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• Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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...
What‘s Included
Professional guide
Gratuities
Options
Underground Walking Tour
Reviews
8,509 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
not recommended at all!
Aleksandra L,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00i showed up 16:31 due to roadworks delays and there’s no one here, it’s a shame i’ve been at edi from the morning and i’ve also booked accommodation prior to tomorrows’ event…
Stewart was very...
Mike B,,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Stewart was very informative, the vaults are great for an hour especially on a rainy day! 100% would recommend
Excellent experience
tracybU2557SG,,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent tour of Windhoek and beyond! Learn about the history and culture of Namibia.
Had A Fantastic Tour With Ally
FishTom 99,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had some time to kill in Edinburgh on a rainy day so decided to check out the Vaults Walking Tour and was not disappointed. Ally was a fantastic tour guide whose deep knowledge and charisma made for a great and entertaining tour. This is a good way to fill an hour, and even better if you are able to attend during the week when groups are likely to be smaller, as the ambience in the vaults themselves can be the best kind of spooky. Definitely recommend this if you are in Edinburgh!
Brilliant tour , must do !
Laura D,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Brilliant tour . Really interesting and Josh was an amazing tour guide ! Would recommend this tour .
The tour of the vaults...
Thomas S,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour of the vaults was very interesting. Our tour guide Joshua was very knowledgeable and engaging. He kept the attention of everyone and was very nice.
Very good
lorrainekZ8602CE,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stewart was very informative and knowledgeable. He explained the history very well and allowed time for questions! No question too silly.
Fun facts from Kieran
adamhV7215TZ,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Kieran was absolutely brilliant. Interesting facts delivered with humour and he was always happy to answer any other questions we had. While there are a few ‘spooky’ parts to the tour, this is more an intriguing historical dander than a jump-scare type tour. A real highlight of our trip which we’d happily recommend.
Edinburgh vault
DayTrip05155497051,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00very interesting and a great, knowledgeable guide. Lots of gd facts, liked it was a circular walk. Just the right length of time.
Great tour of the Underground Volts
Patricia F,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour of the volts - walked some of the Royal Mile with our tour guide telling stories and the history of Edinburgh, and into the volts. Thoroughly enjoy the whole experience. Highly recommend.
From £24.00
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Operated by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd