Culture & history Guided tours Landmarks & monuments Tours Educational activities Museums & exhibitions Ghost & vampire tours Sightseeing Literary activities

The witching hour has come; it’s time for a reckoning. Follow in the tortured footsteps of real people who suffered in Scotland’s witch trials. Bear witness to the accusations, the trials & the truth.

Highlights

• Hear centuries of myths dispelled – it’s time for truth
• Uncover the very real history behind Scotland’s witch trials
• Visit locations where Scotland’s witches were once executed, and now remembered
• Exclusive multi-sensory tours; with master Storyteller guides

Description

Accused, tried, and tortured. Step into Scotland’s shadowy past on this immersive five-star Edinburgh history tour. Follow in the final tragic footsteps of those condemned as ‘witches’ and bear witness to the devastating truth. You’ll be transported back to a dark time ruled by a crazed king and his obsession with ‘otherworldly phenomenon’. Under the spell of a master storyteller you’re invited to listen carefully and perhaps think again... Persecution of the weak, the wise and skilled? Roused by fear and envy? Inflamed by religious zeal? Feel the tension rise as you journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town, along ancient cobbled closes and hidden alleyways. With the conjured scent of smoke in the air and the echoes of crackling flames, stand upon the Castle Esplanade — the site where hundreds burned at the stake. Hunted and hanged. Around 2,500 people were executed for witchcraft in Scotland across two centuries. Agnes, Geilis, Janet, John… Learn names and hear stories of the women, and men, accused of sorcery. Alleged psychics, hexers, and communicators with the devil coerced into confession. Our stories will begin with the accusations, then the trials and lead to the tragic fate suffered by many. History and Hysteria: Their Trials and Truth Told There was no justice in court, nor truth in tribunals for accused ‘witches’. On this tour, our award-winning master Storytellers shine a light on the truth behind the trials and the real reasons behind the witch crazes that swept like a plague for centuries, across Scotland and beyond. The past is calling. Will you bear witness?

Includes

Guide Walking tour Devices to hear the guide clearly

Important Information

• To provide a fully immersive experience, we'll provide a personal audio device. Your Storyteller will use a headset with a microphone to ensure you hear every word over the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh's lively Old Town. You are welcome to bring your own headphones (3.5mm jack) or use a pair of ours This tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately This is an adults-only tour and is unsuitable for those aged under 18

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund