City of the Dead Tours
Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults and graveyards with expert guides blending history, atmosphere, and dark storytelling.
City of the Dead Tours offers immersive guided experiences through Edinburgh's most haunted underground vaults and historic graveyards. Located at Bobby's Bothy on Candlemaker Row in the heart of the Old Town, these evening tours combine genuine historical narratives with atmospheric storytelling, exploring the Greyfriars Kirkyard, the infamous vaults beneath the city streets, and the Covenanters Prison. Expert guides deliver expertly crafted tales of plague victims, body snatchers, and paranormal phenomena while maintaining historical accuracy and dark humor.
A brief summary to City Of The Dead Tours
- Bobby's Bothy, 26 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ, GB
- +441312259044
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip; the vaults have uneven stone floors and can be slippery. The graveyard involves outdoor walking on potentially uneven terrain.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater even in warmer months—the underground vaults maintain cool temperatures year-round, and evening outdoor exploration can be chilly.
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early to locate Bobby's Bothy on Candlemaker Row and allow time for check-in. The meeting point can be tricky to find for first-time visitors.
- If you are claustrophobic or uncomfortable in confined dark spaces, inform the guide beforehand; they can suggest alternative routes or provide additional support through the vault sections.
- Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season (summer months and weekends); tours frequently reach capacity and walk-ups may not be accommodated.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport (Bus)
Multiple bus routes serve the Old Town area near Candlemaker Row. Services 23, 27, 41, 42, and 45 stop within 2–3 minutes' walk of Bobby's Bothy. Journey times from Edinburgh city center range from 5–15 minutes depending on starting point and traffic conditions. Single fares cost approximately £1.80–£2.00. Buses run frequently throughout the day and evening, with reduced service after 23:00.
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Walking from Edinburgh Waverley Station
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, the walk to Bobby's Bothy on Candlemaker Row takes approximately 10–12 minutes. Head up Waverley Steps or use the Waverley Bridge exit, then navigate through the Old Town streets toward the Royal Mile area. The route involves some steep inclines and uneven historic cobblestone streets. This is a straightforward walk for most visitors with reasonable fitness levels.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local firms) can deliver you directly to Candlemaker Row or nearby streets in the Old Town. Journey times from Edinburgh city center typically range from 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally cost £6–£12 from central locations. Evening availability is reliable, though peak tourist season may result in longer wait times.
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Parking and Walking
Street parking in the Old Town is extremely limited and subject to strict time restrictions. The nearest public car park is the Waverley Station car park, approximately 5–7 minutes' walk away, with charges around £2–£3 per hour. Alternatively, the Castle Terrace car park or the Multistory on Forrest Road offer parking with charges typically £1.50–£2.50 per hour. Most visitors find public transport or taxis more practical than driving.
City Of The Dead Tours location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
Discover more about City Of The Dead Tours
Edinburgh's Underground Secrets Revealed
City of the Dead Tours operates from Bobby's Bothy, a historic meeting point nestled on Candlemaker Row in Edinburgh's atmospheric Old Town. The tours venture into the city's most notorious underground spaces—the vaults that lie beneath the streets, remnants of 18th-century construction that once served as storage areas, workshops, and shelter for the city's poorest residents. These subterranean chambers have accumulated centuries of dark history, from plague burials to the activities of infamous grave robbers. The tours also explore Greyfriars Kirkyard, one of Scotland's most haunted cemeteries, where countless stories of tragedy, injustice, and unexplained phenomena have unfolded across generations.Masterful Storytelling Meets Historical Authenticity
What distinguishes City of the Dead Tours from other ghost tour operators is the balance between entertainment and genuine historical scholarship. The guides are trained to deliver compelling narratives rooted in documented events—the plague pits, the body-snatching trade that supplied Edinburgh's medical schools, the persecution of Covenanters, and the documented paranormal incidents that have been investigated and recorded. The storytelling employs theatrical elements and carefully timed reveals to create genuine atmospheric tension, yet the historical framework remains rigorous. Guides weave together grisly details, dark humor, and moments of genuine eeriness to create an experience that educates while it entertains.The Vaults: Darkness and Atmosphere
The underground vaults form the centerpiece of most tours. These narrow, arched chambers are genuinely dark—visitors descend into spaces where artificial light is minimal and the stone walls press close. The vaults' confined spaces, combined with their documented history of suffering and death, create an inherently unsettling environment. Tours spend significant time exploring these passages, allowing visitors to absorb the atmosphere while guides recount the lives and deaths of those who inhabited these spaces. The physical experience of moving through authentic 18th-century architecture adds tangible authenticity to the historical narratives.Greyfriars Kirkyard: Locked Gates and Restricted Access
The Double Dead Tour includes exclusive access to restricted areas of Greyfriars Kirkyard, including the locked Covenanters Prison section where political and religious prisoners were held in brutal conditions. This restricted access is a significant draw, as it allows visitors to explore areas normally closed to the general public. The graveyard itself contains elaborate monuments, mass graves, and the tomb of Adam Adamson, associated with the famous McKenzie Poltergeist phenomenon. Night-time exploration of these spaces, guided by knowledgeable storytellers, transforms the graveyard into a landscape of historical revelation and atmospheric intensity.Diverse Tour Options for Different Preferences
City of the Dead Tours offers multiple tour formats to suit different interests and comfort levels. The standard Haunted Graveyard Tour focuses primarily on Greyfriars Kirkyard and its associated stories. The Double Dead Tour combines both the vaults and the graveyard, providing a more comprehensive experience lasting approximately two hours. The Double Dead tour enforces an age restriction of 12 and above, creating a more adult-oriented atmosphere for those seeking a less family-oriented experience. Each tour operates in the evening, taking advantage of natural darkness to enhance the atmospheric quality of the experience.Professional Guides and Consistent Quality
The tour company employs guides who demonstrate genuine knowledge of Edinburgh's history, architectural details, and documented paranormal investigations. Guides are trained to manage group dynamics, ensure visitor safety in the confined underground spaces, and adapt their delivery based on group composition and individual comfort levels. The guides' ability to balance historical accuracy with theatrical presentation—incorporating humor, suspense, and moments of genuine eeriness—creates memorable experiences that appeal to both skeptics and believers in paranormal phenomena.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.0 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.1 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
0.1 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Barrie's Close
0.3 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
David Hume Statue
0.3 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Flodden Wall
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
Mercat Cross
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Lady Stair's House
0.3 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.3 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Edinburgh Underground
0.4 km
Discover the mysteries of Edinburgh Underground, where history and legend intertwine beneath the city's streets in a captivating journey.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.4 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
The Writers' Museum
0.4 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
0.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s legendary loyalty tale at Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a historic pub serving real ales and classic Scottish hospitality.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
0.0 km
Historic Edinburgh cemetery famed for Covenanters, Greyfriars Bobby, haunting tales, and Harry Potter inspirations.
National Museum of Scotland
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Ballie Ballerson
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at Ballie Ballerson, where cocktails and camaraderie come together in a whimsical pub setting.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.1 km
Discover the grave that inspired Lord Voldemort’s name in Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
The Three Sisters
0.2 km
Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
Central Library
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s historic Central Library offers free access to rich collections, quiet study spaces, and vibrant community programs in a grand, welcoming setting.
National Library of Scotland
0.2 km
Explore Scotland’s largest library on George IV Bridge, where priceless manuscripts, exhibitions, and a vibrant cultural heritage await.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover the grandeur of McEwan Hall, a historic auditorium in Edinburgh that hosts cultural events and celebrates the city's rich heritage.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Victoria St
0.2 km
Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
61 Grassmarket
0.2 km
Historic 61 Grassmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town blends centuries of market heritage, dramatic history, and vibrant culture beneath Edinburgh Castle’s watchful gaze.
The Cadies & Witchery Tours
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s dark past through thrilling, theatrical walking tours blending history, mystery, and spooky fun on Victoria Street.
Supreme Courts
0.3 km
Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Essential places to dine
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.1 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.1 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.3 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.3 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Beehive Inn
0.3 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Amber Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Söderberg The Meadows
0.4 km
Authentic Scandinavian bakery and café near Edinburgh University, famed for cardamom buns, sourdough breads, and a cozy fika atmosphere.
Makars Mash Bar
0.4 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Whiski Rooms
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.2 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Olde Edinburgh
0.3 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Heritage of Scotland
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
0.3 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Fringe Shop
0.4 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Galaxy
0.4 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.4 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.4 km
A compact Old Town shop blending kilts, tartans and practical Scottish gifts within a historic South Bridge streetscape.
Godiva
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
The Scotland Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Frankenstein
0.1 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.1 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bow Bar
0.2 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Captain's Bar
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Copper Still
0.4 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.4 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Dragonfly
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
56 North
0.5 km
Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.5 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The World's End
0.6 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.7 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Legends
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.4 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Club Tropicana
0.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Adrenaline-pumping
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Atmospheric Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Night Experience
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
