Doomed, Dead and Buried Tour

Step beyond Edinburgh's postcard landmarks and into its darker history on an adults only ghost tour through hidden underground vaults, medieval closes, and a historic graveyard. Led by a Master Storyteller, this extended walking experience combines atmospheric locations with true stories of crime, tragedy, and reported hauntings.

Getting started

Meet your guide at the Mercat Tours departure point and check in before the tour begins. After a brief introduction, collect your TourTalk audio device and headset, then set off through Edinburgh's Old Town with your small group.

What to expect

Designed for visitors interested in Edinburgh's darker history, this 1 hour 45 minute experience takes you through some of the city's most atmospheric locations. You'll walk along narrow closes and historic streets, descend into the Blair Street Underground Vaults, and continue to Canongate Graveyard while hearing stories connected to the places around you. The focus is on real historical events, notorious local figures, and centuries of folklore linked to Edinburgh's past.

Features

• Exclusive access to Blair Street Underground Vaults: Descend beneath Edinburgh's streets into a network of stone chambers normally closed to most visitors. The dim lighting, enclosed spaces, and centuries old surroundings create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the city.

• Visit to Canongate Graveyard: Continue to one of Edinburgh's most historic burial grounds, where weathered headstones and elaborate monuments mark the resting places of notable residents. The graveyard provides the backdrop for stories of infamous characters, tragic deaths, and local legends.

• Adults only small group experience: With a maximum of 18 participants and an adults only format, the tour explores darker themes without moderation. The smaller group size also makes it easier to hear stories clearly and enjoy a more personal experience.

• Master Storyteller commentary with immersive audio: Hear Edinburgh's history brought to life through expert narration delivered via TourTalk audio devices. Carefully selected sound effects add atmosphere and help place each story within its historic setting.