright of your life.

Monsters, murder, body-snatchers, and vampires – this tour has it all. 

Your expert tour guide will take you to the spots where witch trials were conducted, inviting you to imagine how those chilling final moments must have felt.

You’ll also discuss the pagan rituals and executions that have made Scotland one of the world’s most haunted countries.

The tour is centered around urban myths, local monsters, and chilling stories.

You’ll visit multiple locations on this tour, including North Bridge, Calton Hill , Old Calton Burial Ground, and Canongate Kirk – each offering new stories that the tour company promise aren’t made-up.

Every story is about a real-life person and how they met their grizzly end.

4. Fright Night Tour : Edinburgh night ghost tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 600+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 15 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Tour guide in period costume on this Edinburgh scary tour!
  • Enjoy the Gothic splendor of Greyfriars Kirkyard
  • Real-life stories
  • Discover haunted streets

Fright Night Tour is calling on those brave enough to walk the spooky underground passages of Edinburgh.

Across 75 minutes, you’ll explore the slums and vaults of bygone times.

Expect to shiver as you hear twisted tales.

We’re confident that you’ll love this unique tour.

Your guide is dressed from head to toe in a creepy costume of a long-dead Edinburgh resident, which really adds to the fear factor.

The character they’re playing was a real-life person and you’ll hear spooky stories about their life as you venture through graveyards, tunnels, and vaults.

If your idea of a great night is hearing tales of murder, ghosts, and shadowy worlds, then this is the tour for you.

The evening tour is suitable for families – assuming that they’re brave enough to follow your tour guide through the cobbled lanes of this Scottish city.

5. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh : scariest ghost tour Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 550+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 20 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

  • Spooky atmosphere
  • Bloodcurdling accounts from Edinburgh’s history
  • Costumed guide
  • Tour of South Bridge vaults

Scream if you want to go faster!

The Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh is a one-and-a-half-hour treat that’ll shock and scare you.

You can expect to visit haunted graveyards , narrow side streets, and underground vaults that hold the secrets of the city’s dark history.

This tour is described as not appropriate for children, which means you can expect big jumps and spine-chilling stories.

Your costumed tour guide will describe tales of torture and murder.

It really is the stuff of nightmares!

The Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour starts late at night, making it the best tour for those hoping to see ghosts and other horrifying creatures.

Fans of small group tours, rejoice.

This event is limited to 15 people , meaning you’ll be part of a more intimate walking tour of Edinburgh’s bloody past.

6. Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh : the best ghostbus tour Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1,700+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 15 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

  • Transport by Routemaster bus on this Edinburgh ghost bus tour
  • Professional guide
  • Discover ghastly goings on from the city’s history
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Mile

The Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh offers tourists a unique way to journey through the city.

Atop a vintage double-decker bus , you’ll look down upon terrifying sites such as Grassmarket, the Royal Mile, and Greyfriars Kirk.

This is also one of the only tours to include Edinburgh Castle – one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Expect to hear stories of knights in shining armor. 

Being on a bus tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the city’s other most iconic attractions including the beautiful Palance of Holyrood House. 

You’ll be shocked by tales of misdeeds, sinister characters, and famous executions from a professional guide who is a master of storytelling. 

At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off in Edinburgh Old Town .

That’s convenient because believe us when we say – you’ll need a large beer to calm your nerves after this event.

7. Small Group Tour incl. Underground Vaults & Free Drink in Megget’s Cellar

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 350+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Edinburgh street at night with lamp

  • Award-winning local storytellers
  • Small group experience
  • Exclusive access to Blair Street underground vaults
  • Try a Scotch whisky

If you’re looking for a haunted tour with a little extra, consider booking onto this Small Group Tour incl. Underground Vaults & Free Drink in Megget’s Cellar .

You’ll be guided between Edinburgh’s darkest locations by an award-winning storyteller who will bring the stories of the dead to life on one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh.

You can expect gruesome stories of witchcraft, restless spirits, and shadowy characters.

As part of this experience, you’ll be granted access to Blair Street’s underground vaults , where you’ll hear about the prisoners who lived there and how they spent their final days.

Your meeting point – Mercat Cross – is a significant location, and you’ll discover what makes this monument so important.

Every member of the tour will be invited to sample a glass of Scotch whisky .

This is the perfect opportunity to make friends, ask questions, and shake off the spooky stories as you sip.

8. Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 560+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

  • Professional tour guide on one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh, Scotland
  • Night-time experience
  • Hear about troubled souls from Edinburgh’s past
  • Admission tickets included in price

What happens if you combine the chance to meet new people, go for a walk, and listen to spooky stories?

You get the Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh .

Walking around this famous city during the hours of darkness, you’ll squirm as you hear tales of the undead and explore the vaults on Nidry Street . 

Beggars, prostitutes, witches, and criminals – they’re all part of these breathtaking stories shared by your professional tour guide.

Your expert guide is clued up on the best spots in the city that are guaranteed to give you a fright. 

As part of a large group , you can expect to enjoy some safety in numbers – unless you have any ghosts or ghouls following you.

Remember to stay alert throughout this tour because there might be an opportunity or two to spot creatures of Edinburgh’s underworld.

9. Haunted Edinburgh: “The Bloody Past” Exploration Game

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 17+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

edinburgh scary tour

  • Full flexibility
  • Independent tour
  • Available 24/7
  • Explore Edinburgh’s haunted locations at your own pace

Being part of a walking tour isn’t for everybody.

Perhaps you’d like to explore haunted grounds at your own pace ?

Fortunately, Haunted Edinburgh: “The Bloody Past” Exploration Game was designed with you in mind.

You’ll embark on an independent quest through the city, following clues to find creepy locations.

You’ll be spoken to by a digital tour guide , who will share dark stories and bloodcurdling tales.

“The Bloody Past” Exploration Game is so much more than just a ghost tour. It’s also a history lesson.

You’ll learn about famous historical events like the Great Scottish Witch Hunts and the Burke and Hare murders.

Expect to encounter colorful characters like George Mackenzie and the Grey Lady.

If you’re a little slower on your feet or prefer to keep a distance from others during the pandemic, this is the tour for you. 

10. Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour – Auld Reekie After Hours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Edinburgh castle at night

  • Personal tour
  • Walking experience on the Royal Mile
  • Private guide
  • Learn about Scottish history’s creepier side

The Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour – Auld Reekie After Hours is a great option for those wanting to take pictures of historic spots.

That’s because it’s a private tour , meaning that it’ll just be your traveling party and your tour guide.

Unlike the other tours listed here, you’ll be the center of your tour guide’s attention and will be able to stop to take pictures without holding up other people.

From plagues to curses, this tour combines historical realities and urban myths to create a spooktacular experience that’s not for the faint of heart.

