Explore the macabre history of Greyfriars Kirkyard after dark on this captivating private tour. Uncover the graveyard’s dark past, from the persecuted covenanters to the notorious bodysnatchers. Explore the stories woven into this hallowed ground, from the unmarked graves of executed criminals to the lavish tombs of noble families. With exclusive access and interactive projections, this intimate experience promises to immerse you in Edinburgh’s rich and sometimes grisly history. What secrets lie hidden within the shadows of Greyfriars Kirkyard?
Key Points
- Guided exploration of Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh, uncovering its dark history and tales of covenanters, bodysnatchers, and the macabre stories of the buried.
- Interactive projections that immerse guests in the rich legacy of the ancient graveyard, including the grave of famous Greyfriars Bobby.
- Private tour ensures an intimate experience for the group, with access to hidden corners and forgotten stories.
- Discover the persecuted religious reformers buried in mass graves, marked by simple gravestones, and the notorious criminals who stole corpses.
- Tour pricing starts at £40 for up to four people, with stroller-friendly access and a meeting point next to Greyfriars Bobby’s grave.
Tour Overview
The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour offers a nighttime guided exploration of this historic cemetery in Edinburgh, allowing visitors to discover corners and stories that most miss.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour brings the landmark alive through interactive projections, immersing guests in Edinburgh’s rich history.
From covenanters and bodysnatchers to murderers and the murdered, the tour delves into the graveyard’s wealth of compelling tales.
Starting at £40 for up to four people, the private tour ensures an intimate experience where only your group will participate.
Accessible for strollers but not wheelchairs, the tour meeting point is conveniently located next to the grave of the famous Greyfriars Bobby.
Stories of the Kirkyard
Private Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour – Meet the Dead of Old Edinburgh!
Stories of the Kirkyard
Visitors on the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour discover the graveyard’s dark and intriguing past, from the tales of covenanters persecuted for their religious beliefs to the grisly accounts of bodysnatchers prowling the cemetery in search of fresh cadavers.
Guides share the macabre stories of murderers who found their final resting place within the ancient walls, as well as the tragic tale of those who were brutally slain.
Travelers learn how the landmark’s rich history has left an indelible mark on the city of Edinburgh, with each crumbling gravestone serving as a window into the past.
Covenanters and Bodysnatchers
Private Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour – Meet the Dead of Old Edinburgh!
Often, the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour regales visitors with tales of the persecuted Covenanters who found their final resting place within the cemetery’s ancient walls. Likewise, guides recount the grisly accounts of bodysnatchers prowling the graveyard in search of fresh cadavers to sell to medical schools.
| Covenanters | Bodysnatchers |
|---|---|
| Persecuted religious reformers | Criminals who stole corpses |
| Buried in mass graves | Sold bodies to anatomy schools |
| Marked by simple gravestones | Operated under the cover of night |
| Exemplified resistance to the Crown | Faced public execution if caught |
| Remembered as martyrs for the cause | Left an enduring legacy of fear and horror |
Murderers and the Murdered
Private Greyfriars Kirkyard Tour – Meet the Dead of Old Edinburgh!
Alongside the tales of Covenanters and bodysnatchers, the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour also explores the gripping narratives of murderers and their victims, casting a somber yet captivating light on Edinburgh’s complex history.
The tour delves into:
- The case of Maggie Dickson, a woman who was wrongfully hanged for murdering her husband, only to return from the grave and live another 40 years.
- The grisly story of Burke and Hare, the notorious serial killers who sold the bodies of their victims to medical schools.
- The tragic fate of the Begbie sisters, whose mysterious deaths in the kirkyard remain shrouded in mystery to this day.
These chilling accounts provide a haunting glimpse into the darker corners of Edinburgh’s past.
Wealth of Kirkyard History
Beneath the centuries-old gravestones and weathered memorials of Greyfriars Kirkyard lies a wealth of captivating history waiting to be unearthed.
On this private tour, you’ll explore the fascinating annals of Old Edinburgh, uncovering tales of covenanters, bodysnatchers, and notorious murderers.
From the unmarked graves of executed criminals to the lavish tombs of noble families, every corner of the cemetery holds a story begging to be told.
Your guide will bring these long-forgotten histories to life, transporting you back in time and revealing the complex tapestry that has woven itself into the fabric of this hallowed ground.
Explore the hidden gems of Greyfriars and uncover the rich legacy that lies within.
Tour Pricing and Details
Pricing for the Greyfriars Kirkyard tour starts at £40 for up to four people, offering an accessible and engaging exploration of this historic landmark. The tour meeting point is conveniently located just inside the main entrance of the cemetery, next to the grave of Greyfriars Bobby.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and service animals are welcome. Participants can easily reach the meeting point via nearby public transportation, and the tour is suitable for most travelers.
The tour provides:
- Interactive projector displays to bring the graveyard’s stories to life.
- Exclusive access to hidden corners of the cemetery.
- Captivating tales of covenanters, bodysnatchers, murderers, and the murdered.
This private tour ensures your group has an intimate and immersive experience discovering the wealth of history in Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Meeting Point and Directions
The tour gathers participants just inside the main entrance of Greyfriars Kirkyard, adjacent to the iconic grave marker of Greyfriars Bobby. This meeting point is easy to find, right at the heart of the historic cemetery.
From there, the guide will lead you on an immersive exploration of the graveyard’s hidden corners and forgotten stories.
The tour ends back at the main entrance, so you can continue your Edinburgh adventures after the experience.
The location is stroller-accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly.
With public transportation nearby, it’s a convenient starting point to dive into the macabre mysteries of Greyfriars Kirkyard after dark.
Accessibility and Cancellation Policy
Though the tour may not be wheelchair-accessible, strollers are welcome. Cancelations made at least 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour offers several advantages for visitors:
- Service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for those who need them.
- The cemetery is located near public transportation, making it easy to reach.
- Most travelers are able to participate, making it an inclusive experience.
The tour is a private affair, with only your group in attendance. This allows for a more intimate and personalized exploration of the graveyard’s rich history and spooky tales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring a Flashlight for the Tour?
No, a flashlight is not necessary as the tour company provides lighting. Guides use interactive projectors to illuminate the cemetery during the nighttime tour, ensuring visitors can see the historical sights clearly without needing their own light source.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. It’s best to check with the tour guide beforehand for any specific photography guidelines.
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
Tickets can be purchased on the day of the tour, but it’s best to book in advance as tours often sell out. The tour operator recommends booking online to secure your spot.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no official dress code for the tour. Visitors can dress comfortably and wear appropriate attire for the weather. Casual, comfortable clothing and proper footwear are recommended to explore the historic cemetery during the nighttime guided tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children are welcome, though the content may be too creepy or dark for young kids. The tour is appropriate for most travelers aged 12 and up.
Recap
Enjoy the macabre history of Greyfriars Kirkyard on this captivating nighttime tour.
Uncover the graveyard’s dark past, from persecuted covenanters to notorious bodysnatchers.
Explore the unmarked graves and lavish tombs, delving into Edinburgh’s rich and sometimes grisly history.
With exclusive access, this private tour promises an intimate and immersive experience.
