The bleak history of Blair Street Vaults

Life in the vaults: In the 18th and 19th centuries, poor families and workers lived in cramped, damp vaults. Conditions were dire, with no sunlight, little ventilation, and overwhelming filth.
Crime and vice: The vaults became a haven for criminals, smugglers, and brothels. Lawless activity thrived in the darkness, giving the area a dangerous reputation.
Death and disease: With no sanitation and rampant poverty, disease had spread quite quickly. Many perished underground, their lives cut short in the suffocating environment of these hidden chambers.
Closure and rediscovery: Sealed off by authorities in the 19th century, the vaults remained hidden for generations before being reopened in the 1980s, revealing the layers of Edinburgh’s forgotten past.

The experience of seeing Blair Street Vaults on ghost tours

Atmospheric setting: The vaults’ complete darkness, damp stone walls, and narrow chambers create a haunting backdrop unlike any other site in Edinburgh.
Guided stories: Skilled storytellers share the vaults’ hidden past, weaving real history of poverty and crime with ghost stories told for generations.
Unsettling encounters: Visitors frequently report strange sounds, cold gusts, and fleeting figures, adding to the chilling atmosphere of the underground experience.
Exclusive access: Some tours provide rare entry into vault sections closed to the general public, allowing groups to explore areas steeped in mystery.

Visitor tips

Best timing: Evening visits heighten the experience, with darker conditions amplifying eerie tales and making ghostly encounters feel more immediate.
Shoes and clothing: The underground floors are uneven and damp. Sturdy footwear and warm clothing are essential for comfort.
Light guidance: The vaults are poorly lit. Guides usually provide lanterns, but carrying a small torch can be helpful.
Stay close: Chambers can be confusing, with sudden turns and narrow passages. Remaining near your guide ensures safety and full storytelling.
Age suitability: Many tours recommend ages 12 and above, as the vaults’ atmosphere and stories may unsettle younger visitors.
Weather preparation: Though underground, dampness seeps in. A light waterproof layer helps in colder or rainy months.
Respectful behaviour: The vaults hold tragic history. Quiet and considerate behaviour helps preserve the gravity of the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Blair Street Vaults in Edinburgh

What makes the Blair Street Vaults so infamous?

The vaults were home to poverty, vice, and criminal activity in the 18th and 19th centuries, later gaining a reputation for intense paranormal activity.

Are the vaults completely underground?

Yes, they are beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge, consisting of interconnected stone chambers sealed off for over a century before rediscovery.

Can visitors take photographs inside the vaults?

Photography is sometimes restricted due to lighting and atmosphere. Guides advise when photos are permitted so the storytelling is not disrupted.

Is the Blair Street Vaults suitable for children?

Tours generally recommend visitors be 12 years or older, as the vaults’ stories and environment can be distressing for younger audiences.

Is the Blair Street Vaults tour accessible for those with mobility concerns?

Access is limited due to uneven floors, narrow passages, and damp steps. Wheelchair accessibility is not available in most sections.

How long does a vault tour usually last?

Most guided visits last around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing time for historical background, ghost stories, and exploring different vault chambers.

What should I wear when visiting the vaults?

Warm, comfortable layers with sturdy footwear are best, as the underground environment is cold, damp, and uneven year-round.

Do ghost tours always include the Blair Street Vaults?

Not all ghost tours visit the vaults, but many of Edinburgh’s most popular tours specifically feature them due to their haunted reputation.

Can visitors feel paranormal activity inside?

Many report sudden chills, strange sounds, or feelings of being watched. While experiences vary, the vaults remain one of Edinburgh’s most active haunted sites.