The tour is called Auld Reekie After Hours, which is the historic name given to the city of Edinburgh.

It translates to Old Smokey and paints a picture of narrow streets and tall buildings – which you’ll see on this once-in-a-lifetime tour.

11. Underground City of the Dead Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 120+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 20 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

London Jack the Ripper Tours

  • Local, expert guide
  • Go underneath the streets of Edinburgh
  • Daytime or nighttime tour
  • Learn about Edinburgh’s history of ghosts

There’s plenty of scary stuff going on above ground, but did you know that under the streets of Edinburgh are haunted happenings, ghostly goings on, and creepy characters?

The Underground City of the Dead Tour takes you under the street to explore stone cellars, dark corridors, and crumbling ruins .

You’ll start to sweat as you realize that these creepy locations were under your feet this whole time.

On this 80-minute experience , you’ll find an attentive tour guide who loves sharing stories and answering your burning questions.

There are two tour options to consider: daytime or nighttime.

For those more easily spooked, we recommend the daytime option.

But for those willing to face their demons, the nighttime event adds an extra level of fear.

Those hairs standing up on the back of your neck – we can’t confirm whether that’s just the cold or a ghoulish hand.

12. Scotland’s Dark Secrets Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

London Jack the Ripper Tours

  • Comprehensive tour of Edinburgh
  • Games and quizzes
  • A unique way to see the sights of Edinburgh

Setting off from the William Chambers Monument , you’ll learn about Deacon Broride – a cabinet-maker with a dark secret.

At Greyfriars Kirkyard, hear tales of prisons and plagues.

Moving to Grassmarket , you’ll discover the fishwife who refused to die.

We won’t ruin the rest of the stories – you’ll have to book onto the tour to find out more.

All we can say is that you should expect wizards, phantoms, and graverobbers.

Scotland’s Dark Secrets Walking Tour is headed by a trained guide with an immense knowledge of Edinburgh’s bloody past .

We guarantee they’ll captivate you for the whole two hours of this event. 

To keep younger people engaged, there are fun games and quizzes that you’ll play as you walk between locations.

It’s time to put your knowledge about spooky occurrences to the test.

13. Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 3,360+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Hidden underground vaults to explore
  • Hear tales of 18th-century Edinburgh
  • Explore places not often seen by tourists

So, you’re heading to Edinburgh?

Of course, you could wander the shopping district, dine on haggis in a local restaurant, or visit the Scottish Parliament building.

But instead, why not book onto an event like no other?

The Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh will show you a side of this famous city that you didn’t know existed.

You’ll meet your passionate tour guide at the Bank of Scotland, which will be your last calm moment for the next hour.

As you stroll through alleyways, expect to find out all about the city’s dark history.

Stories of deadly diseases and witchcraft await those brave enough to start walking.

Speaking of witches, you’ll stumble upon a hidden witchcraft temple on this tour.

Be warned – you may awaken spirits from their slumber.

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

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  • 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
  • 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
  • 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
  • 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
  • 17 Best London Foodie Tours
  • 11 Best London Biking Tours
  • 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
  • 11 Best Private Tours in London
  • 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
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  • 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
  • 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
  • 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
  • 7 Best Paris Tours from London
  • 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
  • 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
  • 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
  • 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system.

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

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  • 5 Edinburgh Ghost Tours (That Are Truly Worth it)

Edinburgh Ghost Tours Graveyard

Edinburgh is said to be one of the world’s most haunted cities.

Its mist-laden hills, cobbled streets, ancient buildings and subterranean vaults are a wonderful place to explore – during the day or after dark. 

And as you explore and learn more of the fascinating and at times gruesome history of this place, you can also keep your eyes peeled for any ghostly visitors that might still haunt the Old Town. 

You could definitely simply take matters into your own hands, and explore areas of the city where a haunting might occur. But to gain the most from visiting these spooky locations, you might want to consider taking one of these 5 Edinburgh ghost tours:

5. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour

5 edinburgh ghost tours you won’t want to miss, 1. small group edinburgh underground vaults and graveyard ghost tour.

This historically fascinating ghost-hunting tour will take you to two of the city’s most haunted locations – the shadow-shrouded subterranean world of Blair Street, and Canongate Kirkyard. 

  • Meeting Point: Mercat Cross High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, UK ( open in google maps )
  • Duration: 75 minutes
  • Cost: currently about $34 ( check current pricing here )
  • Free Cancellation: Yes!
  • Where to Book: Book on Viator.com (here )
  • Other: Adults-only (18+)

Blair Street Underground Vaults is a labyrinthine network of chambers below the South Bridge with a storied and at times horrific past. This is the place for an Edinburgh underground tour. 

Here, in 19 arches below the bridge, workshops, storage spaces and drinking establishments were abandoned and the seedy underbelly of the city moved in.

Brothels, gambling dens and moonshine distilleries were housed here, and it is believed that body-snatchers even used the dark spaces to store the corpses they stole. 

The rooms also housed some 2,000-3,000 of the city’s poorest residents – conditions were squalid and disease ran rife – until the city sealed off the vaults and they remained forgotten until the 1980s.  

After touring these eerie vaults you will weave your way to Canongate Kirkyard – a huge cemetery where you can keep your eyes peeled for spectres and ghouls wondering through the darkness.

As you explore these two locations your guide will regale you with a commentary filled with gruesome tales of cannibalism, torture and witchcraft and you can find the final resting places – or not – of a number of famous Scots. 

2. Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh

This Edinburgh Walking Tour is one of the best ghost tours in the city! And the most popular on our list .

  • Meeting Point: Tourist information police box across the road from Brodie’s tavern
  • Where to Book: Viator.com

Starting at the tourist information police box across the road from Brodie’s tavern, this terrifying adults-only tour will take you on a 75 minute tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town after dark, culminating in a visit to the gruesome Torture museum, for which entry is included in the price. 

As on the tour above you will enter the notorious city vaults, see St Giles cathedral by night, and hear of the Tolbooth Prison and the troubled souls who were held there, with your professional guide. 

The Old Tolbooth was a mediaeval structure that has served a number of different purposes over the centuries. It was the main jail here where not only incarceration but also physical punishments and torture were routinely conducted, and from 1785, this was the site of public executions. The buildings were demolished in 1817 but who is to say whether or not some ghosts or ghouls may linger here on this site…

Then you will have the opportunity to enter the terrifying Torture Museum.

Is your stomach strong enough to handle the tales of brutal torture in times gone by and to learn how the devices you will see were used? 

3. Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

This popular Ghost and Gore Walking Tour is perfect if you are looking for an early evening tour that is a bit more family friendly then this is one of the Edinburgh ghost tours might be a fun option to consider.

  • Meeting Point: Outside the Witchery restaurant just before 7pm
  • Duration: 80 minutes
  • Cost: currently about $16 ( check current pricing here )
  • Where to Book: Book on Viator.com (here)

Light-hearted yet informative, this 80 minute walking tour of the historic Royal Mile is full of fun and frolics. 

Meeting outside the Witchery restaurant just before 7pm, you will be guided by a former city cemetery director, mr Alexander Clapperton (deceased) and will meet a number of infamous apparitions along the way such as the mad monk of Cowgate, a witch called Agnes Fynnie, and bloody Highlander Rhuari McLeod. The tour includes a copy of ‘The Witchery Tales’ by Adam Lyal. 

Enjoy a fiendishly funny outing that will be enjoyed by the whole family as you walk the cobbled streets and courtyards of Edinburgh’s old town and are jumped out at by a host of different characters (typically played by the same person). 

4. Two Hour Ghost Tour

Back on the more serious side, this almost two hour long ghost tour starts and ends on High Street, Edinburgh. This is one of many Edinburgh walking tours that will allow you to explore the Old Town and learn more about its dark yet fascinating history. 

Quick Info:

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Cost: currently about $19 ( check current pricing here )
  • Meeting Point: 190 High Street, Edinburgh
  • Highlights: Edinburgh Old Town (after dark), High Street, Old Calton Burial Ground and more

Beginning at 6pm, it will lead you through Edinburgh’s Old Town where you can explore hidden closes and find out about the gruesome things that have gone on there over the centuries.

During this tour you will have the experienced narrative from your informative guide to help you navigate the history and wynds of this old part of the city. 

You will also have the opportunity to visit Old Calton Burial Ground – where the Scottish philosopher David Hume as well as several other notable Scots are buried. Atop Calton Hill , to the north east of the city centre, this burial ground was opened in 1718 and offers not only ghost-watching opportunities but also panoramic views over the city. 

Another option for adults who want to explore and go ghost hunting around the Old Town is this well-organised example, with stops in the Greyfriars cemetery as well as the underground vaults mentioned above.

If you are looking for an Edinburgh vaults tour with something a little extra this is one of many options to consider. 

  • Meeting Point:
  • Cost: currently about $25 ( check the most up to date pricing here )
  • Highlights: Visit Edinburgh’s most haunted graveyard (after dark), underground vaults
  • Where to Book: Book on Getyourguide.com (here)

Burials have been taking place at Greyfriars Kirkyard since the late 16 th Century. A number of notable Edinburgh residents are buried there.

Greyfriars takes its name from a Franciscan friary which used to be on the site. The graveyard is best known for Greyfriar’s bobby, a loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave, sleeping there for 14 years. 

This tour will take you to this haunted graveyard, then on through many wynds above the ground and the vaults below, in the presence of a theatrical and entertaining guide who will be dressed in appropriate costume for the evening. 

Edinburgh Ghost Tours Graveyard

Even if you don’t actually see any ghosts on one of the Edinburgh walking tours above, you should still have a wonderful time. 

Other Top Rated Ghost Tours in Edinburgh that are not included in this list:

  • Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour – read reviews here.

READ MORE ON SCOTLAND:

Traveling to Scotland was a dream come true. These are my most popular blog posts on Scotland to help you plan your trip.

  • 21 Romantic Things to do in Edinburgh for Couples  – I’m sure your not surprised that I had trouble cutting down this list because there are SO many romantic things to do in Edinburgh.
  • Best Harry Potter Tours in Edinburgh! – These tours will not disappoint Harry Potter fans
  • Best Castles in Scotland : You can’t go to Scotland and not add these epic castles to your itinerary.
  • Top 10 Things to do in Scotland: My absolute favorite places included in this guide!
  • 6 Best Edinburgh Food Tours
  • Where to see the Heather in Scotland: Must see guide!
  • Best Things to do in Stirling Scotland : One of my favorite small towns just outside of Edinburgh.
  • 10 Unique Things to Know About Scotland’s Culture
  • Edinburgh or Glasgow, Which City in Scotland Should You Visit? – A guide to the two main Scottish Cities – Edinburgh or Glasgow?
  • 28 Mind Blowing Photos Of Scotland

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10 Edinburgh Ghost Tours That Will Freak You Out

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This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Do you want to learn about the spooky side of Edinburgh ? Then check out our selection of the best Edinburgh ghost tours! 

These tours will take you on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most haunted locations and tell you all about the weird and creepy stories behind them. From mysterious murder scenes to hauntings by the paranormal, these tours are sure to give you a good scare.

Luckily, I’ve spent lots of time in Edinburgh while studying abroad in Europe for five months and have compiled the perfect list of Edinburgh ghost tours just for you.

Table of Contents

Top Picks: Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

cobblestone street surrounded by old buildings

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

✅ 1 hour 15 min tour

✅ Immersive guide

✅ Explore Old Town

picturesque street with colorful buildings in the spring

Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

✅ Bus tour on a double-decker bus

✅ 1 hour long

✅ See top landmarks

stone arch leading into greyfriars kirkyard

Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour

✅ 1 hour 20 mins

✅ Ideal for fans of the supernatural (not for children)

✅ Small group size

Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour 15 minutes | ⚡ Book now

outside view of historic church in edinburgh

This Edinburgh scary tour is one of the most popular to book in the city! It lasts a little over an hour long and explores Edinburgh’s dark past through an evening tour that touches all of the spookiness you don’t know about the city yet.

Throughout the tour, you’ll stop at places like Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Edinburgh Vaults, the Royal Mile, and more throughout Old Town. Because of the tour’s content, everyone must be above the age of 5, though it is a family-friendly tour.

Along the way, you’ll hear mysterious stories about the city’s past, including hauntings! Plus, the tour guide dresses up in a way that will really make you feel like you’re going back in time.

FREE TRAVEL QUIZ

⭐️ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour | ⚡ Book now

Next is another of the great Edinburgh haunted tours, a ghost bus tour! This is definitely a more unique way to go around the city and explore some of its haunted past. Similar to the underground ghost tour in Edinburgh above, this ghost bus tour is just about an hour long.

The tour includes a bus tour and a professional guide and departs from Edinburgh Lawnmarket near Deacon Brodies Tavern. Along the tour, you’ll pass by some popular spots in the city, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Old Town, Greyfriars Kirkyard, Grassmarket, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Even though the tour is supposed to be creepy, the tour guide often infuses lots of humor into the tour, making it one that will stand out amongst the rest. Think of it more like comedy horror!

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour and 20 minutes | ⚡ Book now

view of edinburgh from above on sunny day

Another of the best Edinburgh ghost tours is this extreme paranormal underground ghost tour! It’s slightly shorter than an hour and a half long and includes Edinburgh’s Old Town, the South Bridge vaults, and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Unlike some of the other tours on this list, this ghost tour in Edinburgh isn’t great for children or those who can’t handle hearing about the grueling history. However, it’s perfect for those who love the supernatural and want to learn more about Edinburgh’s spooky past.

As you might expect, the tour guide gets all dressed up for the occasional, and the tour is at night. So, you’ll genuinely be exploring Edinburgh at its creepiest, and who knows, maybe you’ll even find a ghost or two along the way!

Fright Night Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour and 15 minutes | ⚡ Book now

This tour might just be the best Edinburgh ghost tour! It’s roughly an hour and fifteen minutes long and includes spots along the creepiest places throughout Edinburgh. Plus, your guide narrates the entire thing while dressed like a historical person of Edinburgh who has died!

Another great thing about this tour is that it is actually suitable for families, unlike some other tours on this list. Of course, make sure the younger children are okay with at least being a little frightened along the way.

The majority of the tour is along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town. You’ll also descend into the underground vaults that you’ve probably heard about in Edinburgh!

Edinburgh Dark History Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ⚡ Book now

headstone inlaid in stone wall

This ghost walk Edinburgh is perfect for those who want a bit of a longer tour during their trip to the city! It’s around two hours long and, just like other tours on this list, includes tons of stops throughout Edinburgh Old Town.

Some of the stops along the way include Cannongate Graveyard, St. Giles Cathedral, Mercat Cross, and The Heart of the Midlothian. Of course, as you see each of these attractions, you’ll get to hear all about the history of what you’re looking at from your guide.

The tour guides for this tour, in particular, are known for being so informative, and they will answer absolutely any question that you ask.

Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour

grassy hill from city below

If you want a dark side of Edinburgh ghost tour, you’re in luck! This tour is approximately two hours long and even includes learning about local monster stories. What more could you possibly want?

It’s a walking tour and has stops at Calton Hill, North Bridge, Royal Mile, Canongate Kirk, and Old Calton Burial Ground. These are stops that some of the other Edinburgh ghost tours don’t necessarily include stops at, making this one very unique.

The tour normally starts in the evening right along The Royal Mile. The tour guide will provide tons of information and creepy stories that will keep you up at night between each stop along the way!

Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1.5 hours | ⚡ Book now

old church on royal mile in edinburgh

This is a great Edinburgh ghost walking tour that’s super affordable! It’s only about an hour and a half long but is super unique because the guide dresses up to the nines as a historic Edinburgh citizen named Alexander Clapperton.

You’ll learn all about ghosts, gravediggers, witches, and more along the tour. You’ll also get a copy of The Witchery Tales by Adam Lyal with your tour, so you can continue your historic studies even after the tour ends.

Spots on the tour include pretty much everything there is to see in Old Town. It’s incredibly interactive and fun for all ages, primarily because they work to bring all of the characters to life in a great way.

Afternoon Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour | ⚡ Book now

close up view of gravestone in greyfriars kirkyard

This is a super small group tour that’s maxed out at six guests, which makes it a lot more intimate experience than you may have at other tours on this list! Throughout the tour, you’ll learn all about Scotland’s dark history.

Another great thing about this tour is that it’s family-friendly and takes place during the afternoon instead of at night, so if you want to hear creepy stories without being in the dark, then this is the tour for you.

Like other tours, you’ll explore Edinburgh’s Old Town, including the underground vaults. The tour is about an hour long and is a perfect way to break up your Edinburgh itinerary, especially if you’re only there for a day or two.

Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults and Graveyard Ghost Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour and 45 minutes | ⚡ Book now

historic castle from below

This small-group tour is perfect for those who are obsessed with all things supernatural! This is another of the Edinburgh ghost tours that are a bit longer, as it’s just shy of two hours long. It leaves in the evening from central Edinburgh and includes many spots along the way.

The tour starts right at the Blair Street Vaults and then continues on to the Royal Mile, Canongate Kirk, St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh Old Town, and Mercat Cross. The stories include tales of interesting Scottish figures like James Douglas.

This is an adult-only tour, so only those over 18 years old are allowed to go on this tour. The tour is also offered year-round, so even if you visit in the dead of winter, this tour should still be available to book. The tour has a maximum of eighteen people so that you can hear the guide easily along the tour.

Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1.5 hours | ⚡ Book now

Last but not least is this haunted vaults and graveyard tour that lasts about an hour and a half. It includes tons of spooky stories that you’ll hear as it starts to get darker over Edinburgh, just adding to the creepiness.

The tour includes stops at Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, the Nidry Street Vaults, and more. Due to the nature and topic of the tour, it’s only open to those who are over the age of five. It’s a bit of a larger tour with around thirty people, but it’s still small enough that you’ll be able to hear the tour guide.

Historically, this has been a very popular tour among those visiting Edinburgh for the first time. So, if you’ve never visited Edinburgh before, then this is a great tour to book to get a bit more acquainted with the city!

Final Thoughts: Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

This post was all about the best Edinburgh ghost tours, so hopefully, you found the perfect spooky tour to book for your next trip to Scotland. Don’t forget to save this post and share it later in case others want to book a tour too!

Watch our vlog all about our 24 hours in Edinburgh!

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KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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6 Spooky Edinburgh Ghost Tours All Year Round

This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.

Looking for the most frightful Edinburgh ghost tours available all year round? This guide details the best options on foot, visiting the most ghastly dark spots around the city and underground, if you dare! There’s even an option to learn about Edinburgh’s haunting characters by bus, a bus that carried dead bodies nonetheless. So let’s hop aboard the guide to ghost tours in Edinburgh and find out how to book.

Visiting for spooky season? Don’t miss our guide to Edinburgh in autumn , things to do for Hallowe’en and historic hotels .

Edinburgh’s Scariest Ghost Tours

1. the witchery tour.

One of Edinburgh’s most popular ghost tours is hosted by the award-winning The Cadies & Witchery Tour.

Your tour guide is the deceased Edinburgh Cemetery Director Alexander Clapperton from the 1840s. As you can probably tell, this ghost walk offers a lighthearted take on the tales of the city.

This Old Town Edinburgh tour covers the topics of torture, the plague, witchcraft and invasion.

It also introduces you to some of the best known Edinburgh legends whom we’ve documented here if you want to show off your knowledge!

Deacon Brodiies Bar Pub Old Town Edinburgh

The 80-minute tour starts at 7 pm and with prices from £15, you must book this online to avoid disappointment.

Included in the price is a copy of the bestselling ‘Witchery Tales’ book, some casual bedtime reading for Edinburgh dark tourism fans!

Statue of 5th Duke of Buccleuch St Giles Royal Mile Old Town Edinburgh -Alamy-Statue of 5th Duke of Buccleuch St Giles Cathedral Edinburgh Old Town Royal Mile_

2. Ghost Walk in Edinburgh

Did you know that Edinburgh was famous for body snatching?

Two famous grave diggers feature heavily in Edinburgh’s dark past and they go by the names of Burke and Hare. The two Irish men were infamous for creeping into the dark of night and acquiring dead bodies for the likes of the popular Physician Dr Knox.

Some of the bodies were a little too fresh for onlookers liking and eventually the pair were caught out. You can learn more about Burke and Hare and many other stories during this tour which takes you into an Old Town cemetery!

Meeting point is in front of Frankie & Benny’s, 130 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1QS by Tron Kirk at 6:30pm but you must book ahead you can’t just turn up.

Look for the guides with red t-shirts and red umbrellas with the local tour operator’s logo. Children under 13 are accepted if accompanied by an adult at no cost.

This tour is not suitable for those with limited mobility or pushchairs.

Canongate Kirk Edinburgh Royal Mile

3. Edinburgh Ghost Tours Underground

Since the original Edinburgh’s walled city was tiny, there was nowhere for the ever increasing population to spread out. The solution? Dig below.

Now only brave souls visit Edinburgh’s underground and they can only do so with a guided South Bridge vaults tour.

This underground tour takes you to Edinburgh’s Vaults at South Bridge.

The Vaults stink of damp and are crowded with stalactites formed by the city’s dregs so don’t open your mouth when you look up!

Underground Vault Gated Window Tour

By candlelight, you’ll hear stories about the spirits that lurk down below so be careful because there are numerous cases of poltergeist activity reported.

We’ve done a few of the underground vaults tours as each tour operator owns their own area and this tour is by far the best one of balancing information, entertainment and scare tactics!

A unique thing about this tour compared to others is that within their vault there is a temple and rock circle created by The Source Coven Of The Blue Dragon.

Underground Vault Stone Ring Tours

Meeting point is at the phone box across from the Deacon Brodies pub. Remember your pre-booked eticket.

Booking online is a must from £18 per person.

For more details, check out our review of this underground vaults tour .

4. Free Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

If you are looking for a free ghost tour, then this one is on every night in Edinburgh and takes you through the dark and gruesome history of Edinburgh.

Meeting at 7pm at 153 High Street, this 1 and a half hour tour will chill you to your bones. You must book online .

Warning – free tours are never free. It is expected that you pay by tip at the end of the tour.

5. Edinburgh Night Ghost Tours

This is an adults only tour which says it all!

Funny yet frightening, a walk around the Old Town ends in a tour of the South Bridge Vaults and an Old Town cemetery.

Booking online is a must.

Book here from only £20 per person and remember – this is only for the bravest of you!

Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh

6. Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour

This tour is honestly one of the funnest tours in Edinburgh. Customers alight the midnight black bus on the Royal Mile and take their seat where dead bodies were once stored. The guide, who has a touch of the theatrics, introduces you to your dubious bus driver who spins you around the city on six wheels.

Ghost Bus Edinburgh Tour

Hold on to your hats though, funny going-ons are known to take place on this vintage Routemaster bus!

There’s a 10-minute stop at St Cuthbert’s Church with a walk through the city graveyard.

Highly recommended by Everything Edinburgh.

Ghost Bus Inside Edinburgh Tour

Other Edinburgh Dark Tourism Guides

  • Spooky thing to do in Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh’s Haunting Legends and Where to Find Them
  • Edinburgh in Autumn: Things to Do, See and Eat
  • Every Harry Potter location muggles can’t miss
  • Bonfire Night in Edinburgh & Story of Guy Fawkes

Looking for the best Edinburgh ghost tours? These (mostly) walking tours give you a fright and a offer a bit of fun in Edinburgh's Old Town. Visit the spooky cemetries and meet the city's characters during these darks tours of Edinburgh.

Essential Edinburgh Information 

Food & drink in Edinburgh Best time to visit Edinburgh Things to do in Edinburgh How much does Edinburgh cost? Free 7-day Scotland itinerary

Plan Your Trip To Edinburgh 

Book accommodation at Booking.com Reserve a skip the line pass or guided tour at GetYourGuide Save money with this Edinburgh Pass

Owner of Everything Edinburgh, the friendly resource for visitors and locals. Gemma adores Edinburgh's cafes, pub crawls, live gigs, and city tours. She still mourns the death of Espionage nightclub.

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Auld Reekie Tours

We offer tours through edinburgh’s most extensive set of vaults & are the only ghost & history tours company with authentic links to witchcraft..

edinburgh scary tour

Christmas & Hogmanay Opening times

Christmas Edinburgh Vaults Hogmanay Opening Hours South Bridge Vaults Winter Solstice Yule

Friday 24th November

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E-gift vouchers for your loved ones.

Christmas Edinburgh Vaults Gift Gift Voucher South Bridge Vaults Winter Solstice Yule

NOW HIRING – We are looking for actors and actresses to deliver history and ghost tours.

Special Offer Tickets – 4 PEOPLE FOR £70 on all regular public tours *

edinburgh scary tour

Magical Potter Tour

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays + Monday 1st April

£20 per person, £70 for 4 people

edinburgh scary tour

The Vaults Tour

Not suitable for under 5s

edinburgh scary tour

The Vaults & Graveyard Tour

Not suitable for under 12s

£24 per person, £70 for 4 people

edinburgh scary tour

The Terror Tour

Strictly over 18s only

Daily from Friday 22nd March

edinburgh scary tour

Haunted Vaults Tour

Until Thursday 21st March 2024.

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Auld Reekie Tours e-gift voucher

edinburgh scary tour

Hire Our Vaults Overnight

Our vaults are now available to hire overnight for investigations, ghost hunts and film locations. Maximum 35 people and proof of public liability insurance required.

TIMES: 00:00 – 06:00

“We did the underground vaults tour and we thought it was amazing. Was great to walk down the Royal Mile and learn some gruesome facts about the way these people used to live. Seeing the torture devices was also extremely interesting. I definitely recommend this tour!”

“Some great information on the history of Edinburgh and the locations toured. It was interesting to hear the spooky stories behind even the most unassuming of streets. The access to the vaults was also enjoyable. I would recommend going at night for extra fun.”

“Any time I travel to somewhere new, my partner and I love to do a ghost tour. We were recommended this tour by a family member and it really did not disappoint! We were totally spooked and had a laugh at the same time. The tour itself was very informative with comedic and spooky aspects as well, making it extremely entertaining and worth the money.”

“Great tour with some (a little creepy ????) facts and figures about the Royal Mile and the South bridge vaults. Great atmosphere with a fun and knowledgeable guide.”

“The vaults tour is worth it, the guide was super entertaining and the whole experience was creepy, insightful and fascinating. Must go!”

IMPORTANT: We don’t take bookings at the tour start, please make sure to book in advance online or visit our office at 45 Niddry Street.

Have questions?

Office Opening Times: Daily 10:00 – 17:00

0131 557 4700

[email protected]

edinburgh scary tour

edinburgh scary tour

Best Edinburgh ghost tours: Top underground and haunted walking tours to do in 2024

These top Edinburgh ghost tours are sure to get your spine tingling this winter.

A tunnel in Edinburgh.

  • Laura Wybrow
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With January's long evenings, chilly weather and crisp breeze, it's hard to think of a more perfect time of year for a ghost tour...

Plenty of UK cities host ghost tours, but why is Edinburgh the most famous? The fondly named Jekyll and Hyde City is home to some of the most haunted places in the world. Its landmarks have been around for centuries, and have certainly seen some dark things over the years.

There’s Greyfriars Kirkyard, located in the old town, which witnessed countless religious persecutions in the 17th century, and Edinburgh’s Royal Mile bears over 400 years of history.

Perhaps one of the most ghostly places is the Edinburgh Vaults. When the city expanded in the 18th century, many inhabitants were forced to seek refuge underneath it in the vaults. Living underground is (unsurprisingly) bad for your health, and when people began to die, the infamous Burke and Hare would visit to claim their corpses.

If you dare to visit these spooky Edinburgh locations, prepare to potentially see or hear from the restless souls that inhabit them. There have been reports of voices, children screaming, moving shadows, sudden drops in temperature and more unexplained phenomena.

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As well as scary stories and potential sightings, our hand-selected Edinburgh ghost tours are jam-packed with history. You’ll visit some of the most famous and historic sites in the world, and come away with plenty of knowledge about the city’s dark past – because if you’re going to spend money on a tour, you want it to be worthwhile. The RadioTimes.com team knows you’ll want to get the most out of experiences; that’s why we do plenty of digging to find the best ones.

We’ve put together guides to the best London walking tours , best London scavenger hunts and UK Harry Potter tours , too.

Plus, we like to review the things we recommend, so be sure to take a look at our 2:22 A Ghost Story review , what is Frameless ? guide, and BBC Earth Experience review .

  • Best Edinburgh ghost tours at a glance

Best Edinburgh ghost tours to visit in 2024

Best way to travel to edinburgh, best places to stay in edinburgh, best edinburgh ghost tours at a glance:.

  • Edinburgh - Dark History, from £14
  • The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour, from £17
  • Fright Night Tour, from £18
  • Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour - Auld Reekie After Hours, from £18.75
  • Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh, from £20
  • The Edinburgh Dungeon, £25 £20.50 (save £4.50 or 18%)
  • Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends, from £20.97
  • Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh, from £21
  • Ghostly Edinburgh Underground Vault Tour for Two, £40
  • Hidden and Haunted Edinburgh Tour for Two, £40

The Edinburgh Dungeon

edinburgh dungeon best uk dungeons

These tours aren’t for the faint-hearted, but if you’ve made it this far, you’re probably not afraid of things that go bump in the night. So for a truly terrifying evening, step right this way, please…

We couldn't start this ghost tour guide without first mentioning The Edinburgh Dungeon. The dungeon features a mix of live actors and special effects in a range of terrifying rooms such as The Torture Chamber, The Courtroom, and The Anatomy Theatre, plus the Drop Dead ride. It goes without saying that this experience isn't for the faint hearted.

Buy The Edinburgh Dungeon tickets for £25 £20.50 (save £4.50 or 18%) at daysout.co.uk

Take a look at the best UK dungeons for the top dungeons up and down the country, from Blackpool to London.

Edinburgh - Dark History

A dimly-lit street in Edinburgh

This tour isn’t built on speculation; there are no ghostly stories of apparent happenings and definitely no actors jumping out from behind buildings in spooky costumes — everything you hear is from Edinburgh’s sinister history. You’ll listen to stories of murderers, thieves, cannibals, decapitations, witches, and the plague.

Buy Edinburgh - Dark History from £14 at Viator

For the best London bus tours (spooky or otherwise), take a look at our best list.

Fright Night Tour

A man in a dungeon looking spooky

Who said you can only get spooked at Halloween? This Fright Night Tour focuses on the 18th century slums, wynds and vaults of Edinburgh, with a special trip to a graveyard. The 75-minute tour covers everything from historical and ghoulish tales to folklore and mysteries.

Buy Fright Night Tour from £18 at Viator

For more spooky activities, take a look at the best escape rooms , best UK Halloween events , and the best UK zombie experiences .

Ghostly Edinburgh Underground Vault Tour for Two

People in a dimly-lit cave

Behind the picturesque scenery of Edinburgh’s old town is a dark and gloomy history. As you explore the old town and Royal Mile, you’ll hear stories of unsettled ghosts, rampant crime and diabolical conditions from a seasoned ghost tour guide. Once you’ve explored the spooky happenings above ground, you’ll head down into the famously haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults.

Buy Ghostly Edinburgh Underground Vault Tour for Two for £40 at Virgin Experience Days

For more terrifying events, take a look at how to get Fright Night tickets and Scarefest tickets — two Halloween events at the UK's top theme parks.

Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

A skeleton looking out of a bus window

Looking for something that goes bump in the night? Oh, our bad, that was just a speed bump. This next ghost tour is one with a twist: it’s on a bus. From your seat on a vintage double-decker bus, you’ll hear chilling tales while looking at historic sites like Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket and the Royal Mile. It beats listening to a podcast on public transport, that’s for sure!

Buy Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh from £21 at Viator

If you're based in London, be sure to check out these top experiences in the capital city such as best VR experiences and the best immersive experiences .

Plus, did you know the Balloon Museum (as seen in Emily in Paris) has come to London?

Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends

A general overview of Edinburgh city

Think you know a lot about Edinburgh’s ghastly history? Think again. This walking tour uncovers stories of witch trials, pagan rituals and executions, and you’ll visit the sites where these gruesome happenings took place. The evening tour also takes you to either the famous Old Calton Burial Ground or the Canongate Kirkyard cemetery.

Buy Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends from £20.97 at Viator

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Hidden and Haunted Edinburgh Tour for Two

A street in Edinburgh at night

To hear truly gruesome and terrifying stories, this tour from Virgin Experience Days is the one for you - because if you were faint-hearted, you wouldn’t be looking for haunted tours! The Blair Street Underground Vaults are home to some of the darkest stories and with this experience, you’ll hear about the characters who once lived there and which souls still haunt the vaults today.

