Small Group Ghost Tour incl. Underground Vaults & free drink in Megget’s Cellar

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and craving a spooky, atmospheric adventure, this small-group ghost tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s darker past. While it’s not a horror show, it’s a well-crafted experience that combines storytelling, history, and a touch of the supernatural—all set in some of Edinburgh’s most eerie locations.

What really draws us in is the intimate group size, which keeps the experience personal and immersive, plus the chance to explore the haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults—a highlight for any ghost enthusiast. The added bonus of sharing a dram of Scotch whisky at Megget’s Cellar helps settle your nerves after the spooky stories. However, the tour lasts about 2 hours, so if you’re not into walking around in the dark or listening to ghost tales, this might not be your thing.

This tour is perfect for those who love history with a side of ghostly legends, enjoy a good storyteller, and appreciate a more personal experience rather than large, crowded tours. It’s especially suited for adults or older teens, given the dark themes and atmospheric storytelling.

Key Points

• Limited Group Size: With only 18 people max, it feels more personal and engaging.
• Eerie Locations: The Blair Street Underground Vaults are a core part of the experience—don’t expect a sanitized version of Edinburgh’s haunted past.
• Great Value: For around $43, you get a two-hour tour with plenty of stories, plus a free dram of Scotch whisky or alternative drinks.
• Highly Rated Guides: Guests consistently praise the guides for their storytelling skills and humor.
• Atmospheric Settings: The tour’s walk through the dimly lit closes and vaults creates a true sense of stepping back in time.
• Accessible & Well-Organized: The tour starts at Mercat Cross and ends in Megget’s Cellar, with the meeting point conveniently located in the heart of Old Town.

What to Expect on This Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Meeting Point & Starting Out

The tour kicks off on High Street, right at the historic Mercat Cross, a spot steeped in history and stories of crowds and riots. From here, your guide begins setting the mood, sharing tales of Edinburgh’s past—riots, witch hunts, and dark deeds that helped shape the city’s reputation for ghost stories.

Expect an energetic introduction that gets everyone ready for a spooky evening in the city’s atmospheric streets. As you walk through the dimly lit closes and wynds, you’ll hear about the murky past of Edinburgh’s Old Town, with plenty of grisly tales that bring the streets to life (or death).

Exploring the Old Town’s Dark Side

The tour then takes you to the haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults—a place that’s both historic and chilling. Descending into these vaults, you’ll get a sense of what it might have been like for medieval criminals, workers, and those who supposedly still haunt the underground corridors.

Guests often describe the vaults as atmospheric and a little spooky, especially as the darkness and history combine. The stories of ghosts like Jack, Mr. Boots, and The Watcher are woven into the narrative, adding a personal touch to the haunted reputation. Multiple reviews mention how the guides keep everyone engaged with their storytelling, making the vaults feel alive with history and ghostly whispers.

The Stories & Atmosphere

Your storyteller guides you through tales of murder, torture, and supernatural encounters—some so vivid you might wonder if ghosts are really lurking nearby. Guests have shared that the storytelling is both dramatic and humorous, making the experience fun rather than just frightening.

Reviewers rave about guides like Michael and Marie, praising their ability to blend humor, history, and theatrical flair. One review notes that their storytelling kept the group engaged from start to finish, and many comment that the headsets used ensure everyone catches every story without straining to hear.

The Whiskey & Final Atmosphere

The tour concludes in the cozy, candlelit Megget’s Cellar, where everyone is treated to a free dram of Scotch whisky. For those who prefer, there’s also locally-made beer or soft drinks. This part of the experience offers a chance to relax, chat about what you’ve seen, and soak in the creepy vibe of Edinburgh’s haunted past.

Guests mention that the whisky adds a nice touch of warmth after the chilling tales, and many appreciate the relaxed atmosphere at the end of the tour. It’s a good way to wind down, especially after wandering through underground vaults and dark streets.

The Full Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Mercat Cross

Your journey begins at the Mercat Cross, a site historically buzzing with crowds during riots and executions. Here, your guide paints a vivid picture of street mobs and justice in medieval Edinburgh. You’ll hear about the chaos and the dark side of city life, setting the scene for the rest of the ghostly adventure. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and includes the admission ticket.

Stop 2: Edinburgh Old Town and Winding Streets

Next, you’ll walk through the medieval closes and wynds of Old Town, hearing tales of witchcraft and torture that once marred these narrow alleys. As you descend into the Blair Street Underground Vaults, the atmosphere thickens. Guests have reported hearing distant clatters and whispers, which only adds to the sense of stepping back in time.

The vaults are the heart of the tour, and many reviews mention how impressive and spooky they are. The guides’ storytelling, paired with the eerie surroundings, makes for a memorable experience.

Stop 3: The Vaults & Ghost Stories

Led by a talented storyteller, you’ll explore the dimly lit caverns, hearing stories of ghosts like Jack and The Watcher, based on local legends and reports. Guests often find these stories to be both compelling and a little unsettling, especially with the atmospheric storytelling style that guides like Marie or Michael excel at.

Final Stop: Megget’s Cellar

After the vaults, everyone gathers in Megget’s Cellar, beautifully lit by candles. Here, you’re served a free dram of Scotch whisky or your preferred drink. The guide hits the perfect balance of sharing more tales of Edinburgh’s haunted history, making the moment feel intimate and relaxed.

The Experience & Group Size

The small group size (up to 18 people) is a key feature—allowing for a more personalized experience. Guests often highlight how the guides’ humor and theatrical skills elevate the stories, making everyone feel involved. Many reviews mention how the guides kept the atmosphere lively, engaging, and sometimes genuinely creepy—without overdoing it.

The tour lasts around 2 hours, which is a good length to keep things interesting without feeling rushed. The walking is comfortable, but be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes, as the tour is outdoors and involves some descending into vaults.

Price & Value

At $42.99 per person, this tour offers a rich experience for history lovers and ghost enthusiasts alike. It includes all the storytelling, underground exploration, and a complimentary drink—a package that many reviewers agree is worth the price. The reviews emphasize how entertaining and informative the guides are, which adds a lot to the value.

Guests also appreciate the use of headsets, ensuring clear narration even in the echoing vaults. Considering the length and depth of the experience, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to make the most of Edinburgh’s spooky reputation without breaking the bank.

Accessibility & Practical Info

The tour is guaranteed year-round, so you can plan regardless of the weather—just remember to dress for the elements. It starts at the Mercat Cross and ends in Megget’s Cellar, conveniently located downtown. Children aged 5 and above are welcome, making it suitable for families with teens or older kids, especially those interested in history and ghost stories.

The maximum group size is 18, which makes for a more intimate and engaging experience. The tour is also accessible for service animals and is near public transportation, making logistics straightforward.

The Sum Up

If you’re someone who loves stories, history, or the thrill of ghostly legends, this small group ghost tour hits the right notes. The guides’ storytelling skills, combined with the atmospheric underground vaults and the relaxed ending with a dram, make it a well-rounded experience. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy a personal touch and don’t mind a walk through some spooky locations after dark.

The price reflects the quality of the storytelling and the exclusive access to Edinburgh’s haunted underground. It’s a fun, atmospheric way to spend an evening in the city, especially if you’re eager for a mix of history and folklore seasoned with a little ghostly flair.

For those who want a spooky night with a good story and a drink in hand, this tour is a solid bet. Just brace yourself for some ghostly whispers and the occasional chill—it’s part of the charm.

FAQ

• Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate, but note that the stories can be spooky, so consider whether your kids are comfortable with ghost tales and dark atmospheres.
• How long does the tour last? It takes about 2 hours, including walking and storytelling.
• Do I need to book in advance? Yes, most travelers book about 38 days before, and booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially in peak seasons.
• What is included in the price? The tour, storytelling, underground vault access, and a free dram of Scotch whisky or alternative drinks.
• Is the tour accessible for all? The tour is near public transportation and allows service animals, but walking and descent into vaults are involved.
• What should I wear? Dress for the weather; comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves outdoor walking and underground visits.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• What makes this tour different from others? Its small group size, engaging guides, and focus on underground vaults and local legends.
• Will I get to see the underground vaults? Yes, the vaults are a core part of the experience and are open for exploration during the tour.
• What if I don’t drink alcohol? You can opt for a soft drink or local beer instead of whisky at Megget’s Cellar.

If you’re after an intimate, story-rich way to explore Edinburgh’s haunted past, this tour delivers plenty of atmosphere, engaging guides, and a dash of whisky to end the night. It’s a fun way to see the darker side of the city without the gimmicks, perfect for history buffs and ghost hunters alike.