Ghostly Tales of Edinburgh's Royal Mile

Free cancellation

Place: Edinburgh

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Language: English

Mobile voucher accepted

Instant confirmation

Subject expert guide

e-Voucher

Group tour

Wheelchair accessible

Do this because

Stay above the ground to follow the fate of villains and victims from the city's dark past
Discover who still haunts the streets today, from criminal characters to sorrowful spirits
Take part in a tour tailored for guests with mobility and sensory needs, accessible to all
Delve into the gore of Old Town Edinburgh’s darkest deeds and crooked characters
Get immersed and lost in the stories with exclusive audio devices and headphones

What to expect

Imagine the spot where the gallows once stood; a stage in the midst of a baying crowd. A rope slipped over a bagged head, cinched tight. The air falls quiet. A lever creaks, the trapdoor clatters, the rope snaps taut…

On this ghost tour, you’ll hear of villains and victims from the city's dark past. There will be stories of those who haunt shadowed streets — criminals, murderers and unsuspecting innocents — all while traveling to the very places they lived… and for some, met their untimely end. Starting at the Mercat Cross, a place with a mixed history of horror and entertainment, you’ll hear tales of the restless souls set loose in the city, all while remaining above ground in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

The Royal Mile may be picturesque, but there is more to its streets than meets the eye. Led by a cloaked storyteller you’ll explore the difficult and grim lives of those living amongst the cobbled closes. You’ll hear how the Edinburgh Mob took an execution into their own hands, the truth behind the ghastly apparition of Johnny One Arm and the reason you should be fearful if there is a certain number on the door of your accommodation.

This tour transports you to 1800s Edinburgh: clues hidden in stonework, gruesome spectacles of punishments and deadly consequences and stories of those whose torment continued into the grave.

Important to know

Not suitable for:

Children under the age of 5

Not allowed:

Strollers
Pets (only service dogs are welcome on this tour)
Suitcases and large rucksacks

Know in advance:

The maximum number of participants is 18 people
Audio devices and headphones will be issued for an immersive experience
This tour runs in all weather conditions, please dress accordingly to the weather. Comfortable walking shoes are advised
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your tour to allow time to check-in
Tour ends: Old Town High Street, EH1

Remember to bring: