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• Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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
8,805 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sarah is excellent!
Alex O,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sarah was fantastic! Chose perfect moments to be spooky and then hilarious, excellent story telling and looking after everyone very well. She crafted the atmosphere with expertise! Will definitely recommend to others. Thank you, Sarah!
James was very...
Cheryl B,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00James was very enthusiastic. The small group tour was Interesting with regards to the history of the underground vaults
Tour with a difference
Sally F,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did this tour in May 2026 - with Shannon - such an interesting insight into how the underground tunnels were built and used - absolutely amazing - we would thoroughly recommend this tour - Shannon was very knowledgeable and has such passion for the subject.
James has a very good knowledge about Edinburgh's history 👌. He was funny and very attentive to safety and comfort of his guest
Companion60565304485,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We thought there might be some more information on witchery.
Underground vaults
amandasQ9606SM,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00James was a fantastic tour operator, very informative and energetic.
Go forth and do this tour!
sophien551,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Darren was a great tour guide! Enjoyed the tour. Recommend.
Don't waste your money
lindahT1035QI,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00The tour began with a long walk through town. Half of the tour seemed to be walking to the tunnels. When we finally got to the tunnels it was really 4 rooms in a hallway. It didn't seem to be underground. I would not waste my time or money on this tour.
Tour guide !
Erika L,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Darren was a very knowledgeable & fun guide! The vaults were spacious and well kept. The witch coven's temple was very unique!
Great family fun
bennyv1988,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour very educational and interesting
The unknown and forgettable history of Edinburgh
Charles H,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour with Luisa and gory history of Edinburgh. Learn a little bit of the old world that was not about the rich and Crown Jewels. Luisa ties the history in with your dramatic presentation.
From £24.00
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Operated by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd