Edinburgh: Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour

Edinburgh’s dark history is not for the faint of heart. The Royal Mile walking tour delves into the city’s sinister past, inviting visitors to uncover the tales of notorious criminals and the macabre practices that once shocked the nation. As you wander through the historic streets, prepare to be captivated by stories of plague, resurrection, and ghostly legends that lurk in the shadows of this captivating city.

Key Points

• Explore the dark history of Edinburgh’s infamous residents, such as serial killers Burke and Hare, and the city’s reputation for a sinister underbelly.
• Visit the Canongate Graveyard, home to notorious criminals, murderers, and cannibals, and learn about the impact of the Plague and body snatching.
• Discover the city’s complex and haunting past by hearing gripping accounts of the devastating impact of the Plague on the population.
• Uncover the chilling tales of notorious thieves and murderers, including the Burke and Hare murders, that illustrate Edinburgh’s seedy side.
• Explore the origins of Edinburgh’s ghost stories and supernatural legends, exploring the city’s eerie architecture and its links to the supernatural.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Edinburgh’s Infamous Residents

Although Edinburgh is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history, the city has also been home to a number of infamous residents.

The notorious serial killer Burke and Hare, who murdered lodgers and sold their bodies to medical schools, have become synonymous with Edinburgh’s dark past.

The Wizard of West Bow, known as Major Weir, was infamously executed for witchcraft and incest.

Notorious thieves like Deacon Brodie, who inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde," lurked in the shadows of the city’s historic streets.

These stories reveal Edinburgh’s sinister underbelly.

Discovering Canongate Graveyard

The tour now moves to Canongate Graveyard, where visitors can uncover the origins of Edinburgh’s most chilling ghost stories.

Wandering through the ancient headstones, guests learn how notorious criminals, murderers, and even cannibals were laid to rest within these hallowed grounds.

The guide shares macabre tales of the Plague’s devastating impact, as well as the city’s association with body snatchers who supplied medical schools with cadavers.

Exploring the graveyard’s eerie atmosphere, the tour delves into the supernatural legends that have haunted the Old Town for centuries, captivating visitors with Edinburgh’s dark and fascinating history.

Unraveling the Mystery of Edinburgh’s Plague

What stories lurk within the shadows of Edinburgh’s Plague-ridden past?

During the tour, visitors learn how the city was ravaged by disease, death, and desperation in the 17th century.

They’ll hear chilling tales of the Plague’s impact – from the horrific treatments prescribed, to the desperate measures taken to halt its spread.

As they walk the Royal Mile, guides share gripping accounts of the Plague’s toll, bringing the historical tragedy to vivid life.

Through these dark stories, guests gain a deeper understanding of Edinburgh’s complex and haunting history.

Delving Into the Notorious Thieves and Murderers

As visitors wander the winding streets of the Royal Mile, they’ll uncover a dark and violent past that has long haunted Edinburgh.

The tour delves into the city’s notorious thieves and murderers, sharing chilling tales of pickpockets who prowled the alleyways and cold-blooded killers who lurked in the shadows.

The Royal Mile’s dark past unveils a sinister world of pickpockets and cold-blooded killers lurking in the shadows.

From the infamous ‘Resurrection Men’ who supplied bodies for medical research to the Burke and Hare murders that shocked the nation, the stories vividly illustrate Edinburgh’s seedy underbelly.

Travelers leave with a deeper understanding of the city’s macabre history and the darkness that once permeated the Royal Mile.

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Uncovering the Origins of Chilling Ghost Stories

Beyond the infamous tales of thieves and murderers, the tour also explores the origins of Edinburgh’s chilling ghost stories.

Visitors venture into the Canongate Graveyard, where many a dark tale was born. The tour guide reveals how:

• Centuries-old graveyards and crypts serve as backdrops for ghost sightings.

• Unexplained noises and eerie shadows stem from the city’s haunted past.

• Folklore and superstitions contribute to the proliferation of ghost stories.

• Edinburgh’s distinct architecture and atmospheric vibe lend themselves to supernatural narratives.

Through expert storytelling, the tour uncovers the unsettling roots of the city’s ghostly legends, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s otherworldly allure.

Exploring the Hidden Gems of the Old Town

Where else can visitors unearth the hidden gems of Edinburgh’s Old Town beyond the iconic Royal Mile?

This walking tour ventures down less-trodden alleys and closes, revealing the city’s storied past. Participants will discover historic landmarks that often go unnoticed, like the Canongate Graveyard where generations of notorious figures lie.

The guide shares compelling tales of this area’s chequered history – from the dark deeds of murderers and thieves to the ravages of the Plague.

Navigating the Contrasts of the "Jekyll & Hyde City"

Edinburgh, known as the "Jekyll & Hyde City," presents visitors with a striking contrast between its respectable daytime image and a darker, more notorious history.

Beneath the grandeur of the Royal Mile and stately architecture lies a past shrouded in tales of murder, theft, and the supernatural.

Key aspects of this duality include:

• Canongate Graveyard, where ghost stories and legends of the macabre originate

• Notorious historical figures, such as serial killers and grave robbers

• The Plague’s devastating impact on the city’s population

• Chilling accounts of the city’s seedy underbelly, including cannibalism

This walking tour delves into these hidden facets, offering an immersive experience that challenges visitors’ perceptions of Scotland’s capital.

Taking in Compelling Storytelling

As visitors embark on the "Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour," they’re immersed in compelling historical narratives delivered by expert storytellers.

The guide brings Edinburgh’s notorious past to life, sharing chilling tales of murderers, thieves, and the city’s brush with the Plague.

From the Canongate Graveyard to hidden gems of the Old Town, the tour blends lesser-known facts with expert storytelling, captivating participants.

Reviewers praise the guide’s excellent and engaging delivery, highlighting the value of immersing in Edinburgh’s "Jekyll & Hyde" duality through this walking tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are generally not allowed on walking tours due to safety and accessibility concerns. However, service animals that are trained to assist individuals with disabilities are typically permitted on tours.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

There’s no mention of student or senior discounts for this tour. However, you can reserve your spot now and pay later to lock in the advertised per person price from $19.46.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, covering the historic Royal Mile. Participants should be prepared to walk for approximately 2 hours, with some stops along the way to hear stories and explore the city’s dark history.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though they should be mindful not to disrupt the guide’s storytelling or the experience of other guests. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Is There a Restroom Break During the 2-Hour Tour?

The tour does not include a scheduled restroom break. However, the meeting point is near public facilities, so participants can use the restroom before or after the 2-hour tour if needed.

The Sum Up

The Edinburgh: Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s chilling past. Visitors will uncover the grim tales of notorious criminals, the devastation of the Plague, and the macabre practices of resurrectionists. The haunting atmosphere of Canongate Graveyard adds to the allure, making this tour a gripping journey into Edinburgh’s sinister history.

You can check availability for your dates here: