Edinburgh: Haunted Vaults Walking Tour & Royal Mile Stories

Summary

Royal Mile legends, haunted vaults & dark Edinburgh secrets

You’ll follow your guide down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into hidden 1700s vaults, see real torture relics up close, and hear stories of crime and survival in the city’s underbelly. Expect chills (sometimes literal) and moments where history feels too close for comfort — but that’s half the thrill.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to keep up,” our guide grinned, waving us down the Royal Mile. I was still chewing on a sausage roll from earlier — probably not the best choice before a haunted vaults walking tour, but there you go. The street was all cobbles and chatter, bagpipes echoing somewhere behind us. Our group shuffled closer as we stopped at a nondescript doorway. “This is where things get interesting,” he said, and I swear the air felt colder already.

The first thing that hit me underground wasn’t fear — it was the damp, almost sour smell of old stone. Our guide flicked his torch along the walls, pausing at some rusted iron contraption. “Torture exhibition,” he announced, like it was just another Tuesday in Edinburgh. He explained how these things were used back in the day (I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say people were inventive). Someone asked if any ghosts had ever shown up mid-tour; he just smiled and said, “Depends who’s listening.” I liked that answer.

We wound through narrow passages where you could feel history pressing in — literally, sometimes; I scraped my elbow on a wall and tried not to yelp. There was this moment when everyone went quiet for no reason at all except maybe nerves or respect for what happened here. You could almost hear distant footsteps above us or maybe that was just my imagination running wild again. Either way, I still think about that silence.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults

• Meet guide at starting point
• Walk down Royal Mile with stops
• Visit torture exhibition
• Enter vaults and hear history
• Learn about paranormal events

Top questions

How long does the haunted vaults walking tour last?

The tour duration isn’t specified but includes stops along the Royal Mile plus time inside the vaults and torture exhibition.

Is this tour suitable for children?

No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 years old due to distressing historical content.

Where does the tour start?

The guide meets the group on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile before leading everyone to the vault entrance.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the haunted vaults walking tour.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options available near the meeting point on the Royal Mile.

Is there a lot of walking or stairs involved?

Yes; expect uneven terrain, a 2ft stair at entrance, spiral stairs, and more inside the vaults.

What is included with my ticket?

Your admission ticket covers entry to both the haunted vaults and torture exhibition with your guide.

Can I film or livestream during the tour?

No filming or live streaming is allowed during this haunted vaults walking tour; you may be ejected if you do so.

What’s included

Your experience includes an admission ticket covering access to Edinburgh’s historic underground vaults and torture exhibition with your local guide leading you through every shadowy corner along the way.