Aberdeen: Private Dark Side Walking Tour

Discover the Dark Side of Aberdeen with a Private Walking Tour

Imagine strolling through the historic streets of Aberdeen, but with a twist — this isn’t a typical sightseeing walk. For about $168 per group (up to six people), you’ll spend 1.5 hours with a local guide uncovering the city’s shadowy past. You’ll visit notable spots like the Tolbooth Museum and the gallows site, hearing tales of public executions, witches, and murderers from centuries gone by.

What we genuinely love about this tour is its intimate, private format — perfect for families, friends, or history buffs who want a tailored experience. The guide’s storytelling style makes the dark history come alive, especially when weaving in local legends and ghost stories like the ghost of Marion Hardie. Another highlight is the chance to see historic sites like the gallows and learn about Aberdeen’s darker moments that aren’t always covered in mainstream guides.

On the downside, since the tour only lasts 1.5 hours, it moves quickly. If you’re craving a deep dive into each event or site, you might find it a bit brisk. Also, the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to any locations, so if you’re interested in exploring sites further, you’ll need to budget for those separately.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, ghost story lovers, and anyone intrigued by Aberdeen’s hidden stories. If you’re comfortable walking around in all weather and enjoy authentic, local insights, this experience could be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group tour for up to 6 people ensures a tailored storytelling environment.
• Historical Depth: Focus on dark events like executions, witch trials, and murders, revealing Aberdeen’s lesser-known past.
• Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring stories to life with authentic local insights.
• Flexible Schedule: Check availability for start times that suit your plans.
• Short Duration: 1.5 hours makes it a quick but impactful journey into the city’s dark history.
• No Entrance Fees Included: Be prepared to pay separately for any sites you wish to explore further.

A Walk Through Aberdeen’s Shadowy Past

Walking tours often serve as the perfect way to connect with a city’s essence, and this Aberdeen Dark Side Tour is no exception. The tour begins outside the Tolbooth Museum, a historic building that once housed the city’s court and jail. It’s a fitting starting point to explore the darker episodes of Aberdeen’s past. Our guide, dressed in a bright orange jacket for easy spotting, leads us through narrow streets and ancient alleyways where stories of public hangings and executions still echo.

One of the most captivating stops is the site of the gallows, where public executions once drew crowds. The guide vividly describes the grim spectacle of body snatching, kidnappers, and witch trials, giving us a tangible sense of the harsh justice of bygone days. As we walk, stories of Marion Hardie’s ghost loom in the background—an eerie tale that keeps the history feeling alive and tangible.

A highlight for many is the discussion about Aberdeen’s witch trials, which reveal a darker chapter of local superstition and fear. Our guide explains how accused witches faced brutal punishments, including public beheadings, and how such events shaped the town’s history. The tour also touches on Saltoun Arms killings and other dark episodes, illustrating how crime and punishment intertwined in Aberdeen’s past.

The final stop at The Snuggery Bar provides a cozy spot to reflect on what we’ve learned. The tour’s short duration means we get a concentrated dose of spooky stories and historical facts, leaving us intrigued and slightly spooked but wanting more.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The tour is designed to be both educational and entertaining, with a focus on dark history, folklore, and local legends. You can expect to walk through parts of Aberdeen that are often overlooked, listening to stories that reveal a different side of the city. The guide’s passion for history shines through, making even the most gruesome tales engaging.

Since the tour involves walking, comfortable shoes are a must, and weather can be unpredictable. The guide’s flexibility in start times and meeting points makes it convenient, especially if you’re already exploring the city.

While the tour doesn’t include paid admission to sites, it’s perfectly suited to those who enjoy storytelling and discovering “hidden” stories rather than just looking at monuments. It’s a good fit for travelers who prefer a personalized, intimate experience over large group tours.

In-Depth: The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the Tolbooth Museum, you immediately get a sense of the city’s historic justice system. The museum itself, housed in an old building, is a fitting intro, even if you don’t go inside. From there, the guide takes you on a route that includes sightseeing stops at key locations linked to Aberdeen’s dark history.

The stops are not just photo ops—they’re portals into stories of public executions, witch hunts, and notorious crimes. For instance, the story of body snatching isn’t just gruesome but contextualized within the wider practice of grave robbing for medical schools. When the guide talks about the killings at the Saltoun Arms, you learn how local violence left scars in the community.

Along With the macabre tales, we loved the way the guide incorporated local folklore, such as the ghost of Marion Hardie, adding a supernatural layer to the historical narrative. These stories are rooted in the city’s past but continue to haunt its streets today. The site visits, although short, are carefully chosen to maximize storytelling impact.

The tour concludes at The Snuggery Bar, where you can ask questions and reflect. It’s a cozy way to wrap up, especially after hearing some chilling stories.

More Great Tours Nearby

The True Value of the Tour

When considering the $168 price tag, remember that you’re paying for an exclusive, private experience with a knowledgeable local guide. The intimate setting allows for personalized stories and questions, enriching your understanding of Aberdeen’s lesser-known history.

Compared to large group tours, this private option offers more flexibility and detail. It’s particularly valuable if you’re interested in dark history, folklore, and local legends. Since the tour doesn’t include entrance fees, you can choose to explore certain sites more fully on your own, tailoring your experience.

Most reviews highlight the guide’s passion and storytelling ability, making the experience not just educational but genuinely engaging. The short duration makes it a perfect addition to a busy itinerary, especially if you’re short on time but craving a meaningful glimpse into the city’s shadowed past.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the darker chapters of Aberdeen’s past. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling, authentic local insights, and a personal touch. If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers who can handle a bit of macabre history, it can be a memorable family experience.

If you prefer a leisurely, in-depth exploration, or want to visit specific sites, you might find the quick pace a bit brisk. But if your goal is to get a taste of Aberdeen’s darker stories in a lively, engaging way, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not really. The tour isn’t recommended for children under 12 due to the dark and sometimes gruesome content.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a compact yet fascinating experience.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, the tour price doesn’t include paid admissions to any locations, so you should budget separately if you want to visit specific sites.

What if it rains?
Aberdeen’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress appropriately and be prepared for rain or shine, as the tour is outdoors.

Can I join this tour at any time?
Check availability for start times, as the tour offers flexible scheduling to fit your plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchairs, making it inclusive for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Private Dark Side Walking Tour in Aberdeen offers a compelling peek into a city’s shadowy history, brought to life by a knowledgeable local guide. It’s a unique way to explore beyond the usual sights, uncovering stories of witch trials, executions, murders, and local folklore that have shaped Aberdeen’s character.

The tour’s intimate setting and storytelling focus make it a memorable experience for those interested in the darker, more mysterious side of history. While it’s not a comprehensive deep dive into each event, it’s an engaging snapshot that leaves visitors both intrigued and slightly spooked.

If you’re looking for an authentic, personalized experience that combines history, legend, and a hint of the supernatural — and you’re comfortable walking outdoors in all weather — this tour is a well-spent 1.5 hours. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to see a different, more shadowy side of Aberdeen.

Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost story enthusiast, or simply after a fun and memorable story session, this tour offers both entertainment and insight — a perfect addition to your Scottish adventures.

Remember: While it’s a quick tour, the stories and atmosphere stick with you long after. It’s a little spooky, a little educational, and a lot of fun. Just be prepared for some chilling tales and a walk through history’s darker corners.

You can check availability for your dates here: