Edinburgh: Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, you’ll find plenty of tours promising spooky stories and historic sights. Among these, the Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault offered by Enthral Experiences stands out for its captivating storytelling and immersive underground visit. With a stellar 4.8-star rating based on nearly 1,000 reviews, this tour promises an engaging way to explore the city’s darker side—without losing sight of its charm.

What we love about this experience is its combination of authentic storytelling delivered by guides who are both knowledgeable and fun. The way they bring the city’s mysterious history to life keeps participants engaged from start to finish. The visit to The Lost Close underground vaults adds a tangible sense of adventure, giving you a peek beneath Edinburgh’s streets into a hidden world that’s been cloaked in history and mystery.

One consideration is the 75-minute duration, which offers a fantastic snapshot but might leave history buffs wanting more if they’re eager to explore in greater depth. Still, this tour hits a sweet spot for those with limited time but a keen interest in Edinburgh’s witch trials, underground secrets, and local legends.

This experience is perfect for history lovers, family groups with kids, and curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and authentic local lore. If you’re looking for a lively, well-reviewed tour that captures the spirit of Edinburgh’s darker past, this is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Guides: Led by engaging character guides who excel at storytelling.
• Historical Focus: Explores the stories of Scottish witches and their unjust persecution.
• Underground Vault: Includes exclusive access to a 1742 vault in The Lost Close.
• Walking Tour: Covers Edinburgh’s atmospheric streets, wynds, and landmarks.
• Value for Money: For $24, you get a memorable, in-depth experience.
• Well-Reviewed: Nearly 1,000 positive reviews highlight its popularity and quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour kicks off outside Caffé Nero, across from the Mercat Cross, right near St. Giles’ Cathedral. This central location makes it easy to find, and meeting your “bewitching” guide here sets the tone for an atmospheric walk through the city’s historic core. The guides are professional, friendly, and often adopt characters or roles to add a theatrical flair, which enhances the storytelling.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town Streets

From the starting point, you’ll follow your guide through some of the most atmospheric parts of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Expect to wander cobbled streets, narrow wynds, and historic alleys, all of which echo with stories of witches, justice, and societal fears. Notably, stops include St. Giles’ Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure, and Lady Stair’s Close, a narrow passageway that transports you back centuries.

Many travelers comment on how well the guides weave tales of witch accusations, highlighting the injustices faced by those—mostly women—who were persecuted. As one reviewer puts it, the tour “brought the whole experience to life,” blending humor and somber moments effectively. The guide’s skill in navigating Edinburgh’s winding streets is often praised, with one reviewer mentioning they “felt the guide was informative, told great stories, and did an excellent job.”

The Witchcraft Stories

The core of this tour involves stories about those accused of witchcraft in Scotland. You’ll learn about the lives and fates of women and men who faced brutal trials, often based on fear, superstition, or societal scapegoating. Reviews repeatedly highlight the emotional impact of these stories, which are told with a tone of respectful remembrance, not sensationalism.

Several reviewers note that guides often include details about famous characters from popular culture, like Harry Potter and Outlander, adding an extra layer of connection for fans of Scottish lore. One visitor mentions, “I learned new stories from a fresh female perspective,” emphasizing the guide’s ability to shed light on overlooked aspects of this dark chapter.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Underground Vaults at The Lost Close

The tour’s highlight is the 15-minute visit to The Lost Close, an underground vault dating back to 1742. This hidden site, discovered after the Great Fire of 1824, offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s subterranean past. As one reviewer notes, “The vault was a nice touch,” and it provides a tangible link to history, making the stories more real.

Accessing this vault isn’t just about seeing an old space; it’s about feeling connected to the past. The atmosphere inside is spooky yet respectful, and the guide shares additional tales of the vault’s history and the mysteries it holds. This underground section is a unique feature that sets this tour apart from standard city walks.

Walking and Atmosphere

You’ll cover several key sites, such as Castlehill and Victoria Street, areas full of character and charm. The architecture and street layout contribute to the tour’s spooky ambiance, perfect for stories of witches and secret societies. The pace is comfortable, and the walk is manageable even for those with limited mobility, though it involves some stairs and uneven surfaces.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, which strikes a good balance between depth and brevity. Starting times vary, so it’s wise to check availability and book ahead. The tour runs rain or shine—so come prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Price-wise, at $24 per person, it offers excellent value—especially considering the underground vault visit and the engaging storytelling.

What’s Included and Not

Your ticket includes a professional character guide and access to The Lost Close underground vault. It does not include transportation or meals, but given the compact nature of the walk, you won’t need to worry about extensive travel arrangements. The small group size (typically around 10-20 people) fosters a personal experience, with guides able to tailor stories and answer questions.

Authenticity and Reception

The reviews overwhelmingly praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Many mention guides like Juniper, Agatha, Dorothy, and Angelina—not just for their storytelling but for the fun and engaging delivery that keeps everyone captivated. One reviewer notes, “Juniper was an amazing guide—funny, passionate, and full of knowledge,” which seems to be a common sentiment.

The stories themselves seem carefully curated to respect the victims while providing a compelling narrative. Comments like “You never look at the city the same way again” and “Learning about Edinburgh’s witch trials was both educational and moving” highlight the tour’s impact.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At just $24, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines history, storytelling, and underground exploration. It’s ideal for those interested in local legends, Scottish history, or ghostly tales. The guides’ ability to blend humor, respect, and intrigue makes it a memorable experience for individuals, families, or groups of friends.

While the duration isn’t exhaustive for history enthusiasts wanting every detail, it’s a perfect highlight reel—rich in stories, atmosphere, and a touch of mystery. The underground vault visit is a standout feature, giving the experience a tangible connection to Edinburgh’s hidden past.

For travelers who enjoy engaging stories, atmospheric streets, and a respectful look at some darker moments in Scottish history, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and leave you with plenty to think about long after the walk ends.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a fan of storytelling, enjoy spooky atmospheres, or want a deeper understanding of Edinburgh’s history beyond the usual landmarks, this tour is a great fit. Families with older children will appreciate the engaging tales, while history buffs will find enough detail to satisfy their curiosity. It’s also perfect for anyone interested in the social injustices faced by women accused of witchcraft or simply seeking an entertaining way to explore Edinburgh’s streets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews highlight that guides are engaging with children, making it a family-friendly option. However, due to some dark themes, very young children might find certain stories intense.

How long does the underground vault visit last?
The underground visit is approximately 15 minutes, providing a brief but impactful glimpse into Edinburgh’s subterranean past.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you should check availability and reserve your spot early, especially during peak seasons, as this tour is very popular.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, since the tour involves walking in outdoor streets rain or shine.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
The tour involves some stairs and uneven surfaces, so it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute travel adjustments.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The combination of authentic storytelling, atmospheric streets, and exclusive underground access makes it a memorable and unique experience in Edinburgh.

Embarking on this Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault offers a compelling mix of history, mystery, and fun. Whether you’re a history buff or just someone curious about Edinburgh’s darker stories, it’s a journey worth taking—especially when guided by seasoned storytellers who know how to make history come alive.

You can check availability for your dates here: