Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour

Edinburgh , Scotland

Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults & Graveyard Ghost Tour

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About this experience

Experience the eerie and frightening atmosphere of the haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults, which Mercat Tours has exclusive access to. Beware, though, for maybe those whispers you hear aren't just in your head...

It might be something to do with the change in temperature. Or the perpetual darkness. Or the ever smaller rooms, stretching beyond the weak beam of a torch or flicker of candlelight. Whatever the reason, there’s something unsettling about the Blair Street Underground Vaults — and your master Storyteller will reveal the troubling tales on this underground Edinburgh ghost tour.

From there, it’s on to the spooky Canongate graveyard, where the spirits of the dead await.

On this Edinburgh underground vaults and graveyard ghost tour, you’ll hear countless tales of dastardly deeds and ghostly sightings in the very places where they occurred.

Available options

Small Group Scheduled Tour

Maximum group size of 18

What's included

Adults-only (18+) Ghost Tour

Small group experience

Visit to Canongate Graveyard

Exclusive access to Blair Street Underground Vaults

Enhanced with hand-picked sounds of Edinburgh and delivered through TourTalk audio devices

Exclusive multi-sensory tours; with master Storyteller guides

Detailed itinerary

Tour meeting point - The distant sound of a rope pulled tight, the scraping of a foot behind you, a crowd baying for blood in the distance. Explore the dim close and wynds of Old Town Edinburgh and learn of the unsavoury characters who used to occupy these streets.

Stop 3

A walk through shadowy closes to the Canongate graveyard will bring you to the resting place of Edinburgh’s most famous figures, many of whom met a tragic and gruesome end. Adam Smith, the father of economics; David Rizzio, confidant of Mary, Queen of Scots; and James Douglas, 3rd Marquess of Queensberry — the infamous cannibal of the Canongate.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

40 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

409 reviews

5★

354

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tours are guaranteed all year round, so please dress for the weather, with comfortable shoes.

Meeting point

Tour starts from the Mercat Cross - the 8 sided stone monument with a Unicorn on top Opposite the City Chambers, High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, UK

Important notes

To provide a fully immersive experience, we'll provide a personal audio device. Your Storyteller will use a headset with microphone to ensure you hear every word over the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh's lively Old Town. You are welcome to bring your own headphones (3.5mm jack) or use a pair of ours.

Please arrive at the Mercat Cross on The Royal Mile (High Street) EH1 1RF, 15 minutes before the start of your tour and check-in with the on-street representative from Mercat Tours.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture