Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and have an interest in its spookier stories and darker past, the Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour might just be right up your alley. This two-hour guided walk takes you through some of the most atmospheric parts of the city, revealing stories of notorious characters, ghostly legends, and gruesome historic events. It’s a popular choice, with a solid reputation reflected in a 4.8-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, and it’s clear many find it both entertaining and informative.

What we love most about this experience is how expertly the guides weave storytelling with history, making it feel less like a mere walk and more like stepping into a living horror story. Plus, the tour covers iconic locations like the Canongate Kirkyard, which is packed with mausoleums and old graves that really set the scene. One drawback, however, is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking—something to consider if mobility is a concern. Overall, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, chills, and a bit of theatrical storytelling, especially if you like your tales with a bit of a spooky edge.

• Engaging storytelling by knowledgeable guides makes history vivid and creepy.
• Stunning historic sites like Canongate Kirkyard are central to the experience.
• Affordable price point offers great value for a 2-hour tour packed with stories.
• Focus on Edinburgh’s dark past including murders, witches, and infamous characters.
• Ideal for fans of ghost stories and history buffs—not necessarily family-friendly.
• Tour length and pace are manageable, though expect a fair amount of walking.

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This guided walk through Edinburgh’s historic center is designed to uncover the city’s darker stories—the ones often left out of standard sightseeing. With a price tag of just $27 per person, you’re getting a lot of value for a two-hour experience that’s both fun and a little spine-tingling. The tour starts on the Royal Mile, a perfect hub to dive into tales of old Edinburgh, and winds through some of the city’s most atmospheric corners, ending at the historic Whitefoord House mansion.

The tour’s highlights include stories of notorious figures like Burke and Hare, infamous for their grisly body snatching and murders. You’ll also hear about witch trials and burnings, which once cast long shadows over the city. Visiting sites like the Canongate Kirkyard, with its ancient mausoleums, adds a tangible sense of history—an excellent backdrop for the ghost stories that are woven into the narrative.

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Meeting Point and Orientation

The tour kicks off right on the Royal Mile, on the corner with Stevenlaw’s Close. Your guide, easily identifiable by a red name badge, will greet you there—so look out for that. It’s a straightforward start, and the group is usually manageable in size, which keeps things intimate and allows for questions. The tour ends at 153 Canongate, giving you a chance to explore some more afterward if you wish.

What to Expect

Expect to walk through Edinburgh’s dark alleys, graveyards, and historic districts while your guide shares spine-chilling stories. The guides are highly praised for their storytelling skills—many reviews mention how entertaining and well-informed they are. Quotes from past participants such as “G was a delightful and super entertaining host” or “Alasdair was such a lovely guide and made the walk so interesting” highlight just how engaging the guides can be.

The tour includes stops at Canongate Kirkyard, where you can see the famous mausoleums and hear tales of body-snatching, vampires, and cannibals. The stories are a mix of folklore and real historical events, such as the murder of Mary Queen of Scots’ lover. The narratives bring the city’s shadowy past vividly to life, often making the history feel immediate and personal.

The Itinerary: Each Stop’s Charm and Creepiness

Starting on the Royal Mile, your guide will paint a picture of medieval Edinburgh, setting the mood for what’s ahead. The initial guided walk around this historic thoroughfare is about 20 minutes, during which you’ll hear about plundered tombs, funeral pyres, and mass graves. This segment gives you context for the eerie stories that follow.

Next is Canongate Kirkyard, a cemetery that’s nearly as old as the city itself. Many reviewers mention how atmospheric and haunting this spot is, especially when hearing about the mausoleums and the stories of those buried there. Past reviews praise guides like Niamh for their ability to combine humor and historical detail, making even the darkest tales engaging.

The walk continues through Edinburgh Old Town for about 30 minutes, where the group explores narrow alleyways and hidden corners. The tales here include stories of witch burnings and grave robbing, which are both horrifying and fascinating. Many reviewers have mentioned how the stories are well told, and how the guide’s humor balances the spooky subject matter.

Moving into the Canongate District, the tour ventures into even darker corners, with the guide recounting stories of murderers and supernatural legends. The final part of the tour involves a walk up Arthur’s Seat—not to climb, but to enjoy the panoramic views. Here, the guide might share some additional legends or stories, making the experience feel complete.

The tour wraps up at 153 Canongate, giving you a chance to continue exploring or grab a drink and reflect on the stories you’ve heard.

Why the Tour Works

The high praise from reviewers about guides like Alasdair, G, and Niamh says a lot. Their storytelling isn’t just about facts; it’s about making history immersive and a little scary. Many reviews mention how the stories are interesting, horrifying, but also humorous, which keeps the experience from feeling overly dark or heavy.

The value for money is evident in the consistent praise for how much storytelling and site-visiting you get for just over twenty dollars. With detailed stories, atmospheric stops, and the chance to learn about Edinburgh’s lesser-known history, it’s a well-rounded experience.

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The Balance of Fun and Fear

This tour isn’t just a ghost story session. It’s a thoughtful exploration of Edinburgh’s dark past, with a focus on real events like witch trials, notorious murders, and grave robbing. That said, it’s not overly graphic or terrifying—it’s more atmospheric and appropriate for those who enjoy a good story with some creepy elements.

A common theme in reviews is how guides make the stories come alive. One reviewer mentions that Alasdair is highly entertaining and knows many interesting stories, making the walk engaging for a wide age range, from children to adults.

Practical Tips

• Walking shoes are recommended since there’s a fair amount of walking through historic streets and cemeteries.
• The tour is about 2 hours long, so dress appropriately for the weather, especially since parts of the walk are outside.
• It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• The meeting point is straightforward, but arriving a few minutes early ensures you don’t miss the start.
• The tour ends back at the starting point, so it’s easy to plan for dinner or drinks afterward.

If you love history, ghost stories, or just want a different lens on Edinburgh, this tour is a winner. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy storytelling that mixes fact with a dash of fright—though it’s friendly enough for most ages, so long as you’re comfortable with some spooky themes.

It’s less suited for anyone looking for a family-friendly, tame experience or those with mobility issues. But if you’re intrigued by Edinburgh’s darker legends and want to explore them with an engaging guide, this tour offers both value and entertainment.

The Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour offers a compelling way to see the city through a different lens. Its blend of storytelling, atmospheric sites, and dark tales makes it a memorable experience—especially if you’re into history with a spooky twist. The guides’ passion and knowledge shine through, making each story engaging and sometimes chilling.

At just $27, it’s a budget-friendly option that delivers a lot of value. The tour’s pacing and content are suited for those who enjoy a mix of history and ghost stories, with enough spooky legends and historic facts to satisfy most curious minds.

Ultimately, this tour is best for travelers who appreciate a good story, are comfortable with a bit of walking, and want a memorable, atmospheric addition to their Edinburgh visit. If that sounds like you, it’s well worth considering for your trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, many reviews don’t mention issues with children. However, since it involves spooky stories and some dark themes, it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers who can handle creepy tales.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, which is manageable for most people. There’s a fair amount of walking involved, so plan accordingly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the corner of the Royal Mile with Stevenlaw’s Close and ends back at 153 Canongate, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the walking route.

What language is the tour in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if needed.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned, but the dark themes might be better suited for teens and adults.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be traversing historic streets and graveyards.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Since much of the tour is outdoors, it’s best to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

How many people typically join the tour?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest guides keep groups manageable for a personal experience.

If you’re curious about Edinburgh’s shadowy past and enjoy a good story, this tour could be a highlight of your trip—just pack your curiosity and maybe a light jacket.

You can check availability for your dates here: