Aberdeen: Private Dark Side Walking Tour

Discover the Dark Side of Aberdeen: A Tour Review

When it comes to exploring a city’s true character, a dark history tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the shadows of its past. The Aberdeen Private Dark Side Walking Tour promises an engaging, well-curated journey through the city’s more sinister stories—think murders, witches, and secret histories. With just 1.5 hours of walking, it’s a quick but compelling way to understand how Aberdeen’s past continues to echo through its streets today.

What immediately caught our eye about this tour? First, it’s a private experience, meaning you get the undivided attention of a local guide who can tailor the storytelling and answer your questions. Second, the focus on authentic, local insights elevates this beyond just a list of ghost stories—expect genuine tales rooted in Aberdeen’s history. A potential consideration? The tour involves walking in all weather conditions, so comfortable shoes are a must, and the content may not be suitable for children under 12 due to its sometimes sensitive themes.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, those curious about the darker side of cities, or travelers who enjoy storytelling that weaves history with a bit of spooky intrigue. It’s ideal for visitors with a flexible schedule looking for a short, local-led experience that’s both educational and entertaining.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic local storytelling brings Aberdeen’s darker past to life.
• The private group setting allows for personalized attention and in-depth discussion.
• 1.5-hour duration makes it an easy addition to a packed itinerary.
• Tour covers dark events like executions, witch trials, and ghost sightings.
• Walks past historic sites like the gallows and Saltoun Arms.
• Not suitable for children under 12, so plan accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Aberdeen Dark Side Tour

This private walking tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, local lore, and storytelling, making it an ideal way to explore a side of Aberdeen that most visitors don’t see. Starting outside the Tolbooth Museum—a site itself steeped in history—the guide meets you wearing a bright orange jacket, ready to lead your small group (up to 6 people) through the city streets.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour features several stops, each selected to reveal a different facet of Aberdeen’s darker history. While the exact route varies with flexibility, you’ll see key sites associated with its grim past.

Public executions and gallows are a major highlight. These sites serve as stark reminders of how justice was often swift—and brutal—in days gone by. The guide explains how these executions, often public spectacles, were both punishment and entertainment for the townspeople. Walking past these historical sites, you can almost hear the echoes of the crowd and the clink of the axes.

The ghost of Marion Hardie is another intriguing story. While specific details aren’t provided here, stories of ghosts tied to historic events add a layer of haunted intrigue, perfect for those interested in spirits and supernatural tales. The guide will share the local legends and the truth behind these sightings, giving a balanced perspective.

Witch trials form a significant part of the narrative. Aberdeen’s history with witch accusations, including the infamous trials, is explained with clarity. You’ll learn how fear and superstition led to accusations, arrests, and executions, and how these events shaped local attitudes and societal norms.

Other notable stops include the Saltoun Arms, where violent incidents and killings are remembered, and sites linked to body snatching and kidnappers—dark chapters of medical and criminal history. These stories reveal a city intertwined with crime, superstition, and justice.

What to Expect During the Tour

You’ll walk at a comfortable pace, led by a knowledgeable guide eager to share stories that are both entertaining and enlightening. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it manageable for most travelers. The ability to customize start times and meeting points adds flexibility, accommodating your schedule.

As you explore Aberdeen’s streets, expect to hear tales of murderers, witches, and public executions, all woven into the fabric of the city’s history. The guide’s storytelling is engaging, mixing facts with local legends, which keeps the atmosphere lively and thought-provoking.

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The Value of the Experience

For $168 per group (up to 6 people), you get an intimate, personalized experience that’s much more than a scripted tour. This is a chance to ask questions, hear stories from a local perspective, and see the city through a darker, more intriguing lens. While no additional paid admissions are included, the tour’s value lies in its storytelling and access to sites you might not explore on your own.

What Others Say

One reviewer praised the guide’s passion and knowledge, saying, “Kirsty was a wonderful tour guide! If you enjoy archaeology, history, and spooky tales, definitely check her tour out.” They appreciated the “intriguing visits” to crime sites, cemeteries, and folklore locations, noting how the time flew by thanks to the engaging narrative.

Another review highlights the educational aspect, mentioning the “knowledgeable insight” into Picts and tribes, which adds depth to the dark stories. The personal stories and local legends make this tour memorable, especially for those who love history mixed with a pinch of the supernatural.

Practical Details

Meeting outside the Tolbooth Museum, the guide is easy to spot in a bright orange jacket. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for those with mobility needs. It’s not suitable for children under 12, primarily due to the nature of the stories, which can be intense or sensitive.

Given Aberdeen’s sometimes unpredictable weather, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour does not include other paid admissions, so plan accordingly if you want to visit specific sites afterward.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, for travelers who crave a different perspective on Aberdeen. This experience offers a personalized, engaging, and authentic way to understand the city’s more shadowy history. It’s perfect for history lovers, ghost hunters, or anyone interested in how a city’s past influences its present.

The price, while not the cheapest, reflects the private guide service, making it a good value for those wanting a tailored experience. The 1.5-hour length means you can easily incorporate it into a broader itinerary without missing out on other attractions or activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy stories of witch hunts, executions, and murders, you’ll find plenty to fascinate you here. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a small, private group rather than a large tour. Since the content isn’t suitable for children under 12, families with older kids or teens interested in spooky stories will enjoy it.

Travelers with a curiosity about local legends, ghost stories, and historical crime will find this tour both entertaining and educational. It’s particularly appealing if you want to see Aberdeen through an unusual lens—beyond its famous granite architecture or harbor views.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes walking through Aberdeen’s streets.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private tour with a local guide. No additional paid admissions are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 due to its dark subject matter.

Are there flexible start times?
Yes, you can check availability for different start times and meeting points to suit your schedule.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because the tour involves walking, and be prepared for all weather conditions.

Does the tour include ghost stories?
Yes, stories of spirits and hauntings, such as the ghost of Marion Hardie, are part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Aberdeen Private Dark Side Walking Tour offers a compelling, well-informed look at the city’s more mysterious and often overlooked history. It’s a lively, personal journey through stories of crime, superstition, and justice, brought to life by a passionate local guide. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story enthusiast, or simply curious about what lies in the shadows of Aberdeen, this tour makes for an engaging and memorable experience.

For travelers seeking an authentic, small-group adventure that blends fact and folklore, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a quick, meaningful taste of Aberdeen’s darker past, all while walking the charming streets that whisper stories of times long gone.

You can check availability for your dates here: