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
Carolyn_P, 10/22/2025 7:13:32 AM
There are uneven paths and at times dim lighting. Sophie are guide was so lovely and informative. I would highly recommend
O2996OYjacobj, 10/21/2025 6:17:19 PM
Great experience overall. James was fun but also took things that needed to be taken seriously, serious. For an example safety. Said a lot of great stuff about different vaults and overall history about Edinburgh so it was both fun but also very interactive and informative.
Fearless57473244965, 10/21/2025 2:54:14 PM
Jordan was a great tour guide! Did a really good job of explaining the history of Edinburgh and how the vaults came to be. Very enjoyable hour long history lesson.
elianasY2187ZZ, 10/20/2025 5:21:15 PM
What a great tour! James was our guide and he is full of energy and enthusiasm! He did great chaperoning a group of 36! Very cool and quite scary history !
Navigator41031042677, 10/20/2025 2:46:07 PM
We went on the underground walking tour Sunday the 19th of October 1500, Aimee was absolutely brilliant, I have worked as a guide in the past and been on many of Edinburghs walking tours, but she taught me many new things
X2349LBmiak, 10/20/2025 2:36:48 PM
The tour was very interesting and a little spooky. Jordan was very knowledgeable and entertaining. I loved learning about some of the history of Edinburgh.
Kate_H, 10/20/2025 12:13:37 PM
It's short and sweet. You get a little history and drama. Guide was fine. He's apparently known to be grumpy, acknowledged it and was in fact grumpy.
Cindy_H, 10/20/2025 12:07:22 PM
Our guide was James and he was a lovely person! We enjoyed every second of it. Loved the way he was passionate about his job and how animated he was.
lifeofl735, 10/19/2025 9:06:05 PM
Aimee was such a brilliant guide she was hilarious and great craic! We thoroughly enjoyed this experience it was interesting, creepy and lots of fun!
172kirkk, 10/19/2025 5:11:47 PM
very interesting, staff at very friendly would definitely come again. Thankyou for the great service and very well kept area
- 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