4.7 (9.6 k) · Edinburgh · By Auld Reekie Tours Ltd Free cancellation
Embark on a journey along Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, uncovering tales of the city's darker past. You'll then venture into the notorious, hidden vaults beneath the South Bridge in Edinburgh's Old Town, rumored to be haunted.
Discover the stories of the poor and unfortunate who once resided in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults by candlelight, once frequented by criminals, body snatchers, and witches. Some believe the spirits of these former inhabitants still linger.
Each vault holds stories of crime, disease, and death. Your guide will share all the grim details with you. You will witness a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by a Wiccan coven, and step inside their former sacred space. Learn why it is no longer safe for them to practice their craft in this particular vault.
Do you dare to enter the infamous stone circle?
✓ Professional guide✓ Haunted vault visit✓ Live English-speaking guide✕ Gratuities✕ Food and drinks✕ Transportation to/from meeting pointTour Itinerary
The renowned vaults beneath Edinburgh's South Bridge are an architectural marvel, spanning nineteen stone arches. Join our expert guide to learn about their construction and eventual abandonment.
Hear accounts of how Edinburgh's homeless and destitute found refuge in these underground spaces. What was daily life like in the darkness? Who were the criminals that roamed the vaults, and what were their motives? Explore the candlelit Niddry's Wynd, a street now lost to modern maps, accompanied by your costumed guide.
The tour begins at the Tron Kirk on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. You'll learn about the city in the 1700s, the diseases that plagued its dense population, and the methods of waste disposal. You will see the actual temple used by the “Source Coven of the Blue Dragon” and enter their former sanctuary. It is advisable to listen carefully to your guide before deciding to step inside the haunted stone circle!
We invite you to experience the chilling atmosphere of the Haunted Vault itself, the location of most reported sightings. Will you be brave enough to enter?
Photographs are encouraged; you might even capture a ghostly image! Please share your experiences with us after the tour.
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
The tour commences at the Red Telephone Box and Tourist Information Police Box, located opposite Deacon Brodie’s Tavern at 300 Lawnmarket.
Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will begin promptly.
Meet at the Red Telephone box and Tourist Information ticket booth outside of 300 Lawnmarket, EH1 2PH. This is on the opposite side of the road to Deacon Brodies Tavern.
Please be 5-10 minutes early as tours will always depart on time.
Service animals are permitted. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby. This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This tour is not suitable for children under 5 years of age; children under 2 years are not permitted. Access to the vaults involves stepping over a 2-foot high threshold followed by a single flight of spiral stairs. Inside the vaults, mezzanine staircases with 5-7 steps connect different levels. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited. Individuals under the influence will be denied entry. Non-service animals are not allowed on the tour. Some historical content may be disturbing, including themes of torture, hangings, and death. The walking pace and uneven terrain might be challenging for those with mobility issues. There is no luggage storage available; please make alternative arrangements. There are no toilet facilities or scheduled toilet breaks during the tour. Arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes early. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. Bring a camera to capture the atmospheric surroundings. Be prepared for potentially distressing historical content. Listen carefully to the guide's instructions, especially regarding the stone circle. Dress in layers as underground temperatures can vary. For a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 8752P1
Activity offered by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center History enthusiasts Fans of the paranormal Adults seeking unique experiences Visitors interested in local folklore Explore Edinburgh's hidden underground vaults. Hear chilling tales of the city's dark history. Visit a genuine witchcraft temple. Guided by a costumed historical interpreter. Discover the secrets of the South Bridge vaults. Experience a unique and atmospheric tour.
Population 488,050 (2016)
Elevation 47 m
Currency pound sterling
Driving on the left
Power plugs G · 230 V
Emergency number 999
Capital city London Average temperatures 3° Jan 3° Feb 5° Mar 7° Apr 10° May 13° Jun 14° Jul 14° Aug 12° Sept 9° Oct 6° Nov 4° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the tour? + The tour lasts for 1 hour.
Is there a maximum group size? + The maximum group size is 36 participants.
Are service animals allowed? + Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.
What is the cancellation policy? + You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Are there any age restrictions for children? + Children under 5 are not suitable for this tour, and children under 2 are not allowed.
What should I do if I am late for the tour? + The tour departs on time, so please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Latecomers may not be able to join.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great experience
Tazz21, October 2026
Great tour, Stewart was a great tour guide. He made it interesting and fun. It’s an incredible part of Edinburgh you wouldn’t know existed.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great time!
brandicI7607IP, October 2026
Fun tour! Tour guide Louisa was great!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Edinburgh city walking tour and underground Vaults
tracyjanew2020, October 2026
Really enjoyed this tour. Louisa was an excellent guide , very informative and brought the history of the city alive.
★★★★★ Viator review
This was more about...
Licia_F, October 2026
This was more about ghosts than building and history. Also the step into the caves should be noted for elderly people or those with less accessibility .
However your guide Lisa was good
★★★★★ Viator review
Ghosts and Garde Loo!
Brian_S, October 2026
View of the Cowgate vaults built for merchants that ended up housing the homeless. Guide discussed ghosts which I am not personally interested in. Tour was light on content which is ashame because with a little research and planning a living history of homelessness in Victorian Edinburgh would have been fascinating. The cowgate slum was known as Little Ireland. A story about irish emigration like at the tenement museum in NYC could be done here with some planning and research
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