Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends

Exploring Edinburgh’s Dark Side: The Ultimate Guide to the Darkside Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and are drawn to tales of mystery, murder, and haunted legends, the Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour might just be your perfect ticket. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand myself, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a captivating journey through one of the UK’s most storied cities—full of shadowy alleys, gruesome histories, and intriguing stories.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who bring these dark tales vividly to life. Second, the stunning views from Calton Hill add a compelling visual element to the storytelling. But, like any experience, there are some considerations—most notably the large group sizes sometimes making it harder to catch every word or fully enjoy quieter moments. If you love history mixed with a dash of spooky fun, this tour probably deserves a spot on your Edinburgh itinerary.

That said, it’s best suited for those who enjoy walking tours with a historical twist, appreciate dark humor, or are simply curious about the city’s shadowy past. Families with older kids might find it fascinating, but it’s definitely geared more towards adults or teens interested in ghost stories and macabre history. Now, let’s unpack what this tour entails so you can decide if it’s the right fit.

Key Points

• Highly rated at 5.0 based on nearly 3,700 reviews, with 94% recommending it.
• Affordable price point at around $27.67 per person for a two-hour adventure.
• Expert guides who are praised for their storytelling skills and knowledge.
• A mix of history and legends, including witch trials, body-snatching, and urban myths.
• Stunning panoramic views from Calton Hill, combined with eerie cemetery visits.
• Group size can be large, which may impact the experience depending on your preference.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

This ghostly walk begins in the evening on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, a lively yet atmospheric main street of Old Town. From the start, you’ll be introduced to the city’s darker tales—stories of murderers, monsters, and supernatural occurrences, all delivered with lively narration by your guide. The tour is designed to mix storytelling with sightseeing, giving you a taste of Edinburgh’s haunted history in a manageable two-hour stroll.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at the Royal Mile

Your journey kicks off here, where the guide will meet you and set the tone with stories of the city’s more sinister past. The Royal Mile itself is full of history, but the tour focuses on its shadowy side, highlighting alleys and courtyards with stories of executions and ghostly legends. Reviewers like Katelyn praise this as a “great way to see the city and learn about history with a little bit of darkness,” which suggests the storytelling is engaging and well-paced.

North Bridge and Calton Hill

Next, you’ll wind through darkened alleys to North Bridge, a site with its own haunted reputation. The guide shares tales of past executions, torture, and the city’s notorious witch trials. Then, you’ll climb Calton Hill—an area historically associated with pagan rituals and witch trials. This part offers panoramic views of Edinburgh, making it a worthwhile stop even for those less interested in ghost stories. As Kelsey mentions, “it’s a bit of a walk but well worth it,” especially for the views and the sense of history.

Old Calton Burial Ground & Canongate Kirkyard

Your next stops are two of Edinburgh’s oldest cemeteries. The Old Calton Burial Ground is the resting place of famous figures like David Hume, whose legend includes tales of making a deal with the devil. The tour also covers body-snatching history linked to Burke and Hare, infamous for supplying corpses to medical schools. Alternatively, the Canongate Kirkyard offers a quieter setting for more stories of the city’s dark past. Multiple reviews highlight how much they enjoy these visits, with Niamh, one of the guides, often praised for her storytelling and engagement.

The Atmosphere & Experience

This isn’t a scripted performance with costumes or staged scares, but rather an authentic, historical storytelling experience. Expect to walk through shadowed streets, hear gripping stories filled with grisly details, and perhaps (if you’re lucky) encounter a spooky character or two. The walk is designed to be easy and accessible, with most reviewers noting it’s a gentle pace, perfect for broad audiences.

The End & Post-Tour Options

The tour concludes back at the Royal Mile at a local pub, where you can opt to enjoy a drink and mull over the stories in a cozy setting. Many reviews emphasize the friendly guides, who not only entertain but also offer recommendations on where to eat or drink afterward.

The Real Value of the Tour

At just under $28, this tour offers a solid value for those interested in Edinburgh’s darker history and atmospheric storytelling. The two-hour walking experience covers key sites and stories that you might overlook on your own. The inclusion of panoramic views from Calton Hill, along with cemetery visits, adds a visual element that keeps the experience engaging.

Given the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides’ storytelling skills are a major highlight. People often mention how their guides brought the stories alive with humor and detailed knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational. The mix of history, legends, and sights ensures your time in Edinburgh is well-rounded.

However, some reviews note that the large group size can make hearing the guide difficult at times. If you prefer smaller, more intimate tours, this is a point worth considering. Also, be prepared for some walking; although described as not overly strenuous, it is a two-hour walk through cobbled streets and hills.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of history, mystery, and storytelling. It’s ideal if you enjoy exploring old cities at night, listening to ghost stories, and learning about the city’s darker past. Perfect for those who appreciate panoramic views and cemeteries with stories to tell.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older kids with an interest in history or spooky tales might find it captivating. But if you’re traveling with very young children, this might be a bit too dark or slow-paced.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour starts at 6:30 pm at 130 High Street, Edinburgh.
• It lasts approximately 2 hours and involves a walk through cobblestone streets and hills.
• The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate—though some reviews mention it can get large.
• No transportation is included, so be prepared to walk or organize your own arrival and departure.
• The tour is mobile ticketed, making check-in straightforward.
• Booking 24 days in advance is typical, so plan ahead if you want a spot.
• The tour ends back at the Royal Mile, where you can choose to stay for a drink or continue exploring.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour offers a compelling mix of history, legends, and atmospheric sights. Led by guides who are praised for their engaging storytelling, it’s a fantastic way for those with a curiosity for the macabre to see the city from a different perspective. The panoramic views from Calton Hill and visits to historic cemeteries add a visual and emotional depth that many travelers find memorable.

This tour is best suited for adults or older teens who enjoy ghost stories, dark history, and walking adventures. It’s a budget-friendly activity that provides a rich narrative experience without feeling overly commercialized or staged. If you’re interested in Edinburgh’s spooky stories and want a guided exploration that combines history with a touch of mystery, this tour is well worth considering.

For those who prefer smaller groups or a more theatrical experience, you might want to look elsewhere, but many reviews emphasize the guide’s expertise and the overall atmosphere as major highlights. Prepare for a walk, a few chilling tales, and some stunning city views—you won’t regret it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children or teens interested in spooky stories and history should enjoy it. Very young children might find it too dark or slow.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, including walking and stops at key sites around Edinburgh’s Old Town.

What’s the price?
The tour costs approximately $27.67 per person, offering good value considering the storytelling, sights, and panoramic views included.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour, so you’ll be on foot for the entire experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 130 High Street on the Royal Mile and concludes back at the same location.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour’s dark themes are best suited for older teens and adults.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

If you’re after a mix of spooky stories, historical insights, and stunning views, this tour might just be the highlight of your Edinburgh trip. Just remember, a sense of adventure and an open mind will make it all the more fun.