Join a local published historian around Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile and visit its Underground Vaults. Learn about some of Edinburgh’s fascinating history, literary heroes, infamous criminals and the battles that shaped the city into what is today.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Covid-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 1.5 hours
- Starting time 2:15 PM
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
Experience
Highlights
- Be led around Edinburgh's Old Town by a local published historian
- Gain exclusive access into Edinburgh's Underground Vaults
- Explore Edinburgh's long and fascinating past
- Visit some of the Old Town's hidden closes and historical sites
- Enjoy our professional, informative and engaging tour
Full description
The historical tour begins at the Old Police Box on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, where you will be met by a local historian and proceed straight into the Underground Vaults. Edinburgh's Underground is over 400 years old and is full of fascinating history, all of which the guide will share with you.
After visiting the Underground Vaults, your guide will take you all around Edinburgh's Royal Mile and Old Town, visiting some hidden closes and other spots of historical significance. Delve into parts of Edinburgh that you did not know existed, mostly off the tourist trail.
Hear that the first skyscrapers in the world were built in Edinburgh, discover the identity of the local criminal who became the inspiration for Jekyll and Hyde, learn where the phrase "Black Market" came from, where Ebeneezer Scrooge is buried – yes, really – and how Edinburgh University worked closely with the serial killers Burke and Hare. Edinburgh’s history is long and fascinating, made even more special when told by our enthusiastic, passionate and local guide.
Includes
- Expert guide
- Entry into Edinburgh's Underground Vaults
Covid-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Old Police Box, 9 Hunter Square, Royal Mile, EH1 1QS [Opposite a Starbucks & next to the Tron Kirk)
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
Know before you go
- Entry into the Underground involves walking down eight steps.
- Please note that the minimum age for this tour is 5 years old.
