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• Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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
8,619 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Brilliant
Denise M,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Extremely informative. Well worth a booking. Our guide (Glasgow Guy) sorry I can't remember his name but he was bloody brilliant. His interaction with us was top notch. Not to mention his witty sense of humour. 😁would highly recommend. Loved every minute.
A great informative tour
Sunshine06840964643,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00As this was our first time in Edinburgh, this was something my future wife has wanted to do for years……it didn’t disappoint! We found it very entertaining, educational and worth the money!
Interesting tour
Rebecca V,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00James was our tour guide he was entertaining and told some great stories. Engaging and knowledgeable about the history.
Was a really good fun ...
Evangelia F,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Was a really good fun experience the vaults had an interesting story behind the our tour guide James was amazing
Must do in Edinburgh!
joelyi2021,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time in the vaults, learning about the paranormal history of Edinburgh. James our tour guide was so passionate and enthusiastic. We could have spent another hour there!!
Fantastic underground Tour
Marlborough paul,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I have always wanted to go to the underground Vaults in Edinburgh and today I did what an amazing experience. Our Guide was a guy called Joshua and what a very knowledgeable guy he was he took us into the vaults and explained all the history behind what went on. The tour lasts about 1hr and is priced at £24 each if you haven’t visited this place it’s well worth going to see thanks again Paul & Donna
Best tour guide James
shaunbP4013JV,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had James as are tour guide and he was amazing he made exspreance that much more he was fun funny great character and really new his stuff had an amazing time
Fascinating!
Carrie R,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour! Someone recommended this to me and I didn’t look anything up. The history was fascinating! Jordon was a great guide
An informative trip
Jean W,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The trip is not suitable for people who are infirm and unable to climb steps. For us it was fine and our guide Lisa was full of enthusiasm and fun, making the experience worth it.
Joshua was absolutely...
Rachel K,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Joshua was absolutely amazing, kept the tour interesting and overall was just an amazing tour guide that made the tour so positive.
From £24.00
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Operated by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd