Historical Underground & Old Town Tour with City of Edinburgh Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with moderate walking involved
Overview
Uncover Edinburgh’s hidden past on a guided journey through the Old Town and its mysterious Underground Vaults. Dive into stories of crime, history, and Victorian secrets beneath the city streets. Perfect for history lovers and curious adventurers alike!
Old Town & Underground Historical Tour
Ages 5 and up! • 90 min • Great for Families! • World Famous Tour!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating historical walking tour of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, guided by a local historian. Discover hidden Victorian gardens, the origins of the Black Market, and the tales of infamous criminals. Explore the eerie Underground Vaults and uncover the city's rich, dark history that shaped its unique character.
Join a local historian on our historical walking tour around Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. Learn about Edinburgh’s fascinating history, literature heroes, infamous criminals and battles that shaped our city into what is today.
Duration
90 Minutes
About
This tour will take you into parts of Edinburgh that you did not know existed, off the tourist trail. From hidden Victorian gardens to centuries old buildings with plenty a story attached.
Hear about how the first skyscrapers in the world were built in Edinburgh, indeed we hosted the tallest buildings in the world long before any other country caught onto the trend. Find out who the famous local criminal was that became the inspiration for Jekyll & Hyde. Learn where the word Black Market came from, where Ebeneezer Scrooge is buried (yes, really) and how Edinburgh University worked closely with the serial killers Burke & Hare.
Edinburgh’s history is long and fascinating, made even more special when told by our enthusiastic and passionate guides.
Our tour includes a visit to Edinburgh’s Underground Vaults, one of the most hidden and historic places in all of Edinburgh. Your guide will tell you about our Underground’s dark history and some of the strangest things that happen down there as well as some famous historic characters connected to our specific vaults.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The underground chambers and cobbled streets require sturdy footwear for a safe, comfortable experience.
Bring a flashlight
Some vaults are dark; a small flashlight enhances visibility and adds to the sense of adventure.
Dress for the weather
While much of the tour is indoors or underground, unpredictable weather can affect outdoor walking sections.
Prepare for uneven surfaces
Cobblestones and historic flooring can be uneven—watch your step to avoid tripping.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban foxes
- Pigeons
History
Edinburgh’s underground vaults were constructed to serve as storage and hiding places, but many were repurposed for criminal activities during tumultuous times.
Conservation
Tour operators like this promote sustainable tourism by managing visitor numbers and respecting historical sites, ensuring Edinburgh’s heritage remains intact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
The historic streets and underground chambers require sturdy, comfortable footwear for easy navigation.
Small flashlight
Helpful for illuminating darker vaults and underground passages.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dressing in layers ensures comfort during outdoor walking and indoor visits.
all specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the walk, especially in warmer months.