Buy Hidden and Haunted Edinburgh Tour for Two for £40 at Virgin Experience Days

This haunted tour for two is a unique experience to spend with your loved one. For more date night activities, check out the best couple's experience days and best London date ideas .

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

A ghostly figure standing in an underground tunnel

This ghost tour is world famous for a reason: a seasoned tour guide will take you around Greyfriars Kirkyard and the old town, as well as through the underground vaults and wynds to uncover ghost stories. You’ll stop at various haunted locations throughout the tour to potentially hear and see paranormal activity.

Buy The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour from £16 at Viator

Stay up to date with our Going Out section for great activities to do across the country, such as the best candlelight concerts , the top UK driving experiences , and the best UK water sports .

Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

People in an underground tunnel

With a late departure time of 9:15pm and a 15-person limit per group, this 90-minute walking tour is perfect for paranormal fans as everything will seem more intense and vivid. You’ll hear gruesome stories of torture, murder and body snatching, and visit the underground vaults. Although some of the above tours are suitable for the whole family, this one, unsurprisingly, isn’t.

Buy Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh from £20 at Viator

Phew! After all that ghost hunting, you'll probably want to book yourself in for some R&R. We have the best London spa experiences for you.

Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour - Auld Reekie After Hours

A look through a ruined wall at Edinburgh Castle

If there’s something specific you’d like to hear about, then this private tour is perfect for you. All tours have customisable content, duration and routes, so the guide can focus on aspects of Edinburgh’s creepy history that you’re most interested in.

Buy Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour - Auld Reekie After Hours from £18.75 at Viator

Think you could solve a murder? Then take a look at the best murder mystery experiences .

Whether you're travelling to Edinburgh from London, Manchester, Newcastle or another UK city, you'll want your trip to the Scottish capital to be relatively straightforward and painless (with as few changes as possible, please!). We've put together a guide on how to travel to Edinburgh, and if you're planning on staying a night or two in the historic city, we've also hand-picked some accommodation.

What is the easiest way to get to Edinburgh?

If you're travelling to Edinburgh from a nearby city, such as Liverpool, Glasgow or Newcastle, the easiest way to get to the Scottish capital is by train.

Edinburgh has two mainline train stations: Edinburgh Waverley, which is in the city centre, and Haymarket Station, which is in the West End. For these ghost tours, we recommend travelling to Edinburgh Waverley.

The TransPennine Express connects northern locations like Manchester, Preston, Leeds, York and Newcastle to Edinburgh, with the LNER also providing services from Newcastle, York, Leeds and Aberdeen. If you're travelling from somewhere else in Scotland, Scotrail is your best bet as it operates a full schedule of trains throughout Scotland. For more southern cities, such as Birmingham and Coventry, Virgin Rail will get you to Edinburgh.

If possible, it's best to book an 'off-peak' ticket to save a few pennies. 'Off-peak' is any time outside of the busiest travelling times, so commuting hours and weekends. Plus, a Railcard is a guaranteed way to save a third on the price of a train fare. For more money saving tips when travelling by train (and the RadioTimes.com team have them in abundance!) check out our how to get cheap train tickets guide.

Buy a Railcard at Trainline

To help you do the things you love for less, the Going Out team have put together guides on how to get Disneyland Paris tickets , how to get cheap cinema tickets , and how to get cheap LEGOLAND tickets , plus plenty more.

What is the best way to get from London to Edinburgh?

One of the RadioTimes.com team travelled from London Victoria to Edinburgh Bus Station when they visited the Fringe Festival last summer. It took 12 hours and was pretty uncomfortable. However, it was incredibly cheap, so it's worth bearing in mind that if you're on a tight budget, Megabus and National Express offer coach rides to Edinburgh.

There is, of course, an LNER train service from London to Edinburgh which takes approximately five hours. But if you'd prefer to do something a little more special, why not opt for a trip on the Caledonian Sleeper? The Caledonian Sleeper is an overnight service which operates between Euston and Edinburgh, so you can go to sleep in London and wake up in Edinburgh!

Buy Caledonian Sleeper tickets at Trainline

If you're travelling from London (or from somewhere equally as far afield) to Edinburgh, then you'll probably want to make a few days of it.

Wowcher is fantastic for finding the best discounts and offers on top Edinburgh accommodation, including four and five star hotels. Plus, a lot of the deals include added perks like afternoon tea, Prosecco and chocolates (an upgrade on the one chocolate on the pillow!). Take a look at some of our suggestions below:

  • Mercure Edinburgh stay for Two with breakfast and wine for £270 £149 (save £121 or 45%) at Wowcher

If you liked this guide then be sure to take a look at some of our others, including the best London theatre shows and the top London boat tours .

Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now . For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast .

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IMAGES

  1. The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh, Scotland

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  2. Edinburgh Ghost Tours

    edinburgh scary tour

  3. 12 Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours (Vaults, Graveyards and more)

    edinburgh scary tour

  4. Edinburgh's Haunted Underground Vaults

    edinburgh scary tour

  5. Edinburgh: Haunted Underground City Tour

    edinburgh scary tour

  6. Edinburgh: Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour: Haunted

    edinburgh scary tour

COMMENTS

  1. THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Ghost Tours (Updated 2024)

    These experiences are best for ghost & vampire tours in Edinburgh: Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh; The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour; Haunted Vaults walking tour in Edinburgh; Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh; Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends; See more ghost & vampire tours in Edinburgh on Tripadvisor

  2. CITY OF THE DEAD TOURS

    World Famous, Award Winning, Underground City & Haunted Graveyard Tours ... 'One of Edinburgh's top 10 Attractions' by USA Today and 'Edinburgh's Best Ghost Tour' by Lonely Planet. Short-listed for the prestigious Screamie Awards (3 times), winner of ScareTour's 'Best Ghost Tour Award', recommended for the last 10 years by ...

  3. The 13 Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh (Updated 2024)

    1. Auld Reekie Tours. Head down to Edinburgh's haunted vaults by taking the Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour. This is one of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh and offers a unique experience as you head into the vaults. The Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour begins with a walk around Edinburgh's historic Old Town, where you will hear tales ...

  4. Underground City of the Dead

    Contact details. +44 (0131) 2259044. View tour details. [email protected]. Black Hart Entertainment/City of the Dead Tours. City of the Dead Sign (or the tree with our plaque) on the pavement at the side of St Giles' Cathedral. Parliament Square. Royal Mile. Midlothian.

