Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 20 travelers
Overview
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
Guided walking commentary
What to expect
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.
Gladstone's Land
Pass by
Along your walking tour you will pass by the historic Gladstone's Land.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Pass by
Along your walking tour, you will pass by Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
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.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Pass by
Along your walking tour we pass the Scotch Whisky Experience.
Victoria Street
Pass by
We walk along the picturesque Victoria Street.
Grassmarket
Pass by
We stop and talk about historic locals that once experienced the darker side of the Grassmarket.
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.
National Museum of Scotland
Pass by
We pass by the renowned National Museum of Scotland.
National Library of Scotland
Pass by
We walk by the distinguished National Library of Scotland.
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.
The Real Mary King's Close
Pass by
Hear about some of Edinburgh's dark hidden history.
Tron Kirk Market
Pass by
We discus some of the intriguing history connected to Tron Kirk.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
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.
End point
Additional information
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
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
