Dark Side Tour in St Andrews by Walking Tours in the UK
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate walking ability required over cobbled and uneven surfaces; suitable for most fitness levels.
Overview
Unearth St Andrews' eerie past with a private Dark Side Tour. Discover gangster links, ghost stories, and macabre events narrated by a local expert.
Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour
£95 per Group • 1.5 hours • All ages • Private Tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling private Dark Side Tour of St Andrews, where you'll uncover chilling tales of gangsters, ghosts, and gruesome events. Explore the city's haunting history, from the mysterious sausage massacre to Al Capone's connections, all guided by a local expert. Experience the darker side of Scotland's iconic landmarks!
About
Originally run as a sold-out event over Halloween, we're excited to offer our Dark Side Tour as a private tour. A castle, a cathedral, and the oldest university in Scotland - St Andrews is home to iconic stories that have shaped Scotland's past and present, but this tour isn't for the lighthearted.
From wild rabbits overtaking the Old Course to a mysterious poisonous sausage massacre and even the plague, St Andrews is steeped in dark, mystic history. Walk in the footsteps of gangsters, murderers, and marytrs.
Tour highlights:
- The Rabbit War
- Al Capone's link to St Andrews
- The ghost of Tom Morris
- The sausage massacre …& much more!
Join your local guide and discover the horrific tales of martyrs, executions, ghosts and more as this quaint town's dark history is brought to life.
Price: £95 for a group of up to 4 then £15pp
Duration: 1.5 hours
Start time & location: choose your start time in the booking form. We can start the tour at the central location of the Martyr's Memorial on The Scores, or we can meet at your hotel (email us to change start location).
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
This 1.5-hour walking tour covers cobblestone streets and uneven pathways, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Bring a flashlight for evening tours
If you choose a twilight start, a small flashlight or headlamp can enhance visibility on dimly lit streets.
Book in advance for private tours
Private tours fill quickly, especially around Halloween—reserve early to secure your preferred time slot.
Prepare for storytelling in outdoor settings
Tours run rain or shine; bring weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable during pauses at historic sites.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seagulls and coastal birds near the castle ruins
- Occasional sightings of rabbits in the Old Course area
History
St Andrews hosts Scotland’s oldest university and was once the site of political and religious turmoil that shaped national identity.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving St Andrews’ historic stone structures and coastal environment, balancing tourism with heritage protection.
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Adventure Hotspots in Glasgow
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Protects feet on cobbled streets and uneven ground common in historic St Andrews.
Weatherproof jacket
Keeps you dry and warm during Scotland’s frequently changing weather.
spring|fall|winter specific
Flashlight or headlamp
Useful for tours starting at dusk or after dark to navigate dimly lit areas.
summer|fall|winter specific
Small backpack
Handy for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers on your walk.