Edinburgh, a city steeped in history, offers an unforgettable tour for those intrigued by its dark past. The Ghost and Gore Walking Tour takes visitors on a chilling journey through the city’s grim legacy of torture, witchcraft, and mayhem. Participants will encounter ghostly figures from Edinburgh’s history, including a notorious witch and a wild Highlander, while also witnessing public demonstrations of spine-tingling torture devices. Complementing the experience, visitors will receive a copy of the ‘Witchery Tales‘ book, providing a unique glimpse into the city’s grisly past. For those seeking to uncover Edinburgh’s hidden horrors, this tour promises an immersive and captivating encounter.
Just The Basics
- An 80-minute evening walking tour exploring Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and its ghoulish past, including tales of torture, witchcraft, and mayhem.
- Participants encounter ghosts and characters from Edinburgh’s history, such as a bad-tempered witch, a grave-digger, and a wild Highlander.
- The tour features public demonstrations of spine-tingling torture devices and a complementary copy of the ‘Witchery Tales’ book.
- The tour starts at the Witchery Restaurant on Castlehill and concludes at the Lawnmarket, providing a comprehensive exploration of the Old Town.
- The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum group size of 25 travelers for an intimate and personalized experience.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
This 80-minute light-hearted evening walking tour of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town lets visitors explore the Royal Mile with their guide, the long-dead Mr. Alexander Clapperton.
Along the way, you will encounter the ghosts of Edinburgh’s past, including a bad-tempered witch, an energetic grave-digger, and a wild Highlander.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s ghoulish history, including tales of torture, witchcraft, plague, and mayhem.
During the tour, visitors will witness public demonstrations of spine-tingling torture devices and receive a complementary copy of the ‘Witchery Tales’ book by Adam Lyal (deceased).
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes the Famous Jumper-ooters, while gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off, and food and drink aren’t included. The Jumper-ooters are a renowned feature of the tour, providing participants with a unique and entertaining experience.
Though not included in the tour price, visitors can choose to tip the guide at their discretion, and they’ll need to make their own arrangements for transportation and refreshments.
The tour focuses on delivering a captivating exploration of Edinburgh’s ghoulish history, with the included items tailored to enhance this immersive experience. By clearly outlining the inclusions and exclusions, the tour operator ensures guests can plan their evening accordingly and make the most of the spooky adventure.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests gather outside the Witchery Restaurant on Castlehill, the designated meeting point for the 80-minute Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh.
The tour then concludes at the Lawnmarket, providing a comprehensive exploration of the historic Old Town.
The tour begins promptly at 7:00 PM, so participants should arrive a few minutes early to ensure they don’t miss the start.
The walking tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
Public transportation is available nearby, making it easy for guests to get to and from the tour.
With a maximum of 25 travelers per group, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience for all who attend.
Tour Highlights
During the tour, guests learn about Edinburgh’s ghoulish history, including tales of torture, witchcraft, plague, and mayhem.
Visitors witness public demonstrations of spine-tingling torture devices.
Plus, each guest receives a complementary copy of the ‘Witchery Tales‘ book by Adam Lyal (deceased).
The tour provides an engaging and educational experience, shedding light on the dark underbelly of Edinburgh’s past.
From the chilling accounts of witchcraft to the gruesome displays of historical torture methods, the tour immerses participants in the city’s grim legacy.
With the added bonus of the ‘Witchery Tales’ book, guests can continue exploring Edinburgh’s haunting history long after the tour has ended.
Additional Information
Confirmation’s received at time of booking, and the tour’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed.
It’s near public transportation, and surfaces are wheelchair-friendly too.
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions are required, though children must have at least one accompanying adult.
Tour size’s limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, and there’s a full refund if it’s canceled at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
Highlights include learning about Edinburgh’s ghoulish history, witnessing public demonstrations of spine-tingling torture devices, and receiving a complementary copy of the ‘Witchery Tales’ book.
