Edinburgh’s Old Town is a place where history whispers from every cobblestone. Its narrow alleys, called closes, and hidden underground vaults hold centuries of stories, many of them dark and mysterious. A ghost tour here is more than a spooky thrill. It's a captivating journey into the city's past. We'll show you what to expect from the city's famous ghost tours, from the subterranean vaults to the atmospheric graveyards. Get ready to discover the chilling tales and forgotten residents of this ancient city.

A City Built on Secrets: Edinburgh's Dark Past

To understand Edinburgh's ghosts, you first need to know the city's history. The Old Town you see today is built on top of layers of its former self.

The Hidden World of Closes and Vaults

As Edinburgh grew crowded in the 17th and 18th centuries, the wealthy built grand new homes, leaving the Old Town to the poor. The city's many closes became packed with tenements, and a series of underground chambers, known as the South Bridge Vaults, were built. Originally intended for storage and workshops, these vaults quickly fell into disuse and became home to the city's most destitute residents. Plunged into darkness and rife with crime, they were a place of immense suffering.

The Shadow of the Plague

The Black Death swept through Edinburgh several times, leaving devastation in its wake. During the great plague of 1645, victims were forcibly quarantined, sometimes within their own homes. Legend says that many were sent to plague colonies outside the city walls or sealed within specific closes to die, their spirits forever tied to the places where they took their last breath.

What to Expect on an Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Ghost tours bring these chilling histories to life. You’ll walk through atmospheric streets while a guide shares tales of ghosts, murderers, and mysteries. Most tours include visits to one or more iconic haunted locations.

The Underground Vaults

Descending beneath the bustling streets into the South Bridge or Blair Street Vaults is a highlight of many tours. You’ll step into dark, damp stone chambers where guides recount tales of the spirits said to linger here, from the mischievous child "Jack" to the malevolent "Watcher." The air is cold, the darkness is absolute, and it's easy to let your imagination run wild.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

This is no ordinary cemetery. Greyfriars Kirkyard is famous for Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who guarded his master's grave. But it's also home to the Covenanters' Prison and the Black Mausoleum, the final resting place of Sir George "Bluidy" Mackenzie. This fearsome persecutor of the Covenanters is said to be one of the world's most active and well-documented poltergeists.

The Canongate & Mary King's Close

Walk the lower part of the Royal Mile through the Canongate, and you'll hear tales of its infamous residents, from cannibals to accused witches. A separate, ticketed attraction, The Real Mary King's Close, allows you to explore a preserved 17th-century street frozen in time beneath the City Chambers, complete with costumed guides who share stories of its former inhabitants.

Choosing Your Ghostly Adventure

Edinburgh offers a wide range of tours, so you can find one that perfectly matches your interests.

Day Tours vs. Night Tours

  • Day Tours: Attractions like The Real Mary King's Close offer historical tours during the day. These are less about jump scares and more about fascinating history, making them a great option for families or those who prefer their spookiness with the lights on.
  • Night Tours: This is the classic ghost tour experience. The darkness adds a layer of atmosphere and suspense. As you walk the empty, lamp-lit corridors, the chilling tales feel much closer and more believable.

Theatrical vs. Historical Tours

  • Theatrical Tours: These tours are all about entertainment. Guides are often costumed characters who use humor and jump scares to create a fun, high-energy experience. They're perfect for a scary, laugh-filled night out.
  • Historical Tours: These tours focus more on folklore, history, and documented paranormal accounts. The guides are master storytellers who build suspense through detailed narratives rather than theatrics. Choose this if you're a history buff who loves a good ghost story.

Practical Tips for Your Ghost Tour

A little planning will help you make the most of your spooky experience.

Budget and Booking

Ghost tour prices vary, but you can generally expect to pay:

  • Walking Tours: £15 - £25 per person.
  • Underground Vault Tours: £18 - £30 per person.
  • The Real Mary King's Close: Around £25 per person.
  • Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season and for weekend tours.

What to Wear and Bring

  • Comfortable Shoes: Edinburgh's Old Town has steep hills and uneven cobblestones. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential.
  • Warm, Waterproof Layers: The weather in Scotland is famously unpredictable. Even on a clear evening, it can get chilly, and the underground vaults are always cold. A waterproof jacket is a wise choice.

Safety and Accessibility

Most tours involve walking on uneven surfaces, navigating stairs, and standing for long periods. The underground vaults are not wheelchair accessible and can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Always check with the tour company beforehand about accessibility. Stick with your group and be mindful of your surroundings, especially on late-night tours.

Respectful Conduct

When visiting a cemetery like Greyfriars Kirkyard, remember that it is a burial ground. Be respectful by staying on paths, not touching or leaning on headstones, and keeping your voice down.

A Post-Tour Dram: Historic Pubs Nearby

After your tour, calm your nerves with a drink at one of Old Town's historic pubs.

  • The White Hart Inn: One of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh, located in the Grassmarket, it's rumored to have its own ghosts.
  • The Bow Bar: A classic, cozy pub known for its excellent selection of whiskies and real ales.
  • The World's End: Situated on the Royal Mile, this pub marks the boundary of the old city walls and offers a warm, traditional atmosphere.