The Cadies & Witchery Tours: Edinburgh's Spooky History Unveiled
Discover Edinburgh’s dark past through thrilling, theatrical walking tours blending history, mystery, and spooky fun on Victoria Street.
Located at 84 West Bow on Victoria Street, The Cadies & Witchery Tours offer immersive walking experiences through Edinburgh’s dark and mysterious past. Known for blending historical facts with theatrical storytelling and lighthearted scares, these tours reveal the city’s eerie tales, haunted sites, and fascinating characters. Perfect for those intrigued by ghosts, murder mysteries, and Edinburgh’s unique cultural heritage, the tours run daily and combine fun with education in an atmospheric setting.
A brief summary to The Cadies & Witchery Tours
- 84 West Bow, Victoria Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2HH, GB
- +441312256745
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-6 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-6 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
- Friday 12 pm-8 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-8 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially for evening slots, as these popular tours often fill up quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces.
- Prepare for some jump scares and theatrical effects if you join the Witchery or Murder Mystery tours.
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as tours take place mostly outdoors.
- Arrive a little early to explore Victoria Street’s colorful shops and historic architecture before your tour.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city center to the Grassmarket area, then walk about 5 minutes uphill to 84 West Bow. Buses run every 10-15 minutes, fare approximately £1.80-£2.00.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Tram to Princes Street stop, then walk downhill for about 15 minutes through the Old Town to Victoria Street. The tram fare is around £6.50 for a single ticket.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh Waverley Station to 84 West Bow takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Suitable for travelers with luggage or limited mobility.
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Walking
From Edinburgh city center, walking to 84 West Bow takes around 15-20 minutes on cobbled and sometimes steep streets. Suitable for most fitness levels but wear sturdy footwear.
The Cadies & Witchery Tours location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Cadies & Witchery Tours
Exploring Edinburgh's Haunted Heritage
The Cadies & Witchery Tours invite you to step into the shadowy corners of Edinburgh’s history, where folklore, ghost stories, and grim realities intertwine. Based at 84 West Bow on the atmospheric Victoria Street, these tours navigate the city’s oldest streets and graveyards, unearthing tales of murder, mystery, and the supernatural. The guides, often embodying historical characters such as highwaymen, bring the stories vividly to life, combining detailed local knowledge with theatrical flair.A Unique Blend of History and Entertainment
Unlike traditional history tours, The Cadies & Witchery Tours offer a dynamic mix of storytelling and immersive experience. The guides use humor, suspense, and surprise elements—including well-timed jump scares and special effects like smoke machines—to engage visitors. This approach makes the tours accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience, balancing chilling narratives with lighthearted moments that keep the atmosphere lively and entertaining.Signature Tours and Experiences
The company offers several themed tours, including the popular Witchery Tour and the Graveyard Tour. Each explores different facets of Edinburgh’s dark past, from plague-era tragedies to notorious murders and ghostly legends. The tours often include hidden alleys, narrow staircases, and historic landmarks rarely noticed by casual visitors, providing a fresh perspective on the city’s cultural and architectural heritage.Atmosphere and Setting
Set in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the tours begin from a historic building on Victoria Street, a street famed for its colorful, curved facades and vibrant atmosphere. The surrounding area’s medieval architecture and cobbled lanes enhance the sense of stepping back in time. Evening tours, in particular, capitalize on the city’s natural gloom and shadows, heightening the spooky ambience and making the stories even more compelling.Community and Cultural Significance
The Cadies & Witchery Tours contribute to Edinburgh’s rich tradition of storytelling and theatrical performance. They celebrate local history while preserving and sharing lesser-known tales that reflect the city’s complex social and cultural evolution. By engaging visitors with interactive narratives, the tours foster appreciation for Edinburgh’s heritage beyond the usual tourist landmarks.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
Tours run daily with varying schedules, typically starting in the early afternoon and continuing into the evening. The company’s office at 84 West Bow serves as a welcoming hub for bookings and inquiries. The tours generally last between 1.5 to 2 hours, suitable for most ages and interests. Though the experience includes some startling moments, it is designed to be informative and entertaining rather than deeply frightening, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady Stair's Close
0.2 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
David Hume Statue
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.2 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant culture of Edinburgh's Parliament Square, a must-visit destination in Scotland's capital city.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of St Giles' Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Edinburgh.
Advocates Close
0.2 km
Explore the historic Advocates Close in Edinburgh, a charming alleyway rich in history and local culture, perfect for a leisurely stroll and discovery.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.2 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
National Museum of Scotland
0.3 km
Discover Scotland's rich heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, an engaging cultural hub showcasing the nation's history and identity.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.3 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
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.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
0.3 km
Discover stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at The Vennel Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot that showcases the beauty of Scotland's capital.
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.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.3 km
Discover the hidden history of Edinburgh at The Real Mary King's Close, a captivating underground adventure that reveals the city's fascinating past.
Unmissable attractions to see
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.0 km
Artisan cheese haven on Edinburgh’s historic Victoria Street, offering expertly matured farmhouse cheeses and personalized service for over 30 years.
Victoria St
0.1 km
Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
0.1 km
Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Milne's Court
0.1 km
Discover Milne's Court, Edinburgh’s pioneering open courtyard from 1692, nestled on the historic Royal Mile near the Castle.
House of Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and crafts at House of Scotland, a vibrant gift shop nestled on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Scottish Experience
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and magical Harry Potter memorabilia in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Lawnmarket.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Camera Obscura and five floors of mind-bending illusions with stunning rooftop views of the city.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage through immersive tours, tastings, and one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Jolly Judge
0.1 km
Discover the charm of The Jolly Judge, a cozy pub in Edinburgh offering local ales, traditional Scottish dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Central Library
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s historic Central Library offers free access to rich collections, quiet study spaces, and vibrant community programs in a grand, welcoming setting.
Gladstone's Land
0.1 km
Step into 17th-century Edinburgh at Gladstone's Land, a towering tenement rich with history, art, and stories from the Royal Mile.
Lawnmarket
0.1 km
Stroll the cobbled Lawnmarket, where Edinburgh’s Royal Mile meets centuries of linen traders, philosophers, and hidden closes in the shadow of the Castle.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.1 km
Explore authentic Scottish tartans, handwoven textiles, and bespoke kilts in Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile weaving mill.
61 Grassmarket
0.1 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 Witches Well
0.1 km
Explore The Witches Well in Edinburgh, a historical landmark steeped in folklore, offering a captivating glimpse into the city's dark past.
Essential places to dine
Maison Bleue
0.0 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.1 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Makars Mash Bar
0.2 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Beehive Inn
0.2 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
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.
The Devil's Advocate
0.3 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.3 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.0 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.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.1 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.1 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
The Court Curio Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Olde Edinburgh
0.1 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Heritage of Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
I Love Scotland
0.2 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Godiva
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.4 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Museum Context
0.4 km
Step into Edinburgh’s historic wizarding world with Museum Context, a magical Harry Potter shop brimming with collectibles and charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bow Bar
0.0 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
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Oz Bar
0.2 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
0.2 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 Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
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.
Dragonfly
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
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.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.5 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Whistlebinkies
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Captain's Bar
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Liquid Room
0.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
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 Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.7 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.
Club Tropicana
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Adult Friendly