With its light-hearted approach and encounters with the ghosts of Edinburgh’s past, this evening walking tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Ghosts and Witches of Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s haunted past comes alive on this tour, as guests encounter the restless spirits of the city’s notorious witches and other tormented souls. From the malicious Witch of Dean to the frenzied graverobber, the ghostly inhabitants of the Old Town make their presence known, offering a chilling glimpse into Scotland’s dark history.
Visitors will witness public demonstrations of the cruel torture devices used to punish accused witches, and learn about the grisly fates that befell them. The tour also features a wild Highlander, whose restless spirit still roams the streets, a remnant of the city’s turbulent past.
Witch of Dean | Graverobber | Highlander |
---|---|---|
Malicious spirit | Frenzied and energetic | Restless soul |
Punished for witchcraft | Disturbed the dead | Remnant of turbulent past |
Torture Devices Demonstration
Visitors on the tour witness public demonstrations of the cruel torture devices used to punish accused witches, offering a chilling glimpse into Scotland’s dark history.
From the dreaded ‘Spanish Boots,’ which crushed the legs, to the ‘Iron Maiden,’ a spiked metal casket that impaled its victims, these instruments of agony reflect the brutal methods employed during the country’s infamous witch trials.
The guide provides vivid descriptions of how these devices operated, heightening the sense of unease among the group.
As the tour progresses, the participants gain a deeper understanding of the horrors faced by those accused of witchcraft and the merciless nature of the punishments they endured.
‘Witchery Tales’ Book Giveaway
Participants on the Ghost and Gore Walking Tour receive a complimentary copy of the ‘Witchery Tales‘ book by Adam Lyal (deceased), offering a chilling literary companion to their spine-tingling journey through Edinburgh’s dark history.
The book delves into the city’s grim past, recounting tales of torture, witchcraft, and macabre events that have haunted the streets for centuries. From ghastly recounts of public executions to spine-chilling encounters with the supernatural, the ‘Witchery Tales’ provides a captivating glimpse into Edinburgh’s haunted heritage.
This gripping collection of short stories serves as the perfect souvenir, allowing tour-goers to relive the eerie experiences long after the tour has ended.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends
- The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English
- Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh
- Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands With Lunch From Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour With Entry Ticket
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a specific dress code. Guests are advised to dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear for an evening walking tour, as the terrain may be uneven. No formal attire is required.
Are Cameras Allowed During the Tour?
Cameras are allowed during the tour. Guests are welcome to take photos and capture their experience, though guides may request that photos not be taken during certain portions of the tour for safety or privacy reasons.
How Often Do the Tours Run Throughout the Week?
The tours run daily at 7:00 PM. They offer an 80-minute walking tour exploring Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and uncovering its ghoulish past. The tours have a maximum capacity of 25 travelers.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as policies may vary. Most tours encourage light refreshments to enjoy during the experience.
Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for young children. The tour information states that "Children must be accompanied by at least one adult", indicating that families with young children are welcome on the tour.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Scottish Highland Games Day Trip From Edinburgh
- From Edinburgh: St Andrews & Fishing Villages of Fife Tour
- Life Drawing Class for Special Occassion Edinburgh
- Edinburgh’s Loathsome Lawbreakers: A True Crime Walking Tour
- Edinburgh Private Tour
- Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh City One Way Private Transfer
- Edinburgh Private Tour: The Castle to the Arthurs Seat
- Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh City Plus Return Journey Private Transfer
- Afternoon Whisky Tasting in a Traditional Edinburgh Bar
- Edinburgh: Guided Whisky Tasting & Walking Tour
- Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Full-Day Private Tour in a Premium Minivan
- From Edinburgh: Outlander, Palaces and Jacobites Tour
- Edinburgh: Fun Team Building Interactive Treasure Hunt
- Edinburgh: 2-Hour Ghost Tour in English
- Edinburgh: Private Architecture Tour With a Local Expert
Final Words
The Ghost and Gore Walking Tour of Edinburgh offers a captivating exploration of the city’s ghoulish past.
Participants will encounter ghostly figures, learn about the dark history of torture and witchcraft, and receive a complimentary copy of the ‘Witchery Tales‘ book, providing an immersive and entertaining experience for those interested in Edinburgh’s grim legacy.