edinburgh fringe ghost tour

The Ghost Bus Tours Edinburgh

The Ghost Bus Tours

A theatrical sightseeing tour on-board a classic 1960s Routemaster bus, taking you on a journey around the darker side of Europe’s most haunted city. Join your creepy conductor and a peculiar psychic investigator on a hilarious trip around the ancient city’s sites of murder, torture, execution and paranormal activity. From the makers of the Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tours comes this comedy horror show you’ll never forget as you travel around the city and discover its dark and unusual secrets. ‘Far better than much of the Fringe’ (Edinburgh-Reviews.co.uk).

For more details and to purchase tickets please vist the offical Edinburgh Fringe Festival website – https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/fright-bus-service

T’s And C’s

Private hire, work with us, connect with us, award-winning comedy actors.

All of our tours are hosted by trained actors. We have been the recipients of a number of prestigious tourism awards including the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. We also host a venue at Edinburgh Fringe Festival annually, an internationally renowned hotbed for comedy acts.

Scott Monument

This Victorian-Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott stands in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens. At 200 feet, six inches tall, it is the second largest monument in the world dedicated to a writer. The monument is adorned with countless figurative statues, including Scott and his dog.

Calton Hill

The site of the headquarters of the Scottish government, Calton Hill is also home to many other famous landmarks such as Holyrood Palace, the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, the old Royal High School, the Robert Burns Monument, the Political Martyrs’ Monument and the City Observatory.

Grassmarket

Directly under Edinburgh Castle is the historic market place of Grassmarket. As well as traditionally being the site for many hotels, hostels and taverns, it was also one of the major sites for public executions. 

The Royal Mile

A succession of streets forming the main thoroughfare of Edinburgh’s Old Town comprise The Royal Mile. From the castle gates at one end to the palace gates at the other, it is almost exactly a mile long. It is made up of Castlehill, the Lawnmarket, the High Street, the Canongate, and Abbey Strand.

Parliament Building

Established in 2004, the Scottish Parliament Building is the heart of Scottish politics. 

Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park is a royal park in central Edinburgh. It has an array of hills, lochs, glens, ridges and basalt cliffs. Arthur’s Seat at the center of Holyrood Park is the highest point in Edinburgh.

St. Giles Cathedral

The principal place of worship of the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh. Built in the 12th century, it was named after St. Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh. 

Greyfriar’s Church

One of Edinburgh’s oldest surviving buildings, Greyfriar’s Church was established by the Franciscan order of Greyfriars in 1620. The churchyard was at one time used as a prison and is also the site where Greyfriars Bobby guarded his owners grave until death.

Greyfriar’s Bobby

At the corner where Edinburgh’s Candlemaker Row and George IV Bridge meet, a statue of Bobby the Skye Terrier sits. Bobby was renowned for having guarded his owners grave for over 14 years, until Bobby died himself. Loyal beyond the grave.

Edinburgh Castle

Dominating Edinburgh’s skyline from it’s perch upon the Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is the iconic sight of Edinburgh. In it’s history of over a thousand years, it has been sieged an astonishing twenty-six times, leading to it being dubbed “one of the most attacked placed in the world”.

St. Cuthbert’s Grave

The site surrounding St. Cuthbert’s Church has been a place of Christian burial for over a thousand years, although today, the oldest surviving headstone is that of Reverend Robert Pont, who died in 1606. It has seen it’s fair share of grave robbery too over the years!

Knavesmire Gallows

One of The Strays of York, Knavesmire is a marshy area in York. It was the usual site for public hangings for a long time, the gallows were originally erected back in 1379. Today it is a recreational area and the host of many of York’s public events.

Terry’s Chocolate Factory

Also known as The Chocolate Works, Terry’s Chocolate Factory was opened in 1926 to produce Terry’s chocolate. It was closed in 2005 when Kraft Foods acquired Terry’s and outsourced production to mainland Europe.

Dick Turpin’s Grave

This notorious highwayman, horse thief, poacher, burglar and killer was executed in Knavesmire, York in 1739 for his many deeds. Turpin ascended to the status of ‘hero’ and ‘legend’, romanticised by subsequent dramatic interpretations of his life. He now lies under York.

Clifford’s Tower

The ruins of York Castle, known as Clifford’s Tower overlook York. Built on the orders of William I, the tower served as a fort until a major explosion in 1684 rendered it uninhabitable. It was then used as a prison until 1929.

Golden Fleece Pub

They claim to be the most haunted public house in York! The Golden Fleece is an inn and public house that dates back to the sixteenth century, facing on to The Shambles.

The Shambles

Originally home to over twenty five butcher’s shops, The (Great Flesh) Shambles name originates from the Anglo-Saxon word ‘Fleshammels’ which means ‘meat shelves’, referring to not only the butcher’s hooks, but also the shelf-like structure of the buildings themselves. Some of The Shambles buildings date back to as far as the fourteenth century. 

Black Swan Pub

This fifteenth century public house and inn is a hotbed of ghostly history. A haunt truly unlike another!

York Minister

The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter, better known as York Minster, is one of the largest cathedrals in northern Europe. The Minister is the seat of the Archbishop of York and the second highest office of the Church of England.

St Crux Parish Church

Erected in 1888, on the remains of a medieval church of St. Crux, which was shut down and eventually demolished after becoming unsafe, it’s tower leaning dangerously. The remaining parish is now home to the exuberant ornaments retained from the original church.

This four-storey gatehouse sits at the limits of the walls surrounding York city. It was originally a fort capable of being defended on every floor.

St.Mary’s Abbey

These ruins in the York Museum Gardens were once the richest abbey in the north of England. The original church was founded in 1055 and dedicated to St Olaf II of Norway. All that remains today are the north and west walls, the pilgrim’s Hospitium, the west gate, and the King’s Manor.

Holyrood Palace

Opposing Edinburgh Castle at the other end of the Royal Mile. It has served as the principal residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century. A witches ghost is said to haunt the palace.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is a famed suspension bridge linking Tower Hamlets and Southwark across the River Thames. Originally built between 1886 and 1894, the bridge is an iconic symbol of London itself.

The most popular paid tourist attraction in the entire United Kingdom. Erected in 2000, it was originally known as the Millennium Wheel or the Millennium Eye. At the time it was the largest ferris wheel in the world, it is now only the largest ferris wheel in Europe.

The tallest building in the United Kingdom and the European Union. It was completed in July of 2012 and is the residence of many restaurants, bars and even a hotel.

Tower of London

“What hasn’t taken place here?” might be a better question. The Tower of London has variably served as an armoury, a treasury, a menagerie, the home of the Royal Mint, a public record office and the home of the Crown Jewels of England. It was originally built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, following the Norman conquest of England. It was originally resented and held as a symbol of oppression.

St. Paul Catherdral

Situated at the highest point in London, Ludgate Hill, St’ Paul’s Cathedral is the second largest church in the UK and one of London’s most recognisable sights. It was originally constructed in 1697 by Sir Christopher Wren as part of the rebuilding project following the Great Fire of London. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle.

Downing Street

Built by Sir George Downing in 1680, Downing Street is the heart of British politics. The Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer both reside on the street. The street is understandably inaccessible to the public, but can be viewed from Whitehall.

Buckingham Palace

Our royal family’s primary residence. Originally erected as a large townhouse for the use of the Duke of Buckingham, the townhouse was acquired in 1761 by King George III and quickly transformed into a palace fit for a king.

Westminster Abbey

A titan feat of Gothic architecture, built in 960, with many additions over the years. Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all coronations of British monarchs have taken place right here.

Trafalger Square

The home of political demonstrations, contemporary art and of course Nelson’s Column. Trafalgar Square was named as such to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar. The site was once known as Charing Cross and was the original site of the King’s Mews.

