Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Edinburgh’s dark side lurks within its historic streets. The "Dark Side Walking Tour" invites visitors to uncover the city’s harrowing past. Guides Alasdair and G lead participants through winding alleys, sharing chilling tales of infamous figures and disturbing histories. From bodysnatchers to victims of witch trials, this immersive experience reveals Edinburgh’s macabre underbelly. Those seeking a haunting glimpse into the city’s dark legacy won’t want to miss this captivating tour.

Key Points

• The Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s historic street, serves as the gateway to exploring the city’s sinister past, including infamous bodysnatchers and victims of brutal witch trials.
• Canongate Kirkyard, a historic cemetery, uncovers chilling tales of grave robbing, witchcraft, and the final resting place of notorious serial killers Burke and Hare.
• The winding alleys of Edinburgh’s Old Town reveal a tapestry of macabre tales, including accounts of notorious body snatchers and significant sites related to witchcraft trials.
• The tour delves into sinister tales of cannibals and vampires, including the murders committed by Burke and Hare and the alleged existence of vampires like Nannie Lee.
• The knowledgeable and captivating guides, Alasdair and G, bring the dark side of Edinburgh’s history to life, ensuring an unforgettable experience for participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Royal Mile: Gateway to Edinburgh’s Dark Past

The Royal Mile serves as the gateway to Edinburgh’s dark past. Lined with historic buildings and closes, this famous street sets the stage for the city’s notorious history.

Walking along the Mile, visitors can imagine the shadowy figures that once roamed these streets – from infamous bodysnatchers like Burke and Hare to the victims of brutal witch trials.

The tour explores these dark tales, transporting participants back in time to uncover Edinburgh’s sinister underbelly.

From Canongate Kirkyard to the Canongate District, the Royal Mile provides a fitting starting point to explore the city’s macabre past.

Canongate Kirkyard: Unearthing Secrets of the Dead

Departing from the bustling Royal Mile, the tour now leads participants to the solemn grounds of Canongate Kirkyard.

This historic cemetery holds the graves of many notable figures, including members of Scottish nobility and religious leaders.

The guide recounts tales of grave robbing, witchcraft, and mysterious deaths that occurred within these hallowed walls.

Visitors will discover the final resting place of infamous serial killers Burke and Hare, whose notorious exploits shocked Edinburgh in the 19th century.

The tour provides a chilling glimpse into the city’s dark past, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the macabre history hidden beneath the surface.

Exploring the Macabre in Edinburgh’s Old Town

After exploring the sordid secrets of Canongate Kirkyard, the tour now ventures into the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

The guide leads the group through the winding alleys, unveiling a tapestry of macabre tales:

1. Visitors will learn about the notorious body snatchers, Burke and Hare, who supplied cadavers to medical schools by murdering unsuspecting victims.

2. The guide shares chilling accounts of mysterious killings and disappearances that have plagued the historic district over the centuries.

3. Stops include significant sites associated with witchcraft trials and the execution of condemned individuals.

4. Spine-tingling stories of vampires and other supernatural entities haunt the ancient streets, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for Edinburgh’s dark past.

Cannibals and Vampires: Uncovering Sinister Tales

As the tour progresses, the guide leads the group to uncover the sinister tales of cannibals and vampires that have haunted Edinburgh’s historic streets.

Visitors learn about the notorious grave robbers, Burke and Hare, who murdered lodgers to sell their bodies to medical schools.

The guide also shares chilling stories of alleged vampires, like Nannie Lee, who was believed to have risen from her grave to terrorize the local community.

These macabre tales captivate the group, who listen intently as they explore the eerie corners of the Canongate district and Arthur’s Seat.

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Witch Trials and Grave Robbing: Uncovering Disturbing Histories

The tour guide then recounts the disturbing histories of Edinburgh’s witch trials and grave robbing practices.

As the group listens intently, they learn:

1. During the 16th and 17th centuries, over 4,000 people, mostly women, were accused of witchcraft in Scotland, with many being executed.

2. The notorious Burke and Hare were infamous for murdering individuals and selling their bodies to medical schools for dissection.

3. The Resurrectionists, or "body snatchers," would exhume freshly buried corpses and sell them to anatomists, leading to the hotel of laws to prevent grave robbing.

4. These macabre tales shed light on Edinburgh’s sinister past, capturing the audience’s morbid fascination.

Alasdair and G: Guides Who Bring the Dark Side to Life

Though their backgrounds differ, Alasdair and G are guides who captivate audiences with their engaging narratives of Edinburgh’s dark history.

Alasdair’s encyclopedic knowledge and storytelling flair bring infamous figures like Burke and Hare to life. G’s refreshing, history-informed perspective offers a unique take on tales of witch trials and grave robbing.

Both guides seamlessly weave disturbing details into their tours, immersing visitors in Edinburgh’s sinister past.

Whether it’s Alasdair’s enchanting delivery or G’s delightful charm, these guides ensure the dark side of the city is never forgotten, leaving participants with an unforgettable experience.

Navigating the Tour: Accessibility and Logistics

While the "Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s sinister past, it’s important to consider the tour’s accessibility.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves navigating uneven terrain and historic sites that may present physical challenges.

Booking details indicate:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Reserve now and pay later option available.

3. Tour duration is 2 hours.

4. Meeting point is at the corner of The Royal Mile and Stevenlaws Close.

Participants should plan accordingly and communicate any accessibility needs prior to booking.

Customer Reviews: A Chilling Endorsement

Overwhelmingly, customers have praised the "Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour" for its engaging and informative nature.

With an impressive 4.9/5 guide rating and 4.7/5 value for money, the tour has captivated visitors from around the world.

Alasdair, the tour guide, is singled out for his "lovely" presence and "great knowledge," while G is lauded for their "delightful and entertaining" take on the city’s macabre history.

Reviewers consistently describe the tour as "informative and fun," offering a refreshing perspective that brings Edinburgh’s dark past to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children, as it covers dark historical topics like witch trials, grave robbing, and cannibalism. Parents should consider the appropriateness of the content for their children’s ages and sensibilities.

Can I Bring My Camera on the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring cameras on the tour. However, it’s important to be respectful and avoid disrupting the guide or other participants. Photography may be restricted in some sensitive areas during the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors should dress comfortably and wear appropriate clothing for walking. The tour takes place outdoors, so layered clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

No, participants generally cannot leave the tour group at any time. Walking tours typically require guests to stay with the group for the safety and flow of the experience. Leaving would mean missing key parts of the itinerary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is open to participants of all ages, though it may not be suitable for young children due to the nature of the content.

The Sum Up

The "Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s eerie past. Guided by Alasdair and G, participants explore the Royal Mile’s haunting history, uncovering chilling tales of infamous figures, victims of witch trials, and mysterious deaths. This immersive experience provides an unforgettable glimpse into Edinburgh’s macabre underbelly, leaving visitors with a haunting understanding of the city’s dark side.

You can check availability for your dates here: