Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour
Duration
1 hour
Free cancellation
up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience's start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience's start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience's start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it's canceled because the minimum isn't met, you'll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Last Minute Availability
Live Tour Guide
English
Highlights
- Take a guided tour of the dimly lit vaults beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
- Explore the historic South Bridge vaults, built in the 1700s.
- Learn about the harsh living conditions and diseases of past inhabitants.
- Hear stories about murders, witches, and paranormal legends associated with the vaults.
- Option to visit the torture exhibition (if selection includes it).
Included
- Tour of the South Bridge underground vaults
- Guide
- Entry to the Torture Exhibition (If option selected)
Meeting Point
Full Description
Explore the hidden underground vaults below the streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town with an experienced guide on this walking tour. The vaults of the South Bridge were constructed in the 1700s and later became home to residents, illicit activities, and eerie legends — and today are often considered haunted. During the tour, you’ll learn about how these vaults were used over the years, hear about notorious events such as the Burke and Hare murders, and discover stories of witches and restless spirits. The darker side of Edinburgh’s history unfolds as you wander the candlelit spaces. Some ticket options include entry to a torture exhibition that explores how and why various historical punishment devices were used.
Know Before You Go
- This tour is in English only. There are no audio guides or translations available
- The entrance of the vaults has a 2-foot tall step and may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
- Single-floor spiral staircase at entrance/exit of vaults and further small sections of stairs inside
- The walking pace and terrain may not be suitable for those with any difficulty walking
- Filming or live streaming of the tour is strictly forbidden
- Some historical content may be of a distressing nature and may include subjects like torture, hangings, death, and the like
- Tour without Torture Exhibition suggested suitable for ages 5+
- Tour with Torture Exhibition suggested suitable for ages 12+
- Children under 2 years not permitted.
- Anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be turned away
What to bring:
- Comfortable shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Not allowed:
- Pets (assistance dogs allowed)
- Intoxication
- Alcohol and drugs
- Unaccompanied minors
Not suitable for:
- Children under 2 years
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
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Per Person
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