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?
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
shhdhd, 12/14/2025 4:14:13 AM
Lisa was a very good tour guide very knowledgeable and helpful. She made the tour fun and relaxed. Showed us a lot of places we didn’t realise were there. The vaults were interesting if a little spooky
986dearbhlaa, 12/13/2025 7:31:29 PM
Myself and my friend went on late night tour with James and was great! James was so enthusiastic and funny, it really added to our experience. We came over from Ireland and both had never been on any sort of walking tour. James provided so many facts and his enthusiasm about it really added to the overall experience. Would definitely recommend!
Ludakris25, 12/13/2025 4:34:18 PM
Had a great tour with a great tour guide Jordan Very knowledgeable which made it extra good. Would highly recommend to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
Z8025MBandrews, 12/13/2025 12:37:18 PM
kieran are tour guide was amazing & made the whole experience so interesting with his stories & knowledge, we learnt so much about the history of edinburgh & going underground was an experience we will never forget highly recommended this tour you will love it, especially going underground it was amazing experience
jamiedJ3426JY, 12/13/2025 5:09:05 AM
Our tour guide Nick was great funny and very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend and will definitely book again. Even let us stop for coffee
118kayleighg, 12/12/2025 5:03:23 PM
On the 11th december i took a tour down into the vaults at 10am. Jordan was an awesome tour guide! Very informative and fun tour. A bit spooky but thats expected i think!
Jennifer_F, 12/12/2025 2:19:07 PM
Louisa was excellent and entertaining! She is a fantastic story teller…very creepy vaults. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour!
John_C, 12/12/2025 10:13:18 AM
Great story telling by Charlie, he brought the stories to life and expressed it in a unique way. Would recommend it.
713lexij, 12/11/2025 12:11:19 PM
Louisa was really enthusiastic and we enjoyed the stories throughout the tour. Definitely recommend if staying in Edinburgh
915philippaw, 12/11/2025 10:59:57 AM
Only a 3 person group as we went in the middle of a work week! Jordan was very knowledgable, enthusiastic and engaging. Interesting to learn about the dark history of Edinburgh and what happened in the vaults! Lovely little tour. Only took around one hour.
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- not suitable for children under 5 years of age, children under 2 years of age are not allowed on tour.
- Entrance/Exit to the vaults is via a 2 foot tall step followed by single flight spiral staircase.
- Mezzanine staircases of 5-7 steps inside vaults between levels.
- 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
- The walking pace and terrain may not be suitable for those with any difficulty walking.
- We do not have any luggage storage so please make alternate arrangements.
- No toilet stops or toilets available during tour.
Departure point
The tour starts from the Red Telephone Box and Tourist Information Police Box, outside of 300 Lawnmarket. This is on the opposite side of the road from Deacon Brodie’s Tavern. Please be there at least 5-10 minutes early as the tour will always depart on time.Redemption
Meet at the Red Telephone box and Tourist Information ticket booth outside of 300 Lawnmarket, EH1 2PH. This is on the opposite side of the road to Deacon Brodies Tavern. Please be 5-10 minutes early as tours will always depart on time.24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund