Old Town Historical and Underground Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s captivating past on the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour. Led by knowledgeable experts, this intimate 90-minute journey delves into the city’s medieval heart, uncovering hidden closes and eerie vaults that hold the secrets to its dramatic history. With a remarkable 95% recommendation rate, this exclusive tour offers insightful storytelling and a chance to gain a deeper understanding of Edinburgh’s rich cultural heritage. Step into the shadows of the past and uncover the remarkable story that lies beneath the surface.

Key Points

• A 90-minute guided tour of Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town, led by a PhD holder or experienced guide.
• Exclusive access to the city’s eerie underground vaults, offering a rare glimpse into hidden spaces.
• Engaging storytelling that vividly brings Edinburgh’s dramatic history and notable figures to life.
• Maximum group size of 6 travelers, providing a more intimate and immersive experience.
• Highly recommended by travelers, with a 95% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Tour Overview

The Old Town Historical and Underground Tour offers visitors a 90-minute exploration of Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town, hidden closes, and courtyards.

Located in Edinburgh, Scotland, the tour is led by a PhD holder in Scottish history or an experienced guide. Priced from $24.35 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 6 travelers.

With 990 total reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, the tour provides an engaging experience that delves into the city’s dramatic history and notable figures.

Highlights include access to exclusive sections of underground vaults and immersive storytelling that brings the past to life.

Guided Experience

How does the guided experience of the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour unfold?

Led by an expert in Scottish history or an experienced guide, the tour takes visitors on a relaxed stroll through Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town. The guide’s engaging storytelling brings the city’s past to life, offering insights often overlooked by other tours.

Key aspects of the experience include:

1. Exploring hidden closes and courtyards that offer a unique glimpse into the city’s history.

2. Visiting the atmospheric Canongate Kirkyard and eerie underground vaults.

3. Encouraging questions and discussion to deepen understanding of Edinburgh’s complex narrative.

Tour Highlights

A highlight of the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour is the opportunity to learn about the dramatic events and notable figures that have shaped Edinburgh’s captivating history.

Guests are treated to engaging storytelling that brings the city’s past vividly to life. The tour emphasizes both the good and bad aspects of Edinburgh’s history, providing a nuanced understanding.

Visitors also gain exclusive access to the underground vaults, offering a rare glimpse into the hidden spaces that have witnessed the city’s triumphs and tribulations.

This immersive experience leaves guests with a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s rich heritage.

Reviews and Feedback

According to traveler reviews, the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers are particularly enthusiastic about the guide’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and humor, with many noting memorable interactions and informative content.

The tour highlights include:

1. Exclusive access to the city’s underground vaults
2. Engaging storytelling that brings Edinburgh’s dramatic history to life
3. An emphasis on both the positive and negative aspects of the city’s past

While some feedback points to issues with group size and humor style, the vast majority of travelers recommend this tour as an immersive and illuminating experience.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point for the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour is located at 124 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS, UK.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

Travelers can reach the meeting point via public transportation, as it’s conveniently situated.

Bookings come with confirmation, and participants can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

The tour is operated by City of Edinburgh Tours, a reputable company that offers an engaging and informative exploration of Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town and its hidden histories.

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can easily book the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour on the City of Edinburgh Tours website.

Confirmation is received upon booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience. This gives visitors flexibility in planning their Edinburgh itinerary.

The tour’s key benefits include:

1. Stress-free booking process
2. Ability to cancel without penalty
3. Confidence in securing a spot on this popular tour

Operator Information

City of Edinburgh Tours operates the Old Town Historical and Underground Tour. They employ PhD holders in Scottish history or experienced guides to lead the 90-minute tour through Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town.

The tour focuses on the city’s hidden closes and courtyards, providing an in-depth look at the dramatic events and notable figures in its past. Guests can expect a relaxed pace with opportunities for questions and discussion.

The tour includes visits to the Canongate Kirkyard and underground vaults, offering exclusive access and engaging storytelling that brings history to life.

Historical Significance

Edinburgh’s Old Town has long been a hub of historical significance, tracing its roots back to the medieval era.

The guided tour explores the dramatic events and notable figures that have shaped the city’s tumultuous past. Visitors can expect to:

1. Learn about the area’s grim history, including notorious incidents like the Burke and Hare murders.
2. Uncover the secrets hidden within the underground vaults, once used for storage and as shelter.
3. Gain a deeper understanding of Scotland’s complex heritage, both its triumphs and tragedies.

The tour’s engaging storytelling and exclusive access to rarely seen locations provide an immersive experience that brings Edinburgh’s past to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Strenuous Is the Walking During the Tour?

The walking during the tour is relaxed, allowing participants to move at a comfortable pace and explore the sights. However, visitors should be prepared for some uneven surfaces and stairs, though the overall physical demands are moderate.

Can Photography Be Allowed During the Underground Segment?

Guests can generally take photographs during the underground segment of the tour, though photography may be restricted in certain areas for safety and preservation reasons. It’s best to check with the tour guide on the day.

Is There an Age Limit or Requirement for This Tour?

There’s no age limit or requirement for this tour. It’s suitable for all ages, though parental discretion is advised as some content may not be appropriate for young children. Families and children are welcome to participate.

What Items Should I Bring to Enhance the Experience?

To enhance the experience, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera to capture the historic sites, and any questions they have about Edinburgh’s rich past. A light jacket is also recommended for the underground sections.

Do the Underground Vaults Have Any Accessibility Options?

The underground vaults are not wheelchair accessible. However, the tour operator notes that service animals are allowed. Visitors with mobility concerns should speak with the tour provider to discuss any special accommodations that may be available.

The Sum Up

The Old Town Historical and Underground Tour offers a captivating journey through Edinburgh’s medieval past. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this intimate experience delves into the city’s hidden corners and eerie underground vaults, providing exclusive insights into its rich heritage. With an impressive 95% recommendation rate, the tour offers a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, making it a must-do for those seeking to uncover the dramatic history of Edinburgh’s old town.