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From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Tiffany Graham

Tiffany

Sep 2025
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+2 more

Our tour guide, Linda was amazing! She involved the group in ways that made even this very antisocial person comfortable and included without feeling overwhelmed. Linda's knowledge and presentation of the history we walked in were outstanding and kept us all waiting for the next story! If we ever make it back, we will be using Mercat Tours again!
EMMA-JANE WOOD
AU

Emma-jane

Australia
Jan 2026
Well organised and incredibly interesting. Our guide Jude was an incredible story teller. She was funny, interactive and incredibly knowledgeable! I went to the tour alone and felt completely safe and looked after :)
Sharon Arnold
NZ

Sharon

New Zealand
Jan 2026
Lots of stories, our tour guide Veni was an awesome storyteller! The underground vaults and their history are so interesting. Finished with a drink in a little cellar. Highly recommend!
Abigail Morrison

Abigail

Oct 2025
Our guide was David RIzzio - foul-mouthed, irreverent, camp and a very fast walker. Amongst grisly ghost stories and macarbre murder tales, he also found time to heap abuse on Americans, the English, J.K. Rowling, people who walk slowly, people who don't know how to turn their phones into flashlights, other ghost tour operators, his colleagues, his ex, people in general... A hugely entertaining evening.
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Back to Edinburgh’s haunted past with ghost tours

Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. But beneath its cobblestone streets and medieval buildings lies a darker world filled with legends, tragic tales, and restless spirits. Edinburgh ghost tours guide you through shadowy alleyways, underground vaults, and haunted closes, revealing chilling stories of plague victims, murderers, witches, and lost souls. Read on to discover more!

Why go on Edinburgh ghost tours

Princes Street Gardens with view of Edinburgh Castle, part of Glenfinnan, Glencoe, and Fort William tour.
Victorian-era actor in makeup and costume in a dimly lit underground setting for paranormal tour.
Tour guide leading a group through Blair Street Underground Vaults.
Pouring whiskey into a glass at Megget's Cellar tasting event.
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What to expect when you visit

Edinburgh ghost tours take you through some of the city’s most haunted locations. Expect entry to historic sites such as Greyfriars Kirkyard, South Bridge Vaults, and Real Mary King’s Close, otherwise not open to solo visitors.

Why it’s a fun experience

Beyond the chills, the tours are packed with history and intrigue. Explore shadowy streets and vaults that once housed plague victims and figures like David Rizzio, Mary Queen of Scots’ advisor, and stay alert for paranormal activity.

Storytelling

What makes Edinburgh ghost tours truly special is the immersive storytelling. Expert guides bring the city’s supernatural past to life by dressing in period costume, adding drama as they lead visitors through streets, underground alleys, and haunted closes.

Drinks

Certain tours offer optional whisky tastings, allowing visitors to enjoy Scotland’s finest spirits while hearing ghost stories. This adds a uniquely local twist to the chilling tales, making the experience both memorable and distinctly Scottish.

Things to know before booking Edinburgh ghost tours 

  • Advance booking: Edinburgh ghost tours are among the city’s most popular experiences. Because these tours often sell out, especially in the evenings and on weekends, it is strongly recommended to book tickets online in advance. 
  • Ticket type: Tickets for Edinburgh ghost tours vary depending on the experience you’re looking for. The Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour takes you through Blair Street Vaults and Greyfriars Kirkyard, while the Secrets of the Royal Mile or Ghostly Tales of the Royal Mile, gets you to explore more on foot, along with rich tales to accompany you on the side.
  • Immersive experiences: For a more theatrical experience, the Edinburgh Dungeon combines live actors, immersive sets, and interactive rides to bring to life tales of witches, plague victims and serial killers.
  • Additional inclusions: Whisky enthusiasts can enjoy the Underground Whisky Tour and Tasting, a 2-hour walking tour led by a guide and whisky specialist, sampling premium Scottish whiskies while learning about production techniques and history.
  • Guide: Most tours include an English-speaking guide, site entry, and storytelling delivered through live narration or audio devices. Tours last 1–2 hours and cover Edinburgh’s Old Town, underground vaults, and haunted streets. 
  • Age restrictions: Most tours have an age limit where young children might not be allowed. Certain night tours and whisky experiences require guests to be 18 and above. 
  • Wheelchair accessibility: Some areas are not wheelchair accessible, and tours may not be suitable for guests with photosensitivity, epilepsy, heart conditions, or claustrophobia. 

Which Edinburgh ghost tour is best for you

Ticket typeDescriptionRecommended ticket

Underground Vaults’ Tours

These tours take you beneath the city to explore the eerie Blair Street Underground Vaults, focusing on the darker aspects of Edinburgh's history.

