Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Old Town, Edinburgh, Edinburgh



Uncover the darker side of Edinburgh on a walking tour of the historic city center, and feel the hair on the back of your neck stand on end as you discover gruesome graveyards and hear about the secrets that lie down the narrow alleyways.

Edinburgh Ghost-Themed Walking Tour

This guided walking tour explores Edinburgh city centre’s dark history, ideal for history buffs and ghost story enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Learn about the notorious Burke and Hare
  • Hear chilling tales of witch trials and burnings
  • Visit Canongate Kirkyard and its mausoleums
  • Discover the truth about the murder of Mary Queen of Scots’ lover

Description

Meet Edinburgh’s infamous characters on a ghost-themed guided walking tour through the city centre’s dark past. Hear stories of witch burnings, grave robbing, body snatching, and mysterious murders.

Begin your tour on the Royal Mile, where plundered tombs, funeral pyres, and ancient mass graves lie hidden. Your local guide brings these stories to life as you explore.

Visit gruesome burial sites like Canongate Kirkyard and hear spine-chilling accounts of real-life cannibals and vampires. The tour concludes at Whitefoord House mansion, enriching your understanding of Edinburgh’s historical mysteries.

Includes

  • Guided walking tour

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking tip: Wear comfortable footwear and bring a flashlight if visiting after dark. Evening tours offer the best atmosphere for this experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour explores Edinburgh's dark history through ghost stories, witch trials, and infamous criminal cases in the city centre.
The tour takes place around Edinburgh city centre, including stops at sites like Canongate Kirkyard and notable mausoleums.
Burke and Hare were notorious 19th-century body snatchers and murderers in Edinburgh known for supplying corpses for medical research.
Yes, the tour reveals the truth behind the murder of Mary Queen of Scots’ lover as part of Edinburgh's dark history.
Tour length varies, so check the booking website for the current duration.
The tour involves mature themes like murder and witch trials, so it may be better suited for older teens and adults.
It is recommended to book in advance to secure your place, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Operating times may vary, so check the website for the most up-to-date schedule.
The walking tour is conducted outdoors throughout Edinburgh city centre, including stops at historic outdoor sites.
Yes, the tour is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in Edinburgh's darker historical events and legends.

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