Ghosts of Edinburgh: Bloody Past Exploration Game and Tour

Exploring the Ghosts of Edinburgh: A Deep Dive into the Bloody Past Tour

If you’re considering a different way to experience Edinburgh beyond traditional walking tours, the Ghosts of Edinburgh: Bloody Past Exploration Game and Tour might catch your eye. Designed as an independent, self-guided adventure, it invites you to uncover the city’s spooky legends and dark history at your own pace.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its unprecedented flexibility — you can start whenever suits you and take breaks whenever needed. Plus, for just under $7, it offers a fun and immersive alternative to guided walks, especially if you’re into puzzles and storytelling. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a guided tour with a live guide, so you’ll be relying on the app and your own curiosity.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of mystery, are comfortable with self-guided experiences, and want to explore Edinburgh’s haunted spots without the pressure of a scheduled group. If you love uncovering legends on your own time, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Self-guided flexibility allows you to start at any time and pause as needed.
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget travelers.
• Engaging puzzles and clues lead you through top Edinburgh sights and stories.
• No need for internet connection once downloaded, simplifying logistics.
• Good for groups and families with options for multiple bookings for larger parties.
• Authentic local stories about Greyfriars Kirkyard, Burke and Hare murders, and more.

What’s the Experience Really Like?

We love that this tour doesn’t follow a traditional format. Instead of sticking with a set schedule, you get the freedom to explore Edinburgh’s haunted landmarks when it suits you. This is especially handy if you’re someone who prefers wandering at your own pace or if Edinburgh weather isn’t cooperating on a particular day.

The tour kicks off at The Mound, a notable central spot connecting Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. From there, you’ll follow clues to spots like Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, Mary King’s Close, and Greyfriars Bobby Fountain. Each stop comes with a challenge — usually, a puzzle or a question that prompts you to look around and learn more about the place.

For example, at The Mound, you might need to identify certain features or historical facts to advance. At Edinburgh Castle, the focus is on understanding its building history and significance, but you won’t have to pay entrance fees, which is a plus. The clues are designed to challenge your observational skills and curiosity, making the tour more interactive than just reading plaques or listening to a guide.

The Stops in Detail

The Mound

This artificial slope is a significant Edinburgh landmark, created by dumping earth excavated from the New Town. The clues here invite you to look around and piece together the story of how this land was formed. It’s a clever way to start the tour because it’s right in the heart of the city, offering a quick overview of Edinburgh’s development.

Edinburgh Castle

Dominating the city’s skyline, Edinburgh Castle is steeped in history. The app encourages you to explore the grounds and answer challenges that reveal tales of ancient battles and royal intrigue. While the castle itself isn’t free, you won’t need to go inside — just use the clues to learn about its past.

St Giles’ Cathedral

Dating back to about 1130, St Giles’ has a deep connection to Edinburgh’s spiritual and social history. The clues here focus on the church’s origins and its patron saint, giving you a sense of the city’s medieval past without stepping inside.

Mary King’s Close

This underground alleyway offers a spooky glimpse into Edinburgh’s hidden past. The guide’s clues turn this mysterious, narrow street into a game, prompting you to discover stories of inhabitants from centuries ago. It’s one of the more atmospheric stops and highlights Edinburgh’s layered history beneath the modern streets.

Greyfriars Bobby Fountain

This statue of the famous dog is a gentle reminder of loyalty and kindness amid darker tales. The clues here lead you to learn about the dog’s story, and also about the ghostly legends associated with Greyfriars Kirkyard.

The Grassmarket

Once a lively cattle market, this area was also known for public executions. The clues at this site explore Edinburgh’s grim past, sharing stories of justice and punishment that will likely send a shiver or two.

Educational & Artistic Spots

The tour takes you past New College, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and Old College, giving you a well-rounded sense of Edinburgh’s academic and artistic history intertwined with ghostly legends.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture, with a few caveats. On the bright side, many users love the interesting stories and puzzles that make exploring Edinburgh different from a typical sightseeing walk. One reviewer said, “So much fun at night… well-designed map and puzzles,” emphasizing how engaging the experience can be, especially after dark.

Others appreciate the value for money — at just $6.88, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a unique city experience. Multiple reviews mention how it allows you to discover hidden gems and lesser-known stories that you might miss on traditional tours.

However, some reviewers had issues. For example, one noted that “you have to get to an appropriate point before unlocking the next part,” which can be frustrating if you’re not familiar with the city’s layout or if you encounter technical hiccups. A negative review mentioned problems with app loading times and difficulty accessing certain points, which highlights the importance of having patience and a reliable device.

The knowledge of the guide and good value seem to be the highlights, making it especially appealing if you enjoy self-guided adventures.

The Practical Side

This experience is completely offline once downloaded, which is a huge plus for travelers who don’t want to worry about data charges or Wi-Fi. The flexibility to start whenever you want is perfect for those with unpredictable schedules or who prefer to explore on their own terms.

Group discounts are available, and if your group exceeds 15 people, just book multiple slots. The tour’s duration of about an hour makes it manageable even on a busy day, but keep in mind that you’ll want some comfortable walking shoes and a good phone battery.

The meeting point at The Mound is central and accessible via public transportation, so getting started is straightforward. Ending at West Bow, near the historic Grassmarket, means you’re close to many restaurants and pubs to wind down after your spooky adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for history buffs, mystery lovers, and those curious about Edinburgh’s darker past. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore the city without the need for a guided group or paid entrance fees.

If you’re traveling with teenagers or groups of friends who enjoy puzzles and storytelling, you’ll probably get a lot out of this. But if you prefer guided commentary or want to learn detailed historical facts from a person, this might not satisfy your needs.

Travelers who like the idea of exploring independently, at their own pace, and with a sense of adventure will find this a worthwhile addition to their Edinburgh itinerary. Just be aware of the app’s technical requirements and potential frustrations with certain clues or points.

The Sum Up

All in all, Ghosts of Edinburgh: Bloody Past Exploration Game and Tour offers a lively, flexible, and budget-friendly way to discover Edinburgh’s haunted corners and dark stories. It’s perfect for those who want a sense of adventure without the constraints of scheduled tours or hefty prices.

While it isn’t a substitute for a guided walk with a historian, it’s a solid choice if you enjoy puzzles, storytelling, and exploring at your own pace. Plus, the fact that it can be played offline makes it convenient for travelers on the go.

If you’re comfortable with self-guided exploration and interested in uncovering Edinburgh’s spooky side, this experience is worth a try. For a more interactive, story-driven adventure that fits into a busy schedule, it’s a clever and fun option.

FAQ

Do I need an internet connection to play this tour?
No, once you download the game, it works offline, making it easy to explore without worrying about data or Wi-Fi.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour offers full flexibility — you can begin whenever you like and pause for breaks whenever needed.

Is this suitable for large groups?
Yes, if your group exceeds 15 people, just book multiple slots to accommodate everyone.

How long does the tour take?
The experience lasts around an hour, but you can take longer if you wish to explore more or take breaks.

Are there guided commentary or live guides?
No, it’s an independent experience, relying on the game and your own curiosity.

What sights are included?
Stops include The Mound, Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, Mary King’s Close, Greyfriars Bobby Fountain, The Grassmarket, New College, and art galleries.

Is the price good value?
For just under $7, you’re getting a self-guided, interactive experience that covers many major sites and stories. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore Edinburgh differently.

Will I encounter paid attractions?
No, the route is designed so you can learn about the sights without paying for entry, unless you choose to visit inside on your own.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a children’s activity, the puzzles and stories can suit families with older children who enjoy mystery and history.

If you’re into spooky stories, interactive exploration, and flexible schedules, this haunted Edinburgh experience could be just what you need for a memorable city adventure.