Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

6,786 Reviews4.75 out of 5 stars Based on 6,786 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Edinburgh, Scotland

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1 hour (Approx.)
Mobile Ticket
Instant Confirmation

Overview

Journey along Edinburgh's Royal Mile hearing some of Edinburgh's darker history before visiting the infamous hidden and supposedly haunted vaults beneath the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town. Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults by candlelight, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers and witches alike, said by some to now be occupied by a few of the spirits of these inhabitants long since dead.

Each vault has stories of crime, disease, death and lots more... with which your guide shall enlighten you in all the gory details! You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by a Wiccan coven and you will enter their former temple. Join us to learn why it is no longer safe for them to practice their craft in that vault.

DARE you step inside the infamous stone circle?

What's Included

  • Professional guide
  • Gratuities

Meeting Location

Meeting point

300 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PH, UK

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The tour starts from the Tourist Information Police Box, outside of 300 Lawnmarket. This is on the opposite side of the road from Deacon Brodie’s Tavern. (55.949326, -3.192912)Please be there at least 5-10 minutes early as the tour will always depart on time.

End point

45 Niddry St, Edinburgh EH1 1LG, UK

Start Times

What To Expect

The infamous vaults hidden under the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town fill the nineteen stone arches of this underground architectural wonder. Join our knowledgeable guide to hear why the vaults were built and why they were eventually abandoned...

Hear tales of how the homeless and destitute community of Edinburgh sought refuge in these former slums. What was it really like to live in the darkness? Who were the criminals that stalked the vaults and what did they want? Explore the candlelit Niddry's Wynd, forgotten on today's maps, with your costumed guide.

The tour commences at the Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town. Learn what the town was like in the 1700s, what diseases were feared by the overcrowded population, and what happened to the household waste? You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by the “Source Coven of the Blue Dragon” and you will enter their former temple. You are advised to listen to the guide carefully BEFORE making a decision to step inside the haunted stone circle!

Finally we invite you to experience the eerie atmosphere of the Haunted Vault itself, home to the majority of our many reported sightings... will you be brave enough to enter?

Photographs are recommended, you may even discover something ghostly on them! Please do get in touch with us after the tour to share your experiences with us...

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Alcohol/Drugs are strictly forbidden and anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be turned away.
  • Non-service animals are not allowed.
  • • Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-8752P1

Reviews

4.75
6,786 reviews

Average 4.75 out of 5 stars based on 6,759 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
5,706
4 stars
674
3 stars
224
2 stars
86
1 star
69

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