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• Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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
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...
8,155 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sarah Z,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
Dom was really knowledgeable about the vaults & about the city in general. The tour was super interesting & I would 100% recommended it to anyone who happens to be visiting Edinburgh!
Sandra G,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
Well done, with lots of good information about witch burning’s and other interesting stories plus we had an amazing tour guide - thank you Lisa 🙏
Mary G,
Oct 13, 2025
- Viator
This tour was very interesting. The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the Vaults.
Daniel F,
Oct 13, 2025
- Viator
This was quick little hour-long tour that took us a quick walk from the royal mile to the vaults. Darren was a wonderful storyteller and host. Plenty of humor and spooky facts shared throughout the tour. Perfect way to spend an hour in Edinburgh.
Georgina H,
Oct 12, 2025
- Viator
The tour guide was brilliant ,told very interesting stories with a little humour and imaginative scripts
Operated by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd