Edinburgh: Monsters of The Royal Mile – A Dark History Tour

If you’re seeking a walk that mixes history with a good dose of the spooky, the Monsters of The Royal Mile – A Dark History Tour offers an intriguing peek into Edinburgh’s shadowy past. This two-hour guided journey takes you through the city’s historic streets, uncovering tales of real-life monsters, legendary characters, and sinister secrets. It’s a perfect outing for anyone fascinated by Edinburgh’s darker side—whether you’re a history buff, a horror fan, or someone who just enjoys a good story.

What makes this tour stand out are two key aspects: the detailed research and storytelling by a multi-award-winning novelist and historian, and the well-curated itinerary that mixes legendary tales with actual historical sites. That said, keep in mind that the tour involves moderate walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. If you’re after a lively, engaging look at Edinburgh’s haunted corners and wicked tales, this tour hits the mark.

Who would love this? It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling that’s both fun and educational, and for those who want a different perspective on Edinburgh’s streets. It’s also suitable for families or groups who appreciate a bit of dark humor woven into their history.

Key Points

• Well-researched stories crafted by a renowned novelist and historian.
• Two hours of engaging storytelling across key historic sites.
• Includes Greyfriars Kirkyard, known for its haunted reputation and legendary characters.
• Operated by an award-winning tour company since 1999, ensuring experience and reliability.
• Moderate walking involved, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Focus on both fictional monsters and real historical figures, offering a balanced perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour is a smart blend of storytelling, history, and local lore—delivered by professional storytellers who know how to keep things lively. From the start at Parliament Square, you’ll be introduced to Edinburgh’s dark reputation, setting the tone for what’s to come. The tour then takes you along the Royal Mile, where each stop is a chance to hear about some of the city’s most fascinating characters and chilling tales.

The highlight is undoubtedly the visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard, which has become legendary for its haunted reputation and the stories of people buried there—like the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist and the history of Deacon Brodie, a notorious figure who inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. At each location, our guides will weave stories that are often wickedly humorous, sometimes downright eerie, but always rooted in fact.

Starting Point: Parliament Square

The tour kicks off outside St Giles’ Cathedral, at a spot marked with a plaque and known locally as ‘The Tree of the Dead’. Here, our guide introduces Edinburgh’s reputation as a city that has seen its fair share of monsters and mysteries. The outdoor setting makes it easy to settle in and get ready for a walk through history and legend.

The Royal Mile

Over the course of about an hour, your guide takes you along this historic thoroughfare. Expect vibrant storytelling interwoven with tales of witches, body snatchers, and notorious criminals—like Deacon Brodie, whose double life as a respected citizen and burglar fascinates even today. The stories are lively, sometimes wicked, and always engaging. You’ll learn how Edinburgh’s past is filled with dark deeds and legendary figures, some real, some fictional.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

The tour’s climax is at Greyfriars Kirkyard, which has haunted reputations dating back centuries. The guide will explain the stories attached to the graves, from the Mackenzie Poltergeist to the crypts of famous Edinburgh residents. Expect to hear the spooky tales that have made this cemetery one of the city’s must-see haunted spots. The 40-minute exploration there provides a visceral sense of the city’s darker side, with plenty of stories to keep you talking afterward.

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End of Tour

The walk concludes back at Greyfriars Kirkyard, giving you a chance to linger or explore further on your own. Given the compact, walkable nature of the itinerary, you’ll have time to reflect on what you’ve learned and perhaps plan your next spooky adventure in Edinburgh.

The Value and Experience

This tour is priced to reflect its quality—it’s not just a casual stroll; it’s a curated experience that offers depth, humor, and insight. The guide’s storytelling style makes complex histories accessible and entertaining, perfect for those who enjoy engaging narratives rather than dry facts. Since the tour is operated by Black Hart Entertainment / City of the Dead, with a history of conducting award-winning walks since 1999, travelers can trust in its professionalism and experience.

The inclusion of multiple attractions and stories makes the two-hour duration feel substantial without feeling rushed. It’s a good length to keep younger travelers engaged, especially with the mix of spooky tales and historic anecdotes. If you’re traveling with children or adolescents, the mix of humor and ghost stories can be particularly appealing.

What About Price and Practicalities?

Considering that the tour covers several sites and involves professional guides, the price offers good value for those interested in Edinburgh’s darker stories. Keep in mind, food, drinks, and hotel transfers aren’t included, so plan accordingly. The meeting point outside St Giles’ Cathedral is central and easy to find, and the tour runs in English, with a flexible reservation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Experience You’ll Get

Expect to walk at a comfortable pace, with stops to listen and absorb the stories. The guides are knowledgeable and lively, often adding humor to keep things fun. Reviewers mention that this tour captures Edinburgh’s “sinister, wicked side” in a way that’s both fun and educational, with one noting that it’s “a perfect mix of history and horror.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This dark history walk appeals most to curious travelers who want a different angle on Edinburgh, beyond castles and museums. It’s ideal for those who enjoy storytelling, legends, and ghost stories that are rooted in real history. Families with older children who can handle a moderate amount of walking and some spooky tales will find it especially entertaining.

While it’s not a comprehensive history tour, it offers a unique perspective of Edinburgh’s haunted reputation, making it a memorable part of any visit. Those looking for a light, humorous, yet spooky experience with educational value will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their itinerary.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with the guided walking covering the Royal Mile and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside St Giles’ Cathedral, at ‘The Tree of the Dead’ plaque, and ends back at Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the stories involve dark themes and moderate walking, so it’s best for older children comfortable with spooky tales.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the professional guide, the stories, and visits to multiple historic sites along the route.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included; you are responsible for your own refreshments.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering good flexibility.

Is the tour language English?
Yes, it’s conducted in English by professional guides.

Final Thoughts

The Monsters of The Royal Mile – A Dark History Tour offers a lively, engaging way to experience Edinburgh’s spooky side. It’s well-designed, with a good balance of humor, history, and legend, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. If you’re intrigued by tales of witches, graveyard ghosts, and sinister characters, you’ll find this tour a fun and memorable part of your Edinburgh adventure.

For history lovers who enjoy storytelling with a twist or anyone curious about Edinburgh’s darker reputation, this tour provides an authentic glimpse into the city’s haunted, wicked corners. It’s especially valuable for those who prefer stories that are rooted in real events but delivered with a dash of theatrical flair. If you’re ready for some creepy tales and fascinating characters along the historic Royal Mile, this dark history walk is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: