Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

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...

• Professional guide

• Gratuities

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Most travelers can participate
• 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• • Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death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.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 36 travelers
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking

300 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PH, UK

45 Niddry St, Edinburgh EH1 1LG, UK

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

1 hour