Free Ghost Tour Edinburgh
On the Free Ghost Tour of Edinburgh, uncover the chilling stories hidden along the Royal Mile, from its narrow, shadowy closes to the iconic Canongate Cemetery.
Don’t miss this journey through Edinburgh’s dark history, where ghosts, murderers, body snatchers, witches and even the devil himself accompany us through the Old Town’s streets. Following the Industrial Revolution, overcrowding and poor living conditions fueled beliefs in legends—some cruel and bloody. Mixed with layers of Celtic culture and folklore, these elements created a city that hid from the law and built its own shadowy universe.
This tour is not recommended for children under 5 due to the themes explored.
Parliament Square
We start beside St Giles’ Cathedral. Here we introduce the tour and explain why Edinburgh has always been shrouded in mystery: from its Celtic roots to the harsh living conditions in the walled city, marked by plague and crime.
Mercat Cross
Once a site of public executions and exemplary punishments. Discover how historical justice in Scotland fueled some of the city’s most chilling tales.
The Closes
Step into the historic alleyways of the Old Town, where legends of the 1824 fire, mysterious apparitions, and characters like Johnny “One Arm” still echo.
Tron Kirk
An old church and gathering place where the atmosphere changes. Learn about low-intensity paranormal phenomena and curious accounts that still spark questions today.
North Bridge
A bridge with a tragic history, surrounded by superstition since its construction. Associated with unsettling presences and a lake tied to the devil, it is a key point on this haunted Edinburgh walking tour.
Calton Cemetery
Walk among historic graves while exploring the intersection of death, memory, paranormal activity, and some of Edinburgh’s most chilling stories, where documented events intertwine with the inexplicable.
Calton Hill
The tour ends at Calton Hill, offering spectacular views of Edinburgh, while exploring Scotland’s dark history of witch hunts, marked by accusations, torture and executions. A reflective journey through superstition and historical violence.
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Travel
- Walking tour
- Guide
- Yes
- Language
- English
- Departure Point
- 190 High Street (Royal Mile)
- e-ticket
- Printed or mobile voucher accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (up to 24 hours before tour departure)
- Departure time
- 19:30
- Return Details
- 21:00
- What's Included
- Professional guide service in English.
- 1.5 hours tour.
- What's No Included
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Food and drinks
Teresa
Glen was a brilliant guide . we enjoyed his humour and his knowledge . He didn%u2019t rush us about and I would look forward to going with him again
Sam
I joined the Free Tour of the Ghosts & Mysteries of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh on 10 November 2025, and I have to say %u2013 it was absolutely fantastic thanks to our guide, Claudia. From the moment we met at the agreed meeting point on the Royal Mile, Claudia%u2019s passion for Edinburgh%u2019s dark legends and hidden history was evident. She had a great presence, and instantly created a friendly, engaging atmosphere for the group. As we walked the narrow closes and historic lanes, she wove in the city%u2019s chilling stories %u2014 witches, body%u2010snatchers, ghosts, murderers %u2014 in a way that felt immersive rather than just a recital. The route through the old town, with its shadows and atmosphere, really lent itself to the subject matter, and Claudia used that to full effect. What stood out most: %u2022 Storytelling: Claudia was a terrific storyteller %u2014 her delivery was animated and dramatic at just the right moments yet always clear and well%u2010paced. She brought the legends to life, and her timing of pauses and glances down the alleys added to the mood. %u2022 Knowledge: She clearly knew her topic inside out %u2014 local lore, historical context, architecture, even the lesser known anecdotes. Whenever someone asked a question she answered with enthusiasm and additional insight. %u2022 Atmosphere & engagement: The tour never felt rushed. Claudia encouraged questions, invited reflections, and made sure the whole group felt involved. The setting on the Royal Mile at dusk added the perfect ambience. %u2022 Value: This is a free tour (pay%u2010what%u2010you%u2010think) and it delivered far beyond expectations. For the price we paid, the experience was top class. In short: If you%u2019re in Edinburgh and want a tour that mixes history with spooky local flavour, do this tour and ask specifically for Claudia as your guide. She made what could have been a simple walking history into a memorable experience. Thank you Claudia %u2013 you gifted us a terrific evening and brought the ghosts and mysteries of the Royal Mile alive. Highly recommended.
Sandrine
Thank you Hali !
Anna
Our tour was perfect. Very interesting and funny!
Natasha
L'organizzazione del Tour Inverness-Urqhuat -LochNess è stata eccellente nonostante il lungo viaggio ma sul lago di LochNessm i aspettavo un panorama più selvaggio,la crociera non è nulla di eccezionale per il prezzo pagato, idem il castello doe sono solo rovine. Anche se la vista merita
