Edinburgh: Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

Discover Edinburgh’s Dark Side on the Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

If you’re looking for an evening that blends history, humor, and haunting tales, the Edinburgh Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour offers just that. For around $28 per person, you’ll spend 75 minutes cruising through the city’s most atmospheric sights on a beautifully restored vintage double-decker bus, painted in midnight black. Led by lively guides and actors, this tour is designed to entertain as much as it educates, making it a great choice for travelers wanting a spooky, fun experience without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert storytelling combined with theatrical performances keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging, not just scary. Second, the historic sights like Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, and Greyfriar’s Kirk are brought to life with tales of executions, murders, and hauntings that make history feel close enough to touch. On the flip side, the 70-minute duration means it’s quick and punchy—perfect for those with tight schedules or those who want a taste of Edinburgh’s darker stories without a full night commitment.

A potential consideration? The bus can get crowded, and late arrivals aren’t admitted, so arriving on time is crucial. Also, if you’re sensitive to jump scares or gruesome tales, this might not be suitable for the very young or faint-hearted. Still, if you’re an open-minded traveler craving a blend of comedy, history, and ghost stories, this tour will fit the bill perfectly.

This experience is especially suited for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a good laugh combined with a spooky twist. It also works well for families with older children or teenagers, as the stories can be both fun and mildly chilling.

Key Points

• Authentic vintage bus experience with atmospheric décor and lighting enhances the spooky vibe
• Lively, knowledgeable guides keep the stories engaging and humorous
• Primarily in English, with a focus on Edinburgh’s haunted sites and gruesome past
• Fast-paced 75-minute tour that covers major landmarks and dark tales of the city
• Good value for money considering the inclusion of live guides, scenic views, and entertaining storytelling
• Reservations are flexible with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour

When we think of Edinburgh, the first images that often come to mind are its castle, the Royal Mile, and the historic Old Town. But beneath this picturesque surface lurks a darker, sometimes gruesome past—perfect material for a ghostly tour. The Comedy Horror Ghost Bus offers a unique way to explore these stories, combining dark history with hilarious theatrics on a vintage bus that’s been transformed into a spooky stage.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Hear

The tour begins at 7-9 George IV Bridge, just outside the Edinburgh Central Library. Arriving on time is essential because latecomers aren’t admitted once the tour starts, a common theme in well-organized activities. Once onboard, the bus—painted in typical midnight black—becomes a moving storytelling stage. The bus itself is decorated with atmospheric lamps and window curtains, which help set a mysterious mood.

You’ll pass the iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, where stories of sieges and executions linger. The Grassmarket, historically a site of public hangings, is featured prominently as the guide relays tales of murders and hauntings. The Greyfriar’s Kirk and Holyrood Palace also serve as backdrops for stories of plague victims, witches, and ghostly apparitions.

One of the highlights is learning about the legendary Burke and Hare, infamous for their grisly murders in the early 19th century. Their story is woven into the tour with both horror and humorous elements, making it accessible and memorable. As the bus navigates through both the Old Town and New Town, the guides reveal stories of torture, executions, and supernatural happenings, all seasoned with dry humor and theatrical flair.

The Experience: From the Inside Out

The bus’s interior is designed to evoke a ghostly atmosphere, with atmospheric lighting, curtains, and thematic decor. The live guide, often described as enthusiastic and full of dark humor, takes center stage. We loved the way guides like Tommy Terror engaged with the audience, blending historical facts with campy storytelling and jokes. Several reviews praise their guides: “Tommy Terror was fantastic,” says William, emphasizing the movie-quality acting and entertaining narration.

Throughout the hour, you’ll experience a mix of scare tactics and comedy, which appeals to a broad audience. The stories are gruesome but delivered with a light touch, making it more fun than frightening. Some reviews note the special effects and atmospheric sounds as adding to the spooky fun. One reviewer mentions the “smoke towards the end” being a bit too much, but most found it added to the immersive experience.

Why We Think It’s a Great Value

At just $28, this tour offers more than just a ride; it’s an interactive theatrical experience with a focus on dark humor and local legends. The inclusion of live guides and actors enhances the authenticity and entertainment value, making it worth the price. Plus, the scenic route covering major historic sites means you get a visual tour of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric areas, with stories that make them all the more captivating.

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What’s the Downside?

While the bus is beautifully restored, it can get quite crowded, especially if booked last minute or during peak times. The 75-minute duration is perfect for a quick peek into Edinburgh’s ghostly past but may leave some wanting more detailed stories or backstage access. Also, the tales are quite gruesome, so families with very young children should consider this before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous history lovers, ghost story fans, and those seeking a fun, nighttime activity. It’s also great for families with older kids or teenagers, since the stories are spooky but not excessively frightening. If you enjoy dark humor and theatrical storytelling, this experience will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?

This Ghost Bus Tour provides a unique, entertaining look at Edinburgh’s haunted reputation with a humorous twist. It’s a well-paced, engaging experience that blends history, theatrics, and comedy in a way that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The vintage bus and atmospheric décor amplify the sense of stepping into a ghost story, while the guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling skills keep the atmosphere lively.

For those wanting an authentic, fun, and spooky evening that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for people curious about Edinburgh’s darker side but looking for a light-hearted, theatrical approach rather than a serious ghost-hunting expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The stories can be quite gruesome and include jump scares, so it’s best for older children or teenagers. Younger kids might find some content too intense or frightening.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it a good length for a quick but immersive experience.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7-9 George IV Bridge outside the Edinburgh Central Library and ends back at the same spot.

Are food and drinks allowed onboard?
No, food, drinks, large bags, and smoking are not permitted on the bus.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, all commentary and storytelling are in English.

Can I record videos during the tour?
Video recording is not allowed during the tour to respect the theatrical experience.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals cannot be admitted once the tour begins, so punctuality is important.

Is there a limit to the group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews mention crowded buses, so expect a full but lively group.

To sum it up, the Edinburgh Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour offers a lively, memorable way to explore the city’s haunted past. With a combination of dark tales, theatrical flair, and scenic routes, it’s a perfect choice for those seeking a light-hearted spooky adventure. Its affordable price point and engaging guides make it a worthwhile addition to your Edinburgh itinerary, especially if you enjoy stories that are as funny as they are eerie.

You can check availability for your dates here: