Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders

Edinburgh’s haunting past comes alive on the Ghost Tour, where visitors explore the city’s eerie sites and uncover its grim history. From gruesome murders to supernatural folklore, knowledgeable guides weave captivating stories that transport participants back in time. Strolling along the historic Royal Mile, the tour takes guests to locations like Old Calton Cemetery, where the restless spirits of the city’s past are said to linger. With complimentary coffee or tea in hand, the journey into Edinburgh’s dark history promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour exploring Edinburgh’s dark past, focusing on mysteries, legends, murders, corpses, serial killers, witches, and fairies.
• Key locations include the Royal Mile, Old Calton Cemetery, and Canongate Kirkyard, where guides weave together history and supernatural folklore.
• Tour covers gruesome murders, the presence of witches and fairies, and stories of serial killers and unexplained phenomena.
• Spine-chilling tales of restless spirits, including the ghost of "Bloody" Mackenzie, and the history of Old Calton Cemetery.
• Immersive experience into Edinburgh’s macabre history, with knowledgeable guides and unique storytelling.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This guided walking ghost tour in Edinburgh allows visitors to explore the city’s dark past, including mysteries, legends, murders, corpses, serial killers, witches, and fairies.

The tour visits key locations like the Royal Mile, Old Calton Cemetery, and Canongate Kirkyard.

With 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour offers an engaging and informative experience.

The 391 reviews praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides, unique storytelling, and historical insights.

While some note it leans more towards history than supernatural elements, the tour is described as memorable and enjoyable overall.

Key Locations on the Ghost Tour

The tour visits several key locations throughout Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, allowing participants to enjoy the city’s haunting past.

The first stop is the Royal Mile, the famous cobblestone street lined with centuries-old buildings that have witnessed countless tragedies.

Next, the group heads to the Old Calton Cemetery, where they’ll learn about the restless spirits that linger among the eerie gravestones.

The final destination is the Canongate Kirkyard, a cemetery steeped in dark legends and tales of the macabre.

Throughout the tour, the guide weaves together the city’s rich history and supernatural folklore.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Dark Past

Edinburgh’s dark history is rife with tales of mystery, horror, and the supernatural. The guided ghost tour explores these chilling narratives, from gruesome murders to the lingering presence of witches and fairies.

Visitors will uncover the macabre past of the Royal Mile, Old Calton Cemetery, and Canongate Kirkyard. Hear the stories of serial killers, corpses, and unexplained phenomena that have haunted these historic sites for centuries.

The tour’s skilled storytellers bring these grim legends to life, offering a captivating glimpse into Edinburgh’s sinister underbelly. Prepare to be enlightened and unsettled by the city’s darkest secrets.

Uncovering Mysteries and Legends

As visitors embark on the Edinburgh Ghost Tour, they uncover a tapestry of mysteries and legends that have captivated the city for centuries.

From the Royal Mile to the Old Calton Cemetery, the tour guides weave tales of unsolved murders, the paranormal activities of alleged witches, and the haunting presence of fairies.

Travelers are enthralled by the darkest chapters of Edinburgh’s past, learning about notorious serial killers and the city’s macabre history.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s hidden corners and uncover the secrets that have long been buried, leaving a lasting impression on all who dare to venture into the unknown.

Encounters With Ghosts, Corpses, and Serial Killers

While traversing the dimly lit streets, tour-goers encounter spine-chilling tales of restless spirits lingering in the shadows.

Guides recount the harrowing story of "Bloody" Mackenzie, a notorious 17th-century lawyer whose vengeful ghost haunts the Covenanter’s Prison.

Travelers shudder as they learn about the unsettling history of the Old Calton Cemetery, where the remains of executed criminals were once displayed.

Gasps erupt when the guide describes the grisly murders committed by the infamous serial killer, Burke and Hare, whose victims were sold to medical schools for dissection.

The tour immerses visitors in Edinburgh’s macabre past.

The Harrowing History of Witches and Fairies

Delving deeper into Edinburgh’s haunted past, the tour guides captivate visitors with tales of the city’s harrowing history with witches and fairies.

Travelers learn about the infamous North Berwick witch trials, where dozens of accused women were executed for their supposed pacts with the devil.

The tour also explores the mysterious world of Scottish fairies, from mischievous brownies to the sinister seelie and unseelie courts.

Guides recount chilling accounts of mortals who’ve encountered these supernatural beings, warning of the perils of angering the fae.

Throughout the tour, a sense of unease settles over the group as they confront Edinburgh’s dark occult legacy.

Tour Details and Logistics

The meeting point for the Edinburgh Ghost Tour is 351 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1PW, directly opposite St. Giles’ Cathedral.

The tour ends at Canongate, Edinburgh EH8.

The maximum group size is 35 travelers, and the tour price starts from $20.59 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Confirmation is received upon booking, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s near public transport.

While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for pregnant individuals.

The tour includes coffee/tea and a knowledgeable guide.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

The Edinburgh Ghost Tour has received an impressive average rating of 4.9 based on 391 reviews.

Travelers praise the engaging and knowledgeable guides, who bring the city’s dark history to life with unique storytelling and historical insights.

Highlights include exploring key locations like the Royal Mile and encountering mysteries, legends, and tales of murder and the supernatural.

While some feedback notes the tour leaned more toward a history lesson than a purely ghost-focused experience, many described the overall tour as memorable, fun, and informative.

Since You Asked

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 35 travelers, indicating the minimum group size is less than 35. The small group size allows for an intimate and engaging experience.

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is 35 travelers, but it doesn’t specify whether children are allowed. The information provided doesn’t mention any age restrictions, so children may be permitted to join the tour.

Can Participants Take Photos During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, though guides may ask them to refrain in certain areas out of respect for the surroundings or to avoid disrupting the tour experience. It’s best to check with the guide beforehand.

Is the Tour Offered in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is offered in English only. It doesn’t mention any availability in other languages. Travelers who don’t speak English may want to check for alternative tours or options that accommodate their language preferences.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Travelers should dress comfortably in weather-appropriate clothing as the tour involves walking outdoors. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing for the elements is recommended.

The Sum Up

The Edinburgh Ghost Tour offers a chilling exploration of the city’s haunting past. Visitors can explore the mysteries, legends, and gruesome murders that have shaped Edinburgh’s dark history. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, the tour takes participants through eerie sites, where supernatural folklore and tales of serial killers come to life. Whether seeking an unforgettable journey or a deeper understanding of the city’s haunting heritage, this tour provides an immersive and captivating experience.