edinburgh ghost tour reviews

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.

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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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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!

👻 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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)

• 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.

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!

• 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.

• 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.

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

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!)

THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Ghost Tours

Ghost & vampire tours in edinburgh.

• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• 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.

1. Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

2. The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

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

4. Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh

5. Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

6. Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

7. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

8. Small Group Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

9. Tour of Terror

10. Small Group Edinburgh Night Walking Tour with Underground Vaults

11. Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

12. Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour

13. Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh

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

15. Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

16. Ghosts of Edinburgh: Bloody Past Outdoor Escape Game

17. Edinburgh - Dark History

18. City of the Dead's Double Dead Tour

19. City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour

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

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

22. 2 Hours Ghost Tour - English Tour Guide

23. Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh Old Town

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

25. Gory Stories: The Kids Tour

26. Edinburgh’s Ghostly Trail Private Tour

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

28. Unmissable Edinburgh Private Sightseeing Tour

29. Edinburg : Private Haunted Graveyard Walking Tour

30. Edinburgh : The Royal Mile Old Town Walking Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh
• The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
• Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends
• Haunted Vaults walking tour in Edinburgh
• Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh
• See Your City
• Cadies & Witchery Tours
• All-Star Guides
• Mercat Tours
• Auld Reekie Tours
• Hi Amy Edimbourg
• City of Edinburgh Tours
• Free Ghost Tour
• The Ghost Bus Tours

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The Best Ghost Tours in 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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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.

• 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.

More like this

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.

See the UK for less this spring with National Express

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 .

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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.

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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Edinburgh Ghost Tour With Old Town, Cemetery, and Vaults

Step back in time and learn about the eerie ambiance of Edinburgh’s past on the ‘Edinburgh Ghost Tour With Old Town, Cemetery , and Vaults 2024.’ As dusk falls over the cobblestone streets, you will be transported to an era where shadows hold secrets and whispers linger in the night air.

But what lurks beneath the surface of this historic city? Join the tour to uncover tales of the supernatural, mysteries of the graveyards, and the chilling whispers of the vaults. The journey promises a haunting experience that will leave you questioning what lies beyond the veil of the living world.

• Explore Edinburgh’s dark past with a guide in period costume.
• Visit haunted sites like Greyfriars Kirkyard and underground vaults.
• Hear chilling tales of ghosts, murders , and crimes.
• Dive into the city’s mysterious history on a 75-minute tour.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• From Edinburgh: 6-Day Shetland & Nothernmost Explorer
• Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh
• Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & the Kingdom of Northumbria From Edinburgh
• The Edinburgh Dungeon Entrance Ticket

Tour Highlights

Exploring Edinburgh’s Ghost Tour in 2024 uncovers a haunting tapestry of dark history and mysterious tales that linger within the city’s hidden corners and eerie underground vaults.

As visitors explore the tour’s highlights, they’re immersed in legends of supernatural encounters and spine-chilling narratives. Led by a guide dressed as a long-dead Edinburgh citizen, participants traverse the old town’s wynds and closes, delving into the eerie ambiance of a haunted cemetery steeped in folklore.

The journey continues underground, where remnants of past eras lurk in the South Bridge vaults, setting the stage for gripping stories of ghosts, witchcraft , murders , and more.

This immersive experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Edinburgh’s darker side, blending history with the supernatural for a captivating evening adventure.

Tour Details

Discover the intricate details of the Edinburgh Ghost Tour 2024, including ghostly encounters , supernatural stories , historical mysteries , and eerie legends .

The tour encompasses a 75-minute exploration of Old Town, Greyfriars Kirkyard , and South Bridge vaults, led by a guide in period costume narrating tales of Edinburgh’s dark past.

Starting at 124 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS , UK , at 08:45 PM , the tour immerses participants in the city’s haunting history. With a maximum of 30 travelers per tour, the experience caters to families and most travelers, although it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Operated by City of Edinburgh Tours, the activity concludes at the meeting point, promising an evening of spine-chilling adventures and historical revelations.

Meeting Point and Time

The meeting point for the Edinburgh Ghost Tour 2024 is located at 124 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS , UK , with the tour starting promptly at 08:45 PM . Participants will gather at this historical spot before embarking on a spine-chilling journey through Edinburgh’s haunted past.

As the clock strikes 8:45 PM, a guide dressed as a long-dead Edinburgh citizen will lead the group into the mysterious streets, sharing captivating ghost stories and tales of historical characters along the way. This meeting point sets the stage for an evening filled with intrigue and darkness, as attendees prepare to explore the city’s eerie Old Town, a haunted cemetery , and the ominous underground vaults that hold remnants of a bygone era.

Logistics Information

As participants gather at the historical meeting point on 124 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS, UK, for the Edinburgh Ghost Tour 2024 starting at 08:45 PM, they will be greeted by a guide in period attire ready to lead them on a chilling exploration of Edinburgh’s haunted past.

The tour caters to most travelers, near public transportation , and offers an immersive experience with a group size limit to ensure a personalized journey through Edinburgh’s dark history.

Tour Experience

Descending into the eerie underground vaults of Edinburgh, visitors are enveloped in chilling tales of ghosts, witchcraft , and unsolved mysteries narrated by a guide in period attire.

The tour offers an immersive experience through interactive storytelling , where participants are transported back in time to witness the spooky encounters of the city’s past inhabitants.

As they explore the dimly lit passageways and hidden corners, guests are captivated by the guide’s vivid retelling of historical events intertwined with legends of the paranormal.

From learning about gruesome murders to delving into the realm of the supernatural, each step taken in the underground chambers reveals a new layer of Edinburgh’s dark and mysterious history, leaving a lasting impression on all who dare to venture into its depths.

Customer Reviews

Venturing into the realm of customer feedback, visitors share their varied experiences of the Edinburgh Ghost Tour, shedding light on the tour’s captivating allure and areas for improvement. Reviews praise the guide performances, with mentions of knowledgeable guides like Dr. Knox and Dr. O who stayed in character, delivering entertaining and well-paced tours. Customers appreciated the tours catering to different mobility concerns and offering an insightful glimpse into Edinburgh’s darker history.

However, some feedback highlighted concerns about historical accuracy , noting discrepancies in the guide’s knowledge and the information shared during the tour. Despite captivating locations like the Edinburgh vaults, visitors expressed a desire for more precise historical information to enhance the overall tour experience.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands in Spanish.
• Underground City of the Dead Tour
• The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
• St Andrews & Cliffs and Dunnottar Castle in Spanish.
• Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour Spanish Tour Guide
• Loch Ness Glen Coe and the Highlands Italian Tour Guide

Common questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Ghost Tour in Edinburgh?

Age restrictions for the ghost tour in Edinburgh may apply. Parents should provide consent for minors. It’s advisable to check with the tour operator for specific age limits and requirements to ensure a suitable experience.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Specific Attire Recommended for Participants on the Tour?

There’s no specific dress code for the tour, but costume options can enhance the experience. Wear weather-appropriate attire and comfortable footwear for walking. Group dynamics encourage interaction, so come prepared to engage with the guide and fellow participants.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Filming During the Tour?

During the tour, the guide requests visitors to respect others’ privacy by adhering to camera etiquette . This ensures a positive tourist experience and allows all participants to create lasting memories without disrupting the atmosphere or fellow guests.

How Long in Advance Should Tickets Be Booked for This Tour?

Tickets for the ghost tour should be booked in advance to secure a spot. The 75-minute tour offers captivating glimpses into Edinburgh’s dark past. Group discounts might be available, and the booking options can be checked with City of Edinburgh Tours.

Are There Any Special Effects or Jump Scares Included in the Tour That May Be Unsettling for Some Participants?

Special effects and jump scares are not typically included in the tour, ensuring a spooky yet safe experience for all participants. The focus is on historical narratives and immersive storytelling rather than startling effects.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

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• Minivan Private Transfer Edinburgh to Edinburgh Airport EDI

Experience the dark and mysterious side of Edinburgh on the ‘Edinburgh Ghost Tour With Old Town, Cemetery, and Vaults 2024.’ With a guide dressed in period costume leading the way, explore the city’s haunted past through eerie alleyways, a haunted cemetery , and underground vaults.

Don’t miss out on this spine-chilling adventure filled with ghostly tales and historical intrigue. Book your spot now and prepare for a night you won’t soon forget!

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