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Offered languages
- English
As daylight fades, skip the late-night ghost crowds and join former history professor Sami for an atmospheric evening walk beyond the cheap jump-scares.
Meeting in the shadows of Makars' Court, we follow the Royal Mile into lesser-seen closes to uncover Edinburgh’s darker social history. Told in our signature "walk with a friend" style - personal, flexible, and completely unscripted - Sami brings the past to life with authentic context and deep local expertise, pointing out hidden clues in the historic stonework that most people pass straight by in the daylight.
Because this tour explores grim topics like medieval torture, executions, and murders, it is best suited for adults and teens (13+). We focus heavily on genuine connection and immersive atmosphere rather than gratuitous gore.
Please note: these tales are a bit too dark for the ears of our young Golden Retriever tour guides, Walter and Arthur, so they won’t be joining us on Twilight departures.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The meeting point is located just off the Royal Mile in Makars' Court- next to the Writers' Museum. Look for your tour guide, Sami, who will be holding a light green umbrella with pictures of Golden Retrievers on it.
Itinerary
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Writers' Museum (Pass by)
Your tour guide, Sami, will meet you in Makars' Court next to the Writers' Museum. The tour begins by discussing some Scottish literary legends.
Admission ticket free -
Gladstone's Land (Pass by)
Along your walking tour you will pass by the historic Gladstone's Land.
Admission ticket free -
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions (Pass by)
Along your walking tour, you will pass by Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Admission ticket free -
Edinburgh Castle (Pass by)
We stop for a bit near Edinburgh Castle where you hear stories of sieges and battles, kings and queens, as well as some mysteries.
Admission ticket free -
The Scotch Whisky Experience (Pass by)
Along your walking tour we pass the Scotch Whisky Experience.
Admission ticket free -
Victoria Street (Pass by)
We walk along the picturesque Victoria Street.
Admission ticket free -
Grassmarket (Pass by)
We stop and talk about historic locals that once experienced the darker side of the Grassmarket.
Admission ticket free -
Greyfriars (Pass by)
We stop in the iconic Greyfriars Kirkyard where we discuss the true story of Greyfriars Bobby. We also delve into tales of the darker side of the Kirkyard.
Admission ticket free -
National Museum of Scotland (Pass by)
We pass by the renowned National Museum of Scotland.
Admission ticket free -
National Library of Scotland (Pass by)
We walk by the distinguished National Library of Scotland.
Admission ticket free -
St Giles' Cathedral (Pass by)
At St Giles’ Cathedral, one of the Royal Mile’s most iconic landmarks, you’ll hear fascinating tales of saints and sinners, power and punishment, and the strange ways reputations are made (and unmade) in Edinburgh.
Admission ticket free -
The Real Mary King's Close (Pass by)
Hear about some of Edinburgh's dark hidden history.
Admission ticket free -
Tron Kirk Market (Pass by)
We discus some of the intriguing history connected to Tron Kirk.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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