Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
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?
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• Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Professional guide
Gratuities
7,344 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Barbara S,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
Spooky and scary as advertised. Brenden was a great guide. He was an excellent storyteller! We thoroughly enjoyed our time in his company.
Cora G,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
Excellent tour, very well spoken tour guide, easy to understand and learnt a lot from the guide about the vaults.
Glenn h,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
Excellent tour guide. On time departure. Very informative. Would recommend the experience for a brief tour.
Michelle D,
Apr 22, 2025
- Viator
We had emergency and tried contacting the tour about missing it and were still charged. Despite the fact that my daughter went to the icu and almost died.
Stacy S,
Apr 21, 2025
- Viator
It was really cool to see the buried architecture of the city and hear the history of these vaults. The vaults are empty spaces under the arches that support the bridges that were built to connect high points of various hills in Edinburgh. This was so that the wealthier in Edinburgh could avoid the unsanitary low lying valleys between the hills as they travel from place to place. Apparently there are several such bridges that when you walk on them feel like regular streets because newer buildings were built right up against them. This excursion is different than Mary King’s Close so you should do both!
4.81
4.72
4.90
4.71
4.81
4.79
4.64
4.88
4.49
4.79
4.92
4.73
Operated by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd