City of the Dead: The Double Dead Tour

Discover Edinburgh’s Dark Side with the City of the Dead: The Double Dead Tour

If you’re after a unique way to experience Edinburgh after dark, this tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s most haunted sites — for just under $32. Led by engaging guides like Nat, Grant, or Ian, you’ll spend nearly two hours exploring the South Bridge Vaults and the Covenanters Prison in Greyfriars Graveyard. These are not your typical sightseeing stops; they’re immersive, atmospheric, and filled with stories that blend history, folklore, and a dash of the supernatural.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history with storytelling — the guides don’t just recite facts, they bring the stories alive, often with humor that keeps it engaging even for those who aren’t naturally inclined towards ghost stories. Plus, the exclusive access to the Covenanters Prison means you’re getting a behind-the-scenes look at some of Edinburgh’s most haunted and secretive corners.

A potential consideration is the paced walking involved, which might challenge older or less mobile travelers, especially if they’re sensitive to dark, confined spaces. The tour is mainly in English and suitable for ages 12 and up, making it a good choice for families with older children or anyone interested in a spooky yet educational adventure.

This tour suits curious travelers who love history but want a spooky twist, those interested in paranormal stories, or anyone looking for a memorable evening in Edinburgh. It’s also perfect for visitors who appreciate guides who combine humor with expert knowledge for an entertaining experience.

Key Points

• Authentic haunted sites: Visit the South Bridge Vaults and Greyfriars Covenanters Prison — two of the city’s most notorious spooky locations.
• Expert guides: Guides like Nat, Grant, or Ian deliver stories with humor and insight, making historical and paranormal details accessible and lively.
• Accessible central starting point: The tour begins at St Giles’ Cathedral, a convenient spot in the heart of Edinburgh.
• Value for money: At around $31.57 per person, the tour includes exclusive access to the Covenanters Prison, making it a high-value option for those interested in Edinburgh’s darker past.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 5 travelers, you’ll get a more personal, engaging experience, plus plenty of time for questions.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance help you plan without stress.

Exploring the Dark Side of Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s reputation as a haunted city is well-deserved, and this tour captures that spirit perfectly. Starting in the central location of St Giles’ Cathedral, the walk takes you through some of the city’s most atmospheric spots, with a focus on two of the most haunted locations: the South Bridge Vaults and the Covenanters Prison. The vaults are an underground maze where the original wooden supports and damp stone walls set a genuinely eerie scene. You’ll learn about the dark history that haunts this subterranean network, including tales of tortured souls and strange noises that have spooked visitors for centuries.

The Covenanters Prison inside Greyfriars Graveyard offers a different kind of ghostly experience. It’s a small, historic prison cell, restricted in size and often shrouded in an air of solemnity mixed with ghost stories. Many reviews highlight the exclusive access as a significant highlight — something you won’t get if you explore Greyfriars alone. The stories shared here often intertwine religious conflicts, persecution, and modern paranormal reports, giving you a layered understanding of local history and ghost lore.

The Guide and the Atmosphere

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills. For instance, one reviewer mentioned how their host, Ben, combined humor with chilling tales, making the experience memorable. Others appreciated the witty banter and the way guides answer questions, making the tour engaging for all ages. The small group size (maximum 5 travelers) means you’re not just a face in the crowd — you get personalized attention and the chance to ask about details that pique your curiosity.

The timing of the tour, starting at 8:00 pm, enhances the atmosphere. Visiting these historic sites after dark amplifies the spooky vibe, and the cooler evening temps add to the sense of mystery. Expect a fair amount of walking between sites, often at a brisk pace, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price ($31.57) includes the local, expert guide and the admission tickets to the vaults and the Covenanters Prison. There’s no transportation included, so you’ll want to arrive at the meeting point on foot or via public transit. The tour ends near Greyfriars Kirkyard, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward.

Children aged 12 and above are welcome, but note that the tour involves some confined spaces and dark environments, so it may not be suitable for very young kids or those with mobility challenges. As reviews note, this is a walking tour with some areas that require a bit of stamina and comfort with potentially spooky or unsettling atmospheres.

The Experience in Detail

Let’s walk through what you can expect from each major part of the tour:

Starting Point: St Giles’ Cathedral

The tour begins at one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks. While the interior isn’t part of the tour, the location’s centrality makes it a natural meeting spot. Guides gather everyone here, setting the tone for an evening of storytelling.

South Bridge Vaults

Descending into the vaults, you’ll immediately notice the damp, cold environment — a perfect setting for ghost stories. The vaults are a labyrinth of underground chambers, originally used for storage and businesses but later turned into dwellings and workshops, often with tragic histories. The stories told by guides like Nat mix historical facts with spooky tales of spectral sightings and unexplained noises. Many reviews highlight how atmospheric and creepy the vaults are, with one reviewer noting how the stories are brought to life and how the setting makes your hair stand on end.

Greyfriars Covenanters Prison

This tiny cell, accessed only on this tour, symbolizes religious persecution in 17th-century Scotland. The guide shares stories of prisoners, executions, and ghostly encounters reported by visitors and staff. Several reviews specify how exclusive access to this site makes the experience special, and how the stories of religious strife resonate even today. The atmosphere here is quieter, more introspective, but still tinged with the ghostly tales that make Edinburgh famous for its haunted reputation.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of history and ghost stories narrated by guides who are both knowledgeable and engaging. Reviewers consistently mention how the guides’ storytelling skills elevate the experience beyond a simple walk. The insight into paranormal occurrences adds another layer, making it appealing for those intrigued by the supernatural.

At around $31.57, this experience offers great value, considering the exclusive site access and personalized guide interaction. It’s far more than just a walk; it’s an immersive experience that provides a window into Edinburgh’s darker past. The small group size helps foster a more intimate atmosphere, which reviewers say enhances the overall enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs interested in Edinburgh’s darker past, ghost story enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun, atmospheric evening. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guides who can blend humor with serious storytelling, creating a lively but respectful experience. Families with teenagers or older children will likely enjoy the mix of spooky tales and historical insights, though it might not be suitable for very young kids or those sensitive to dark spaces.

The Sum Up

The City of the Dead: The Double Dead Tour offers a well-balanced mix of spooky storytelling, historical insight, and exclusive access to some of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites. It’s a walk that’s as entertaining as it is educational, with guides who know how to keep the atmosphere lively and engaging. For a price that’s reasonable given the depth of experience, it’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Edinburgh after dark.

If you enjoy history, ghost stories, and atmospheric adventures, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s particularly suited for those who want an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide, and who aren’t fazed by dark, confined spaces or ghostly tales. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a small group, or a family with older children, you’ll find this tour offers a memorable evening, blending history with a touch of the supernatural.

FAQ

Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation to and from the starting point is not included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to St Giles’ Cathedral.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 12 years old to participate. Keep in mind that some areas are dark and confined, which may not be ideal for very young kids or those sensitive to spooky environments.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at St Giles’ Cathedral and concludes near Greyfriars Kirkyard, allowing easy access to continue exploring the city afterward.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes admission to the vaults and Covenanters Prison, plus the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking and in layers, as underground vaults and old graveyards can be cold and damp.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, giving flexibility to travelers with changing plans.

In short, this tour provides a captivating blend of history, haunting stories, and exclusive site visits, all led by guides who make the experience lively and memorable. For anyone curious about Edinburgh’s darker stories and looking for an evening that combines education with a thrill, it’s a perfect choice.