Explore Edinburgh’s Dark Past: The Damned Souls Lantern Tour Experience
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, involving walking on paved and cobbled streets for approximately 1.5 hours.
Overview
Discover Edinburgh’s haunted Old Town on a 90-minute private lantern tour, exploring grisly tales and ghostly legends culminating at the infamous Greyfriars Cemetery. Perfect for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike.
1h30 private tour: Damned Souls of Edinburgh | English
Shiver with us • 1h30
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About This Adventure
Embark on a chilling 90-minute lantern-lit tour through Edinburgh's dark history, uncovering tales of murder, fires, and ghostly encounters. Conclude your adventure at Greyfriars Cemetery, where you can attempt to connect with spirits. This unique experience promises thrills for families with children aged 7 and up.
Discover the terrible and terrifying history of Edinburgh by the light of a lantern.
Duration
1h30
About
Murders, fires burning the townspeople alive, and of course ghosts await you. End the tour at Greyfriars Cemetery to try to contact some ghosts yourself!
Some important notes
- This tour is for children aged 7+
- Bring comfortable shoes, rain wear and warm clothes.
Adventure Tips
Bring a warm jacket
Evenings in Edinburgh can be chilly year-round, so dress warmly to stay comfortable during the outdoor walking tour.
Wear sturdy shoes
The tour involves walking on uneven cobblestone streets—comfortable, supportive footwear is a must.
Book ahead for private groups
Private bookings ensure a personal experience and are popular during peak tourist seasons.
No photography during the tour
To maintain the atmosphere and respect sensitive locations, photography is restricted during storytelling sections.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban foxes that occasionally appear at dusk
- Peregrine falcons nesting on tall Old Town rooftops
History
Edinburgh’s Old Town dates back to the medieval period and has been shaped by tragic events like the Great Fire of 1824.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes respecting historic sites and minimizing disturbance to preserved Old Town areas and Greyfriars Cemetery.
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Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cool autumn evenings on the walking tour.
fall specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports your feet on Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets and uneven pathways.
Scarf or hat
Extra protection against the cold wind common in Scottish winters.
winter specific
Portable flashlight
Useful for personal lighting but tours provide lanterns.