Discover Edinburgh's underground secrets on a haunting journey through the city's eerie vaults, guided by seasoned storytellers. A must-do for history lovers and thrill-seekers alike! Read more to uncover the dark tales of Edinburgh’s subterranean world.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Light physical activity; suitable for most ages
Wildlife
History
The vaults were used for storage, workshops, and shelter, reflecting Edinburgh's bustling urban life in the 1700s.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve these medieval structures, ensuring they remain a part of Edinburgh's historic fabric.
Auld Reekie Tours
Discover Edinburgh's underground secrets on a haunting journey through the city's eerie vaults, guided by seasoned storytellers. A must-do for history lovers and thrill-seekers alike! Read more to uncover the dark tales of Edinburgh’s subterranean world.
Auld Reekie Tours is a specialist tour operator based in Edinburgh, Scotland, offering guided ghost and history tours focused on the city's underground vaults and haunted landmarks. The company leads visitors through authentic sites in Edinburgh's Old Town, including the South Bridge vaults, the Niddry Street vaults, Greyfriars Graveyard, and routes along the Royal Mile. Each tour is guided by an expert who presents documented history, local folklore, and first-hand accounts to place guests in the historical context of 18th- and 19th-century Edinburgh.
Tours are structured as short, focused experiences lasting between 60 and 90 minutes, designed to appeal to both visitors seeking historical insight and those drawn to paranormal stories. Offerings include the Haunted Vaults Tour (60 minutes), the Vaults & Graveyard Tour (90 minutes), The Terror Tour (75 minutes), and The Vaults Tour. Guides point out architectural details, documented events, and preserved features of the vaults while explaining how slum dwellings, crime, and social conditions shaped the area’s reputation.
Auld Reekie Tours operates solely in Edinburgh and emphasizes factual storytelling rooted in known sites and local tradition. The company’s itineraries consistently highlight the physical locations named in tour descriptions—Greyfriars Graveyard, South Bridge vaults, Niddry Street vaults, and the Royal Mile—ensuring guests see the same historic places referenced in promotional material.
Visitors can expect guided, on-foot tours suitable for those able to navigate narrow underground spaces and historic streets.
Location
Edinburgh, Scotland
Historic Old Town setting
Tour Lengths
60–90 minutes
Short, guided experiences
Tours Offered
4 tours
Varied haunted routes
Key Sites
Greyfriars, Royal Mile, Vaults
Famous Edinburgh locations
Reserve a 60–90 minute guided experience through Edinburgh’s vaults and graveyard legends — limited group sizes, expert guides, unforgettable stories.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes
The vaults involve walking through narrow, uneven passages, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp
Some areas are dimly lit, and additional light can enhance your experience and safety.
Expect some haunted stories
Prepare for spooky tales—reactions vary, so keep an open mind and enjoy the thrill.
Book in advance
Popular tours fill quickly, especially during peak season, so reserve your spot early.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating the uneven, historic floors of the vaults.
Small flashlight or headlamp
Enhances visibility in dark areas and increases safety.
Warm clothing
Vaults can be cool and damp, so dress accordingly.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the eerie ambiance and historic details underground.