Classic Routemaster Bus

Our large fleet of vehicles is comprised entirely of 1960’s Routemaster double-deckers. These gorgeous vintage buses are a wonderful reminder of London’s rich transport history. Lovingly restored in our signature ‘midnight-black’ livery, finished with antique lampshades and plush red velvet curtains.

High Class Customer Care

We are proud of our consistently outstanding reputation for customer service. Whether you are booking online, booking over the phone or booking on the street from one of our sales representatives, you will truly be in good hands prior to boarding with us. Our trained actors are then primed to entertain you for the duration. Try one of our Private Hires for a real touch of the exclusive VIP experience.

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.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please see my  Privacy Policy  for more information.

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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THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Ghost Tours

Ghost & vampire tours in edinburgh.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day 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
• Special Offers
• 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. Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

5. Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

6. Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh

7. Small Group Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

8. Tour of Terror

9. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

10. Small-Group Edinburgh Old Town Ghost Walking Tour

11. Small Group Edinburgh Night Walking Tour with Underground Vaults

12. Edinburgh - Dark History

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

14. Underground City of the Dead Tour

15. Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

16. Edinburgh’s Ghostly Trail Private Tour

17. Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour

18. Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

19. Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh

20. Ghosts of Edinburgh: Bloody Past Outdoor Escape Game

21. City of the Dead's Double Dead Tour

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

23. City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour

24. City of the Dead Underground Vaults (Day)

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

26. 2 Hours Ghost Tour - English Tour Guide

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

28. Gory Stories: The Kids Tour

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

30. Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh Old Town

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

Haunted Vaults Tour

Our guide will enlighten you on the dark history of Old Town Edinburgh’s most extensive haunted underground vaults that date back to the 1700s. Former slum dwellings and home to the wretched and destitute, as well as a despicable criminal underworld.

With gruesome devices dating back to the late 1500s. Visit our medieval torture exhibition to see instruments similar to those used in Edinburgh’s history and find out how and why they were used.

On this walking tour you’ll also hear tales of the paranormal activity and ghostly apparitions that are said to haunt the vaults. View a former wiccan coven preserved as its previous occupants left it.

Highlights:  Our medieval torture exhibition. And the paranormally active vaults of Niddry Street. Dark tales of Edinburgh’s Old Town. A genuine former witches coven.

Not suitable for under 12s

Until Thursday 21st March 2024.

£20 per person, £70 for 4 people

£240 for 2 people up to 10 people and then £18 per additional person up to a maximum of 36 people.

Know before you go: Check our FAQs

“We did the underground vaults tour and we thought it was amazing. Was great to walk down the Royal Mile and learn some gruesome facts about the way these people used to live. Seeing the torture devices was also extremely interesting. I definitely recommend this tour!”

“Very awesome experience if you like dark history. The tour makes you see some easy to overlook landmarks/monuments, that have macabre stories behind them.

Entering the vaults gives you a little taste of how the less fortunate people used to “live”, if you can even call it that.”

“We had a fantastic time on our tour. Our guide was knowledgable and very funny. The tour was very informative and something different to do. We certainly recommend.”

 “My friends and I went on this tour, and it was absolutely amazing!! Our tour guide was so captivating with her knowledge on the spooky history of Edinburgh, and I loved hearing about everything she had to say. There was even a couple ghost stories that gave me the shivers, but it was nothing excessively scary.”

“Such a fun spooky tour to do while in the city. Our guide shared all the nitty gritty stories of the area and was very captivating!”

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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!

THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Ghost Tours

Ghost & vampire tours in edinburgh.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day 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
• Special Offers
• 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. Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

5. Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

6. Haunted Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh

7. Small Group Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour in Edinburgh

8. Tour of Terror

9. Extreme Paranormal Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

10. Small-Group Edinburgh Old Town Ghost Walking Tour

11. Small Group Edinburgh Night Walking Tour with Underground Vaults

12. Edinburgh - Dark History

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

14. Underground City of the Dead Tour

15. Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh

16. Edinburgh’s Ghostly Trail Private Tour

17. Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour

18. Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

19. Terror Walking Tour in Edinburgh

20. Ghosts of Edinburgh: Bloody Past Outdoor Escape Game

21. City of the Dead's Double Dead Tour

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

23. City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour

24. City of the Dead Underground Vaults (Day)

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

26. 2 Hours Ghost Tour - English Tour Guide

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

28. Gory Stories: The Kids Tour

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

30. Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh Old Town

What travelers 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

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!)