  5. The Original Edinburgh Ghost Tours

    The award-winning Cadies & Witchery Tours invite you to join our fearless phantoms for a suspenseful and mirth-filled walking tour of Edinburgh's Old Town. Step back a few hundred years as Alexander Clapperton (deceased) and his spooky chums bring the Capital's grisly past vividly to life.. The Ghosts & Gore Tour. A gentle early-evening walk, meeting some frightful but friendly ghosts with ...

  6. THE TOP 10 Edinburgh Ghost Tours (w/Prices)

    Journey through Edinburgh's grisliest tales on a haunted walking tour. Experience the ghastly histories of monsters, madness, and murder that cast a dark shadow on the capital city. Discover the stories and sites of witch trials, pagan rituals, and executions, and hear about local monsters that live in urban myth.

  7. 12 Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours (Vaults, Graveyards and more)

    Recognised as one of the most haunted cities in the world if taking a ghost tour of Edinburgh is a must-have inclusion during your visit to the Scottish capital (it was for my husband who enjoyed a Vaults Tour while I explored the Old City above ground) you will find our comparison guide to the best tours invaluable for choosing the best one for you.

  8. The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

    Here are the best ghost tours in Edinburgh to help you make the most out of your next visit: 1. City of the Dead. City of the Dead is one of the top-rated ghost tours in Edinburgh. This tour takes you through the underground vaults that were used as storage space and workshops for businesses in the 1780s. The vaults were then abandoned in 1795 ...

  9. The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour (Mar 2024)

    Walk through the Old Town's distinctive closes, wynds and secluded squares. Visit the world-famous, eerie, unforgettable Greyfriars Kirkyard. Hear terrifying stories of hauntings, murders, executions and cannibalism. 6.45pm Evening tour is suitable for families. Travel back in time and descend into our section of underground street.

  10. THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Ghost Tours (Updated 2024)

    These experiences are best for ghost & vampire tours in Edinburgh: Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh; The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour; Haunted Vaults walking tour in Edinburgh; Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends; Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh; See more ghost & vampire tours in Edinburgh on Tripadvisor

  11. 8 Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh (incl. Night+Underground)

    Duration: 2 hours Price: from £21 Why you should take it: great tour with a mix of laughs and spooky vibes; There is definitely an abundance of things to do in this city, but given its reputation, ghost bus tours should be the first thing on the list. Edinburgh is known as one of the most haunted cities. However, you can still spice up your trip with an interesting mix of comedy and dark ...

  12. Underground vaults ghost tour

    Uncover the most sinister side of Edinburgh's Old Town on this dark adults-only ghost tour. Follow your guide deep underground into the famous Blair Street Underground Vaults. Mercat exclusive audio devices - be immersed and get lost in the stories... Choosing Mercat is ' Good for you, Good for Edinburgh ' - our team, community and planet.

  13. Edinburgh ghost and history walking tours

    Join the award-winning guides of Mercat Tours for a history walk or ghost tour - the perfect introduction to Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city. ... Hidden & Haunted; Evening of Ghosts & Ghouls; Doomed, Dead & Buried; Secrets of Edinburgh's Royal Mile; shopping bag. Login. Mercat Tours History walks and ghost tours, from Edinburgh's award ...

  14. Edinburgh Ghost Walking Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

    Tour Description . On the Edinburgh Mysteries, Witchery and Murders walking tour you will be introduced to Edinburgh's gruesome past: tales of witches, murderers and graverobbers await you. Join us in Edinburgh's Old Town, where we will explore seventeenth-century alleyways and learn about how the Plague affected people living in this city.

  15. The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour Edinburgh

    Join us for our World Famous Underground Ghost Tour! Let one of Edinburgh's most infamous sons or daughters lead you round the dark side of Edinburgh's Old Town. Learn cooking skills from Cassandra Bean or surgical ethics from Dr Knox. Once you're acquainted they will lead you through the upper half of the Old Town, around St Giles ...

  16. 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh in 2024 (local approved!)

    1. The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour: best ghost tours in Edinburgh. RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 3,400+ reviews | TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 15 minutes | BOOK NOW. WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR. Evening walking tour of Edinburgh's Old Town. Guide in costume and character. Suitable for families.

  17. 5 Edinburgh Ghost Tours (That Are Truly Worth it)

    1. Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults and Graveyard Ghost Tour. This historically fascinating ghost-hunting tour will take you to two of the city's most haunted locations - the shadow-shrouded subterranean world of Blair Street, and Canongate Kirkyard. Meeting Point: Mercat Cross High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, UK ( open in google maps ...

  18. 10 Edinburgh Ghost Tours That Will Freak You Out

    Best Edinburgh Ghost Tours The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour. ⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length: 1 hour 15 minutes | Includes: 75-minute walking tour, guide, terrifying stories along the way | ⚡ Book now. This Edinburgh scary tour is one of the most popular to book in the city!

  19. 6 Spooky Edinburgh Ghost Tours All Year Round

    5. Edinburgh Night Ghost Tours. This is an adults only tour which says it all! Funny yet frightening, a walk around the Old Town ends in a tour of the South Bridge Vaults and an Old Town cemetery. Booking online is a must. Book here from only £20 per person and remember - this is only for the bravest of you! 6.

  20. Auld Reekie Tours

    Auld Reekie Tours We offer tours through Edinburgh's most extensive set of vaults & are the only ghost & history tours company with authentic links to witchcraft. View Our Tours More about us. ... A 16th century graveyard and haunted 17th century vaults await you on this guided walking tour. Not suitable for under 12s. Times: 5:30 PM 6:00 PM ...

  21. Edinburgh: Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour

    Full description. Join a guided walking tour to Greyfriars Graveyard and learn about one of Edinburgh's most famous canine residents and hear stories about notorious criminals. See Gothic mausoleums and learn about notable burials as you explore the grim history of the cemetery. Continue with a visit to the nearby Edinburgh Vaults, located in ...

  22. Best Edinburgh ghost tours: Top underground and haunted walking tours

    Private Edinburgh Dark History Tour - Auld Reekie After Hours, from £18.75. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh, from £20. The Edinburgh Dungeon, £25 £20.50 (save £4.50 or ...

  23. Edinburgh's Haunted Underground Vaults

    Visit Edinburgh's Haunted Underground Vaults, hidden under the South Bridge in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Infamous, scary! Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers, and witches alike! On this late-night terror-filled tour you ...

  24. It's Spooktacular: Atlanta-Area Homage to Disneyland's Haunted Mansion

    There's even a "Haunted Mansion" sign on one of the brick pillars at the entrance. Nestled in the Sweet Bottom neighborhood along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, the four-story home ...

  25. United to play Rangers in Edinburgh

    The Edinburgh fixture, which kicks off at 16:00 BST, will be the Reds' final call before travelling to Los Angeles a few days later, for this summer's tour of the United States. 90 in 20 ...