Edinburgh Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault

Planning a trip to Edinburgh? If you’re curious about the city’s haunted tales, secret underground chambers, and the stories of those accused of witchcraft, this tour might just be your perfect fit. We’ve come across plenty of reviews praising its storytelling and unique perspective, and from what we gather, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s shadowy past.

What really makes this experience stand out is the passionate guides who bring history to life — often with humor and empathy — and the opportunity to explore lesser-visited parts of the Old Town. The inclusion of the underground vaults adds a tangible sense of mystery, making this a memorable outing for history buffs and casual explorers alike. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the pace and physicality involved; cobbled streets and some steps mean it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet.

This tour is particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, fans of spooky stories, or travelers looking for a different way to see Edinburgh beyond its main attractions. It’s also a great choice if you’re keen to avoid the crowds and get a more intimate, storytelling-focused experience. If you love stories about the city’s darker side, this walk is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Engaging storytelling by passionate guides makes the dark history of Edinburgh come alive
• Affordable price point offers good value for a 75-minute tour plus underground vault visit
• Lesser-known sights and underground vaults provide a unique perspective beyond typical tourist spots
• Physical considerations are important — expect cobbles, stairs, and some walking
• Highly rated guides like Angelica, Juniper, and Agatha receive praise for their knowledge and humor
• Perfect for history lovers, fans of spooky stories, and those wanting an offbeat experience

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Introduction: What’s the Tour All About?

This walking tour invites you to explore the darker, more mysterious side of Edinburgh’s Old Town. For just over an hour, you’ll follow a knowledgeable guide through some of the city’s most storied locations, hearing tales of witches, warlocks, and legends that have shaped Edinburgh’s identity. What makes this experience particularly appealing is the storytelling approach — it’s lively, humorous, and delivered with genuine passion.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the inclusion of lesser-visited sites—like the Witches Well and hidden closes—and the interactive underground vault visit at the end. The vaults, dating back to 1742, give a real sense of history you can almost touch, cloaked in the mystery of Edinburgh’s fire and fire-scarred streets. The tour’s cost, around $25 per person, seems fair given the quality of storytelling and the exclusive access to the vaults.

However, one thing to consider is the physicality involved; cobbled streets and uneven surfaces mean those with mobility issues might want to think twice. The tour isn’t designed to be strenuous, but it does involve some walking and standing, often on historic streets.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history buff, a fan of spooky stories, or someone interested in Edinburgh’s witch trials and folklore, this tour is a natural pick. It’s particularly suited to travelers who enjoy storytelling that’s engaging rather than overly academic. The guides, praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge — especially Angelica, Juniper, and Agatha — make the experience fun and memorable.

The Itinerary, Step by Step

Stop 1: St Giles’ Cathedral

Your journey starts here, with a quick stop at St Giles’ Cathedral. While the church itself isn’t part of the underground vault experience, it’s a key historical site and an eye-catching landmark. Your guide will share snippets about Scotland’s history, touching on figures like Mary Queen of Scots and John Knox. You might be surprised to learn that in this part of Edinburgh, it’s actually acceptable to spit on the ground in Parliament Square — a quirky local custom.

This stop lasts around 10 minutes, giving you just enough time to appreciate its architecture and hear some tales of Scottish history. Note that the admission ticket isn’t included, but the tour doesn’t require going inside.

Stop 2: The Royal Mile

Next, you’ll look down the Royal Mile toward East Lothian. Here, your guide recounts the story of the North Berwick Witches, one of the most infamous witch trials in Scottish history. The Royal Mile is bustling, but the tour moves swiftly through some of its quieter alleys and closes, revealing stories that often go unnoticed by casual visitors.

Stop 3: Lady Stairs House

Hidden away in a lovely courtyard, this stop offers some gruesome history and a chance to connect Scotland’s literary culture to the darker tales. The guide shares stories about witches and magic, and you learn that Scotland’s National Poet is also part of the story. It’s a brief but impactful moment, around 10 minutes, helping you feel the layers of history beneath Edinburgh’s streets.

Stop 4: Castello Di Edimburgo

Here, you’ll discover how Edinburgh was founded and the legends that surround its early days. The guide weaves stories of witches into the city’s formation, helping you see Edinburgh not just as a scenic city but as a place filled with secrets and stories of suspicion and superstition.

Stop 5: Witches Well

This often-missed gem is a small but powerful site. It commemorates those accused of witchcraft, and here you’ll hear about some of their tragic fates. The guide emphasizes empathy and the injustice faced, making this stop a poignant moment.

Stop 6: Upper Bow

From this vantage point, you get a bird’s-eye view of a historic street. Here, the guide shares a shocking tale of a warlock, adding a chilling layer to the city’s dark past. It’s a quick stop, but one that’s well-appreciated for its views and story.

Stop 7: Victoria Street

Famous for its colorful shops and winding cobbles, Victoria Street is also home to stories of an infamous character. The guide narrates her remarkable life, adding some human interest to the street’s lively scene.

Stop 8: The Lost Close and Underground Vaults

The highlight of the tour is an exclusive visit to The Lost Close, an underground vault cloaked in mystery since the Great Fire of 1824. These vaults, dating from 1742, offer a rare glimpse into Edinburgh’s underground world. You’ll spend about 15 minutes here, listening to tales in a vaulted room, and feeling the weight of history around you.

Many reviews mention the vaults as a real highlight, with the history coming alive in a tangible way. The underground experience is included in the ticket price, adding significant value.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Meeting Point: Caffè Nero at Parliament Square, just off the Royal Mile. The tour starts here and ends at the vault in Barrie’s Close, so you’re centrally located for exploring further or heading back easily.

Duration: Around 75-80 minutes, which is a good length — enough to enjoy the stories without feeling rushed or exhausted.

Group Size: Limited to 25 travelers ensures an intimate experience, and most reviews mention smaller groups, which helps keep the storytelling personal.

Physical Fitness: Moderate — expect cobbled streets, some steps, and uneven surfaces. It’s not overly strenuous, but comfortable footwear is a must.

Cost: About $25. Considering the underground vault visit and the quality guides, this is good value in Edinburgh’s tour scene.

Accessibility: Not explicitly detailed, but the cobbles and steps suggest it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues.

Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind when planning.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 from nearly 500 reviews is impressive, and the glowing feedback centers around the guides’ storytelling skills and the quality of the experience. Travelers particularly appreciated guides like Angelica, Juniper, and Agatha, who made the stories engaging, humorous, and heartfelt. Many reviewers mention that they learned new things about Edinburgh’s history, particularly about witch hunts and local legends.

Comments like “highly recommended,” “fun and well-informed,” and “great stories” highlight the tour’s appeal. Several reviewers also mention that it’s a good mix of history and entertainment, making it suitable for those who appreciate stories with a dark, mysterious edge.

One reviewer noted that the underground vault didn’t feel like it was over-promised, but some expected more from that part. Still, the vault’s inclusion adds a special touch and makes the experience more memorable.

The Sum Up

If you’re into history, legends, and stories of Edinburgh’s witches, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to learn about the city’s darker past. The combination of storytelling, stunning views, and underground vault exploration means you get a lot of value for a reasonable price. The guides are clearly passionate, and their ability to weave facts with humor means this isn’t just a history lesson — it’s a lively, immersive experience.

This tour suits those who enjoy a walk with a purpose, storytelling that feels personal, and sites off the beaten path. If you’re prepared for cobbles and some steps, you’ll likely come away with a richer understanding of Edinburgh’s mysterious corners and a handful of stories that will stay with you long after the trip. Perfect for curious travelers wanting something a little different, this experience is a highlight for many visiting Edinburgh.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s focus on dark, sometimes gruesome stories might be intense for young children, especially considering the uneven streets and steps. It’s best for older kids or teens interested in history and legends.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, including the underground vault visit.

Is the underground vault visit included?
Yes, the underground vaults are part of the tour and included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the price?
Approximately $24.71 per person, which is quite reasonable given the content and access included.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves navigating cobbles, steep streets, and steps, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Caffè Nero in Parliament Square and ends at The Vault in Barrie’s Close.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of storytelling, lesser-known sites, and underground vault access offers a different, darker look at Edinburgh’s history not found on regular sightseeing walks.