Haunted Vaults Adventure with Auld Reekie Tours in Edinburgh
Difficulty
easy
Duration
60 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, but requires basic mobility to navigate uneven floors and stairs.
Overview
Descend beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town with Auld Reekie Tours on The Vaults Tour — a spine-tingling adventure through haunted chambers steeped in crime, witchcraft, and history. Dare to uncover what lurks below?
The Vaults Tour
Bestselling Tour! • Daily every 30 minutes from 10am-4:30pm• 60 minutes
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a chilling journey through Edinburgh's haunted underground vaults, where tales of crime, disease, and witchcraft await. Explore dimly lit chambers, including a genuine witchcraft temple and the infamous stone circle. This guided tour promises a spine-tingling experience steeped in history and paranormal intrigue. Dare to uncover the secrets below?
SCOTLAND’S MOST HAUNTED UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE
All children aged up to 15 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Not suitable for children under 5 years old.
Children under 2 years of age not allowed on tour.
The walking pace and terrain may not be suitable for those with any difficulty walking.
Animals are not allowed on the tour except for assistance animals. Alcohol is not permitted on the tour and anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be turned away.
Duration
60 minutes
Dates
Daily
About
Visit the infamous vaults hidden under the South Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers and witches alike! Each vault has stories of crime, disease and death and lots more, with which your guide shall enlighten you with all the gory details. You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by the “Source Coven of the Blue Dragon” and you will enter their former temple, and learn why it was no longer safe for them to practise their craft in that vault. DARE you step inside the infamous stone circle?
What to Bring
-
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
-
Arrive 5 - 10 minutes early to ensure a timely departure.
-
Tours will not wait for latecomers so please do not be late.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes for uneven underground terrain
The vaults have uneven cobbled floors and low lighting, so solid footwear is crucial for safety and comfort.
Arrive early to avoid missing the tour
Tours run on a strict schedule and won't wait for latecomers; plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before your start time.
Not recommended for those with mobility issues
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and narrow passages that may be difficult for people with limited mobility.
Dress for Scotland’s unpredictable weather
While underground areas are sheltered, you’ll spend some time outside walking between sites—bring a waterproof jacket.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons frequenting the vault entrance areas
- Urban foxes in Old Town back alleys
History
The South Bridge vaults originally served as workshops and storage in the 18th century, later descending into slums where some of Edinburgh's darkest stories unfolded.
Conservation
Auld Reekie Tours maintains the vaults with respect for their historical integrity, minimizing visitor impact while preserving sensitive structures and cultural heritage.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports foot stability on uneven and cobbled underground surfaces.
Light jacket or waterproof
Protects against Scotland’s frequent rain and variable temperatures.
spring|fall|winter specific
Small flashlight
Helpful for seeing details in darker vault corners if allowed.
Camera
Capture unique underground spaces and street scenes along the Royal Mile.