Free Ghost Tour

Discover the dark side of Old Edinburgh

Secure your space now.

The original Edinburgh Free Ghost Tour

• Every night
• 154 High Street (Royal Mile)

No card info required

Free Ghost Tour of Edinburgh

Edinburgh's dark side included body snatching, public executions, gruesome jails and tortures. Come to the FREE Ghost Tour and hear ghostly tales and sinister stories that will transport you back to the terrifying past of old Edinburgh as we walk spooky shadows and haunted alleyways.

Ghost, Murder and Tortures' Tour!

"Funny, Engaging, Educational, Interactive, Welcoming HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Roisin had so much energy and did the job above what might have been expected."

TripAdvisor (Apr. 23)

Spooky and faszinating!

"You don't believe in ghosts? Nevertheless, you won't dare to deny their existence after this tour! Interesting, horrible, and faszinating stories all over Edinburgh's Old Town!"

TripAdvisor (Dec. 22)

Superb Ghost Tour

"An engaging story-teller with plenty of tales of the macabre from this wonderful city. You will learn about the history of the city as well as its darker side. The tour concluded in the cemetery at Greyfriars Kirkyard. An atmospheric and chilling way to end the evening."

TripAdvisor (Oct. 22)

"What a brilliant night it was, my wife jumped out of her skin when something creepy touched on the arm in Greyfriars cemetery near the covenanters prison. Full recommend this tour."

Norfolkmick

TripAdvisor (Sep. 22)

Tour Description

Edinburgh is known as one of the most haunted cities in Europe, with a past of murders, witchcraft and plague. Its wynds and closes have witnessed the two sides of the city: beauty and horror .

Edinburgh's dark side also included body snatching, public executions, gruesome jails and tortures .

Come to the FREE 1.5 hour Ghost Tour and hear ghostly tales and sinister stories that will transport you back to the terrifying past of old Edinburgh as we walk spooky shadows and haunted alleyways.

To ensure the highest quality of our Free Tours, groups of more than 14 people should book a Private Tour .

If you are arranging a booking for a School Group , please book a Private Tour .

This will allow us to give you a more personalized experience. Thanks for your understanding!

Secure your space now for the Free Ghost Tour!

Showing up is fine in most cases. However, you will have priority with a booking if tours reach their capacity.

Meeting Point

The FREE Ghost Tour starts on The Royal Mile just in front of a bar called Copper Still (154 High Street).

Look for the yellow umbrellas!

Related tours in edinburgh.

Edinburgh Free Tour

Every day @ 10am, 11am & 1 pm

Duration: 2 hours

Get to see the most interesting and intriguing spots of the old city of Edinburgh guided by an engaging local.

Free Harry Potter Tour

Every day @ 2pm

Duration: 1.5 hours

Explore the real people and places that inspired JK Rowling to create the Universe of Harry Potter.

Free New Town Tour

Saturday @ 2pm

Discover the finest part of town and the role Edinburgh played as a center of the Enlightment in Europe.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Every day @ 10am, 12.15pm & 1.30pm

Get the best value of your visit to Edinburgh Castle and jump the queue with our skip-the-line tickets.

Fri & Sat @ 8pm

Duration: 4.5 hours

Meet amazing people from all over the world and enjoy Edinburgh nightlife at its best 7 nights a week.

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Useful information.

Travel tips you need to know before visiting Edinburgh.

Sightseeing

Discover the most unmissable attractions in Edinburgh.

Things to do

The ultimate guide to things to do in Edinburgh.

Food and drink

Edinburgh's best restaurants, bars and pubs.

Where to stay

Find out the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

Discover how to travel around Edinburgh.

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