Ghostly Night Walking Tour

Royal Mile Tours

These tours focus on the historic Royal Mile, exploring its closes and wynds while recounting stories of witchcraft, torture and restless spirits.

Secrets of the Royal Mile Tour

Whisky Tours

These tours include a visit to the Blair Street Underground Vaults, concluding with a complimentary drink in Megget's Cellar.

Underground Whisky Tour

What to see on Edinburgh ghost tours

Greyfriars Kirkyard & Mackenzie Tomb

Why is it famous: Greyfriars Kirkyard, established in 1562, is one of Edinburgh's oldest graveyards. It contains the graves of historical figures, including the famous Skye Terrier Greyfriars Bobby.

Spook appeal: It is renowned for the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist, believed to haunt the Black Mausoleum. Visitors often report unexplained scratches, cold spots, and eerie sensations near Sir George Mackenzie's tomb.

Real Mary King's Close

Why is it famous: Beneath the Royal Mile, Mary King's Close, sealed off in 1753, offers a glimpse into 17th-century Edinburgh. Here, you can explore preserved rooms and narrow alleys, experiencing the conditions of Edinburgh's past inhabitants.

Spook appeal: The site is also known for ghostly sightings, including a little girl named Annie, believed to have died during the plague.

South Bridge Vaults

Why is it famous: Constructed in 1788, the South Bridge Vaults were originally used for taverns and workshops. Over time, they became home to the city's impoverished and were associated with criminal activities.

Spook appeal: These damp, dimly lit chambers with a criminal past are a focal point for ghost tours, with many reporting paranormal experiences.

Haunted Old Town Closes

Why is it famous: Narrow alleyways like Fleshmarket Close and Advocate's Close are steeped in history and legend. These closes, some dating back to the 16th century, were once bustling with activity.

Spook appeal: The ambience of the place along with the dingy, shut-off-to-the-world atmosphere, has resulted in many visitors reporting sightings of apparitions.

Blair Street Underground Vaults

Why is it famous: The Blair Street Vaults are among the most haunted locations in Edinburgh. The vaults were originally used for storage and workshops, but became overcrowded with the city's poor.

Spook appeal: The harsh conditions and overcrowding led to disease and death, and it's believed that the spirits of former residents still haunt the vaults.

Canongate Graveyard

Why is it famous: Located near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate Graveyard is the final resting place of notable figures like economist Adam Smith and David Rizzio, the private secretary of Queen Mary of Scots.

Spook appeal: The graveyard dates back to the late 17th century and was used for burials until the mid-20th century!

 Edinburgh Castle

Why is it famous: Dominating the city's skyline, Edinburgh Castle is not only a historic fortress but also a site of numerous ghost stories. The castle has a long and turbulent history, serving as a royal residence, military stronghold, and symbol of Scottish heritage.

Spook appeal: The castle is filled with tales of the Headless Drummer Boy, the Lone Piper, and phantom dogs near the pet cemetery that further add to its mystique.

 Megget’s Cellar

Why is it famous: Situated within the South Bridge Vaults, Megget’s Cellar is most often the last point of Edinburgh ghost tours and offers a unique experience combining ghost stories with whisky tasting.

Spook appeal: In an eerie, quiet, candlelit setting, guides share tales of some of Edinburgh’s scariest incidents while guests sample fine Scottish whiskies.

Plan your visit to Edinburgh ghost tours

edinburgh ghost tours

Timings for Edinburgh ghost tours vary depending on the tour, but most are available only after 12 pm. Some tours run at specific times:

  • Hidden and Haunted Tour: 8 pm
  • Ghostly Tales of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile Tour: 6 pm
  • Underground Whisky Tour and Tasting: 4 pm
  • Evening of Ghosts and Ghouls Tour: 7 pm

Edinburgh ghost tours operate year-round, except from December 24 to 26. Be sure to check the starting time of your chosen tour before booking your tickets.

Couple walking through dimly lit cobblestone alley on Extreme Paranormal Activity Tour.

Evening vs. Day

  • Evening tours: These are the most atmospheric, with darkness and Edinburgh's historic streets enhancing the eerie ambiance
  • Day tours: While available, they lack the same spooky atmosphere, especially during the longer daylight hours of summer.

Weekend vs. Weekday

  • Weekends: Generally more crowded, especially during peak seasons, leading to larger groups and a less intimate experience.
  • Weekdays: Offer a quieter, more personal tour with smaller groups, allowing for better interaction and clearer storytelling.

Peak vs. Off-season

  • Peak Season (June–August): Features pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, but also brings larger crowds and higher prices. 
  • Off-Season (October–February): Colder, darker, and often misty or rainy conditions create a uniquely eerie atmosphere. Fewer tourists mean more personal tour experiences and better prices. 

Best month to visit: December is particularly special for ghost tours, with traditional holiday ghost stories adding a unique twist.

Address: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, United Kingdom | Find on Maps

  • By train: ScotRail
    Nearest stop: Edinburgh Waverley (0.32 km)
  • By bus: 100 (Airlink), Edinburgh Airport Express, 3, 5, 7, 8, 14, 30, 31, 33, 35, 37, 45, 47, 49, Perrymans 51/52, First Bus X95, 23, 27, 41, 42
    Nearest stop: Edinburgh Waverly Bridge Stop WA, North Bridge, or George IV Bridge
  • By tram: Edinburgh trams
    Nearest stop: St Andrew’s Square
  • By cycle: Edinburgh Cycle Streets
    Nearest rack: West Parliament Square
  • By car: Via North Bridge and High St
    Nearest parking: Blair Street, Cowgate, Blackfriars Street, and Chambers Street
edinburgh ghost tours
  • Toilets: The nearest public toilets can be found at the top of Blair Street at Hunter Square, Edinburgh Waverley Station or at any of the cafes on Royal Mile.
  • Audio devices: You will be provided with a personal audio device so you can hear your guide clearly without any interruptions.
  • Guidebooks: Souvenir guidebooks about the Blair Street Underground Vaults are available at the end of your tour.
  • Lighting: Flashlights, torches, or ambient lighting in vaults and closes to enhance safety and atmosphere.
edinburgh ghost tours
  • Wheelchair accessibility: Only the Secrets of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and Ghostly Tales of Edinburgh's Royal Mile are accessible for wheelchair users as they are predominantly outdoors.
  • Sensory bags: Sensory bags designed to enhance focus and promote relaxation for individuals with sensory processing differences, such as those with autism or ADHD, and anyone else who may find them helpful are available.
  • Guide dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome on all of Edinburgh ghost tours.
  • Carer tickets: Complimentary tickets for carers when booking a full price child/concession/adult ticket are available.
  • Walking aid: Walking aids and stick stools can be requested in advance and returned at the end of the tour.
  • Transcripts: A short, edited written transcript of all ghost tours is available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and Mandarin.
  • Toilets: The nearest public toilets can be found at the top of Blair Street at Hunter Square, Edinburgh Waverley Station or at any of the cafes on Royal Mile.
No-flash photography sign at SEA Life London.
  • Animals: Registered guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs, and medical detection dogs are allowed on the tours with adequate proof of registration on arrival. 
  • Photography: Photography is encouraged on all the tours. However, the use of flash photography and tripods in the vaults are not allowed. 
  • Drinking: Anyone found over the drinking limit will be refused entry to the ghost tours.
  • Respect the environment: Do not touch walls, furniture, artifacts, or historic structures within the vaults or closes, as many are fragile and protected.
  • Stay on the designated paths: For safety reasons, guests must remain with the group and follow the marked tour route at all times.
  • Punctuality: Tours start promptly at their scheduled time. Latecomers may not be admitted once the group has departed.
  • No disruptive behaviour: Running, shouting, or deliberately trying to disturb or frighten other guests is not allowed.
  • Phone use: Mobile phones should be kept on silent mode during the tour to maintain the atmosphere. Limited use for photos is permitted where allowed.

Visitor tips to follow on Edinburgh Ghost tours

  • Choose the right tour for you: Decide based on your preference for historical storytelling or scares. If you are interested in exploring dark underground vaults with jump scares and stories focusing on the darker aspects of Edinburgh’s past, then the Ghostly Underground Walking Tour is a good choice. If you prefer walking along the Royal Mile and exploring the castle, then the Secrets of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile Walking Tour or Ghostly Tales of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile Walking Tour may suit you better.
  • Book in advance: Ghost tours are extremely popular, especially during summer and festival seasons. To avoid disappointment, reserve your spot before arriving in Edinburgh.
  • Consider timing carefully: Evening tours capture the perfect eerie atmosphere, while late-night tours after 9pm turn up the scares with darker settings, bolder storytelling, and smaller, braver groups.
  • Soak up the atmosphere afterwards: Extend the spooky mood with a pint in one of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town pubs, many of which have ghost stories of their own.

Frequently asked questions about Edinburgh ghost tours

Most ghost tours last between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the company and route. Some extended tours that include multiple sites can last up to 2 hours.