Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

If you’re planning a visit to Edinburgh and want to explore beyond the usual sights, a tour of the underground vaults beneath the Old Town might just be the adventure you’re looking for. This experience, rated highly by thousands of fellow travelers, offers a peek into the city’s shadowy past, revealing stories that are often missed on standard tours.

What we love about this tour is its combination of history and atmosphere—the dark passageways and ghost stories make it genuinely captivating. Plus, the guides are often praised for their engaging storytelling and knowledge, which can really elevate the experience. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite dark and can be a little unsettling for some, especially if you’re faint of heart or traveling with very young children.

This isn’t a tour for everyone—if you’re sensitive to spooky stories or have difficulty walking on uneven, sometimes tight spaces, it’s worth considering these factors. But if you’re curious about Edinburgh’s lesser-seen history and enjoy a bit of mystery, this walk through the underground vaults is likely to hit the spot. It’s especially suited for adults and older children who can handle a bit of eerie storytelling and uneven terrain.

Key Points

• Highly rated experience with over 7,400 reviews and a solid 4.5/5 rating
• Affordable price at around $30 per person, offering good value for a quick, engaging hour of exploration
• Guided tour led by knowledgeable guides who keep the stories lively and engaging
• Dark, atmospheric setting perfect for those interested in ghost stories, history, and Edinburgh’s secret past
• Accessible meeting points in Edinburgh’s Old Town, close to public transportation
• Limited duration—about one hour—making it a manageable addition to your sightseeing day

What to Expect from the Underground Vaults Walking Tour

This tour starts at the 300 Lawnmarket in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. From there, you and your group will follow your guide down below street level into a maze of ancient vaults built beneath the South Bridge. The steps into the vaults are modest—just a two-foot step followed by a spiral staircase, so it’s manageable for most, but not ideal if you have mobility issues or trouble with uneven terrain.

Once underground, you’ll wander through winding passageways that reveal the dark history of these spaces. The vaults were originally built in the 18th century to store goods, but over time, they became a refuge for Edinburgh’s impoverished and, reportedly, a hotspot for criminal activities. Your guide will fill in the story of why they were built and why they were abandoned, painting a picture of city life in those turbulent times.

As you explore, you will hear about the poor souls who sought shelter and the often grim conditions they endured. Some sections of the vaults are haunted—many visitors report ghostly sightings, which adds a spooky layer to the experience. You might be invited to enter a stone circle or visit a former witchcraft temple, which are among the highlights for those intrigued by Edinburgh’s darker legends.

Many reviews mention how atmospheric and even eerie the vaults feel, especially in certain spots that are unlit and cramped. The guides often enhance the storytelling with dramatizations, making it feel like you’re stepping back in time.

The Stories and History Behind the Vaults

The historical content shared during the tour varies but often includes tales of crime, hardship, and superstition. Guests have appreciated the way guides connect these stories to the physical spaces. For example, one reviewer says, “Our tour guide was Sophie, she was lovely, funny and made the experience unique,” which highlights how engaging guides can make a big difference.

Another traveler noted that the guide was “charming and welcoming,” with a delivery that was “Broadway level,” making the dark stories more entertaining yet educational. Several reviews commend the guides for their knowledge and delivery, creating a balance between spooky tales and historical context.

However, some visitors found the content to be a bit overwhelming or too focused on supernatural stories rather than detailed history. One reviewer said, “The tour was not as advertised and our guide was so annoying—very little historical facts apart from witches,” highlighting that experiences can vary depending on the guide.

It’s also worth mentioning that the vaults’ environment can be quite stuffy and damp—a typical underground setting—and some people with anxiety about enclosed spaces might find it less comfortable. But for most, the darkness and history combine to create a memorable experience.

The Experience and Atmosphere

What makes this tour stand out is the atmosphere. You’ll walk through narrow, dimly lit spaces that feel unlike any above-ground sightseeing. The cool, dark air combined with the stories of ghost sightings and grim pasts can make it quite compelling.

Several reviews point out that the guides are a big part of what makes this experience enjoyable. They’re often described as fun, engaging, and well-informed, capable of juggling storytelling with practical info. “Brendon was charming and kept the group engaged,” a reviewer mentioned, emphasizing that the tour isn’t just about the dark spaces but about the storytelling.

The timing—just about an hour—is perfect for those who want a quick but memorable excursion. It’s not a deep historical immersion, but it’s enough to give you a sense of Edinburgh’s darker side.

Practical Details and Value

At around $30, the price point is quite reasonable considering the guided nature of the tour and the unique underground setting. Given the high volume of reviews and the consistent ratings, it’s clear most find the experience worth the cost.

The meeting point at Lawnmarket is central, with easy access via public transportation, making it convenient to include in your day. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the terrain—narrow passageways, steps, and uneven floors mean it’s not ideal for those with mobility difficulties.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and it’s not suitable for kids under 5 or under 2. The dark environment and potentially distressing tales mean it’s better suited for teenagers and adults.

The tour is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re fascinated by ghost stories, haunted locations, and hidden history, you’ll find this tour compelling. It’s especially great if you enjoy a theatrical storytelling style and don’t mind a bit of darkness or spooky ambiance.

History buffs who appreciate a lighter, atmospheric take on Edinburgh’s past will enjoy the stories about criminals, witchcraft, and the city’s grim underbelly. For those who tend to shy away from anything spooky or sensitive to enclosed, dark spaces, it might be less appealing.

The tour is also suitable for travelers looking for a quick, engaging activity that adds a different perspective to their Edinburgh trip. It pairs well with other city explorations but works as a standalone highlight for those interested in Edinburgh’s mysterious side.

The Sum Up

The Underground Vaults Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s underground past, blending history, ghost stories, and atmospheric surroundings. With knowledgeable guides and a compelling setting, it elevates what could otherwise be a simple sightseeing stop into a memorable experience. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy stories of hardship, crime, and the supernatural, and who aren’t discouraged by narrow underground passageways or spooky tales.

For around $30, you’re getting a well-rated, engaging one-hour tour that is often praised for its storytelling and atmosphere. The dark, mysterious environment makes it stand out from typical city walks and offers a different angle on Edinburgh’s history. Keep in mind the terrain and environment, and you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the city’s more unique attractions.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, fans of haunted stories, and curious travelers wanting to see a side of Edinburgh that’s usually hidden away—literally underground. Whether you believe in ghosts or simply love a good story, it’s a memorable way to experience Edinburgh’s darker chapters.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and it’s generally better suited for older kids and teenagers due to the dark environment and spooky stories. It’s not recommended for kids under 5 or under 2 years old.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick but immersive experience.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at 300 Lawnmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a central location near public transportation.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The entrance involves a small step and a spiral staircase, and inside, some mezzanine staircases of 5–7 steps. If you have difficulty with stairs or uneven terrain, consider this before booking.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and warmly, as underground vaults can be cold and damp. Good shoes are advisable given uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
It’s a walking tour, but the pace is manageable. The terrain can be narrow and uneven, so be prepared for some light physical activity.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 5 aren’t recommended. Children under 2 are not allowed on the tour.

If you’re drawn to stories of Edinburgh’s shadowy past and enjoy atmospheric settings, this underground vaults walk is worth considering. It’s a lively, spooky, and memorable way to see a different side of the city.