City of the Dead Tours
Embark on a chilling journey through Edinburgh's darkest history with City of the Dead Tours. These award-winning walks delve into the city's most haunted locations, including the legendary Underground City and the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist's prison. Led by expert storytellers, they combine historical facts with spine-tingling tales for an unforgettable, terrifying experience.
What to Expect
Exclusive access to world-renowned haunted locations.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 2 hours per tour
Ages
No under 12s, including babies and toddlers. Not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart conditions.
Neighborhood
Old Town
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Black Hart Entertainment
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Adults and older teens interested in history, ghost stories, and the paranormal.
Vibe
Spooky, historical, thrilling, and engaging.
Energy Level
Moderate to high, involving walking and standing for extended periods.
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Photos allowed, but filming is prohibited.
Weather Sensitivity
Low, as tours are primarily indoors or in covered historical areas, but outdoor walking is involved.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Accessibility: Not recommended for anyone with difficulty walking, as tours traverse dark environments and rough ground. Service dogs may be accommodated with advance notice for private tours.
- Pets: No pets allowed, including service animals, in public vaults and night tours due to the environment.
Tips & Advice
- Book in advance, especially for popular tours or during peak seasons, as tours can reach capacity.
- Arrive at the 'Tree of the Dead' departure point a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start to your tour.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be traversing dark and potentially uneven historical grounds.
- While photos are allowed, filming is not permitted to respect privacy and avoid spoiling the experience for others.
- If booking through a third party like Viator or GetYourGuide, direct any refund or change requests to them.
Special Events & Promotions
- Hallowe'en Tours 2026
- 2 for 1 Tuesdays!
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Dress in layers as the weather in Edinburgh can change quickly, and the underground locations may be cooler.
Can I bring my pet?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tours, even service animals, due to the dark, claustrophobic, and potentially distressing environment of the vaults and graveyards.
What is the scariest tour?
Each guide offers a unique experience, but the graveyard tours are often cited for their creepy reputation. The Double Dead Tour combines elements from multiple tours for a comprehensive experience.
What if I booked through a third party?
If you booked through a third-party provider such as Viator or GetYourGuide, you will need to contact them directly for any booking changes, refunds, or inquiries.
Can I pay in person?
While most bookings are done online, you can pay the guide in person with cash or card. However, it is advisable to book in advance via email or phone to reserve your spot.
More Halloween Events Near Edinburgh
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.