Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town
Overview
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?
Additional Info
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• Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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.
What To Expect
The infamous vaults hidden under the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town fill the nineteen stone arches of this underground architectural wonder. Join our knowledgeable guide to hear why the vaults were built and why they were eventually abandoned... Hear tales of how the homeless and destitute community of Edinburgh sought refuge in these former slums. What was it really like to live in the darkness? Who were the criminals that stalked the vaults and what did they want? Explore the candlelit Niddry's Wynd, forgotten on today's maps, with your costumed guide. The tour commences at the Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town. Learn what the town was like in the 1700s, what diseases were feared by the overcrowded population, and what happened to the household waste? You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by the “Source Coven of the Blue Dragon” and you will enter their former temple. You are advised to listen to the guide carefully BEFORE making a decision to step inside the haunted stone circle! Finally we invite you to experience the eerie atmosphere of the Haunted Vault itself, home to the majority of our many reported sightings... will you be brave enough to enter? Photographs are recommended, you may even discover something ghostly on them! Please do get in touch with us after the tour to share your experiences with us...
Options
Underground Walking Tour
What‘s Included
Professional guide
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
8,962 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Don't miss the underground!
Nick Y,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nick was an incredibly lively storyteller and really made this tour come alive. The whole thing was very thorough, and very spooky. We were so intrigued by the history that we popped over to a nearby bookstore looking for more information about the vaults, but found that Nick's tour covered almost everything we read in the book we chose. Highly recommend for an unconventional tour of Edinburgh.
Great tour of the vaults...
Angela N,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour of the vaults and some historic sites in Edinburgh old town. Our guide, Lisa, was very animated and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend!!
Creepy vibes
Footprints795244,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00It was interesting experience. James was an awesome guide.
Great tour with Amie
moutainmac,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amie provided a first rate experience. She is a knowledge and charismatic guide who leans on her Scottish heritage as both a point of pride and comic relief.
Nice tour
Joseph A,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00James is a great guide showed us a great time. Loved all the narration and all the off beat jokes as well.
Plenty of information and drama. Well worth doing
369melissak,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great tour. Louisa was the perfect guide. Plenty of information and drama. Well worth doing
Vault tour
Jay M,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Guide was very knowledgeable and detailed. He answered any questions we had and cared for our safety.
Tour guide was great,...
Ellie C,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour guide was great, knowledge and engaging. Interesting tour and very creepy. Loved it! Highly recommend
10/10 recommend
jenniferwT4282MJ,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Aimee was amazing! She was engaging and knowledgeable! Definitely recommend
Stewart was very knowledgeable and made the tour interesting. Highly recommended. It lasts around and hour
brucelee2006,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Interesting tour with a top guide Stewart
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Operated by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd