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

Edinburgh: Monsters of The Royal Mile – A Dark History Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s shadowy past. For just around 2 hours, your guide—whose storytelling is crafted by an acclaimed novelist and historian—will lead you from Parliament Square down the historic Royal Mile, finishing at Greyfriars Kirkyard. Expect fascinating tales of real-life monsters, legendary figures, and dark deeds that have left their mark on Edinburgh.

What we especially love about this tour is how it blends entertaining storytelling with well-researched history. The stories are vivid, often wickedly humorous, and bring Edinburgh’s darker side to life through the words of Jan-Andrew Henderson, a multi-award-winning author. The tour’s intimate size ensures you feel engaged without being overwhelmed. Another highlight is the visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard, a graveyard steeped in ghostly lore and the resting place of some of the city’s most intriguing characters.

One potential consideration is that the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so it might not suit those with mobility issues or those expecting a very leisurely pace. Also, since the tour is conducted in English, non-English speakers might miss some of the nuances unless they’re comfortable with the language.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, fans of the macabre, or anyone interested in Edinburgh’s haunted reputation and its infamous characters. If you enjoy stories that mix fact and legend with a dash of humor, you’ll find this experience uniquely rewarding.

Key Points

• Rich storytelling crafted by an award-winning author makes the history engaging and vivid.
• Diverse attractions including Parliament Square, the Royal Mile, and Greyfriars Kirkyard offer a comprehensive dark history tour.
• Authentic tales of monsters, witches, serial killers, and notorious figures bring Edinburgh’s past to life.
• Expert guides ensure an informative experience, blending wicked humor with fascinating facts.
• Two-hour duration makes it a manageable, focused exploration of Edinburgh’s sinister side.
• Ideal for those interested in dark history, ghost stories, and Edinburgh’s legendary characters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Dark Side of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

Starting Point: Parliament Square

Your journey begins outside St Giles’ Cathedral, at ‘The Tree of the Dead’ monument near the City of the Dead plaque. This spot not only sets the tone but also immediately immerses you in Edinburgh’s blend of history and the supernatural. Standing here, you’re surrounded by centuries of stories, ready to be uncovered. The location is accessible, and the meeting is straightforward, making it easy to find.

Walking the Royal Mile

Spanning roughly a mile, the Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s historic heart. The guided tour here lasts about an hour, during which your guide, often with a lively storytelling style, will introduce you to some of the city’s most sinister tales. Expect stories about body snatchers, witch trials, and murderous legends.

Many reviews praise how the guides skillfully weave history and legend, keeping the atmosphere both engaging and slightly eerie. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way stories of real monsters and legendary figures were presented with wicked humor, making the history accessible and fun.” The stories aren’t sanitized, but they are told with respect and wit, making it suitable for a broad audience.

Greyfriars Kirkyard: The Haunted Graveyard

The tour’s highlight is a 40-minute visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard, famous for its haunted reputation and connections to Edinburgh’s dark past. Here, you’ll hear about Deacon Brodie, the notorious locksmith and politician who was also a thief, and the Mackenzie poltergeist that allegedly haunts the grounds.

Visitors often find Greyfriars to be atmospheric and slightly spooky—perfect for those who love ghost stories. One reviewer said, “The way our guide described the spooky legends made the graveyard come alive, and I could almost see the spirits lurking behind the stones.” It’s a highlight for those interested in haunted tales and Edinburgh’s spiritual lore.

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Tour End: Back at Greyfriars Kirkyard

The walk concludes back at the cemetery, making it easy for you to continue exploring Edinburgh or return to your accommodation. Since the tour is about 2 hours long, it fits well into a day of sightseeing, especially if you’re combining it with other attractions.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price includes a professional guide and the storytelling experience curated by a renowned author and historian. You’ll visit multiple historical sites and be regaled with tales of Edinburgh’s most fascinating characters. The guide’s storytelling style and the well-researched stories provide excellent value for the price.

However, food, drinks, and hotel pickups are not included, so plan accordingly. We recommend bringing a water bottle and comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through historic streets.

Practical Details & Tips

• Meeting Point: Outside St Giles’ Cathedral, at ‘The Tree of the Dead’ with the City of the Dead plaque.
• Duration: 2 hours, with a guided walk of about an hour and a 40-minute stop at Greyfriars Kirkyard.
• Starting Times: Check availability, as times vary.
• Language: Conducted in English.
• Physical Activity: Moderate walking – good footwear is advised.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for your plans.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re intrigued by stories of monsters, witches, and infamous Edinburgh characters, this tour offers an authentic, well-crafted experience. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy dark humor combined with historical storytelling, and appreciate a guided walk that balances entertainment with education. Families, history buffs, and ghost-story enthusiasts will find this a memorable way to explore Edinburgh’s shadowy side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children with an interest in spooky stories and history should enjoy it, but it’s best suited for older kids due to the dark themes and walking involved.

How long is the walking part of the tour?
The tour involves a guided walk that covers the Royal Mile and a visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard. Expect about 1 hour of walking, with additional time spent listening to stories.

Are the guides experienced storytellers?
Yes, the stories are presented by professional storytellers, with the content researched by a multi-award-winning author and historian.

What if it rains?
Since the tour is outdoors, bring an umbrella or raincoat if the weather looks wet. The stories are still enjoyable regardless of rain.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves moderate walking, so mobility limitations could be a concern. Check with the provider for specific accessibility details.

Is this tour appropriate for those interested in factual history?
Yes, the stories are based on well-researched history and legends, blending facts with local folklore.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during busy seasons. Booking guarantees your spot, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before.

In the end, if you’re looking for a dark, entertaining, and authentic way to uncover Edinburgh’s shadowy past, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a good story, a touch of the macabre, and a deep dive into the city’s legendary characters—both real and imagined. The mix of humor, history, and haunting tales makes it a memorable experience worth fitting into your Edinburgh itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: