Aberdeen: Private Dark Side Walking Tour

Exploring Aberdeen isn’t just about its stunning granite architecture or its bustling harbor—there’s a shadowy side to this city that few visitors get to see. The Private Dark Side Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Aberdeen’s more sinister history, from public executions to witch trials, all narrated by a local expert. This experience is perfect for those who enjoy stories of the macabre, historical intrigue, and uncovering secrets hidden behind the city’s modern façade.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach—it’s a private experience for up to six people, which means you get an intimate, tailored storytelling session. The downside? Since it’s only 1.5 hours long, it’s a quick tour, so if you’re a history buff craving deep dives, you might wish for more time. Still, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a compact, engaging insight into Aberdeen’s darker moments. If you’re curious about the city’s shadowy past and enjoy stories that make your skin crawl, this tour is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group up to 6 people, offering a more intimate and flexible tour.
• Rich, Dark Stories: Learn about murders, witch trials, executions, and local ghost legends.
• Expert Local Guide: Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, adding depth to the storytelling.
• Convenient Timing: Flexible start times and meeting points make planning easy.
• Cost-Effective for Small Groups: At $168 for up to 6, it offers good value for a private tour.
• Ideal for History and Spooky Enthusiasts: Perfect for those wanting an eerie, authentic look at Aberdeen’s past.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers 1.5 hours of guided storytelling, led by a friendly local guide dressed in a bright orange jacket for easy spotting outside the initial meeting point at the Tolbooth Museum. It’s a private experience, so you won’t be stuck in a large group, allowing for a more personal, engaging conversation. The tour price is $168 per group of up to six, so it’s a smart choice for small groups or families who want an exclusive experience.

What’s not included are additional site admissions, which means you won’t pay extra for entering any specific attractions unless specified elsewhere. This keeps things simple but also means you’ll only be exploring the city from the outside or hearing stories without going inside buildings.

Meeting Point and Duration

The meeting spot is straightforward—your guide will be waiting outside the Tolbooth Museum, a historic building itself. Starting times are flexible, giving you flexibility when planning your day. The tour ends back at the meeting point, making logistics hassle-free.

A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Tour

Starting at the Tolbooth Museum

Your journey begins outside this historic site, which sets a perfect tone. The Tolbooth was historically a center of justice and punishment, tying neatly into the dark themes of the tour. From here, your guide will kick off storytelling, weaving tales of Aberdeen’s grim past.

Stops Along the Way

Over the next 1.5 hours, you’ll walk through various parts of the city, with stops that reveal stories of public executions, witch trials, and the gallows, which historically saw many who were accused of witchcraft or crimes meet their end. The stories are often associated with real locations like crossroads and historic sites, which add a tangible sense of place.

Ghost of Marion Hardie and Other Legends

One highlight noted by previous guests is learning about the ghost of Marion Hardie, a figure from local ghost stories. These legends contribute to the spooky atmosphere and are presented with genuine enthusiasm by your guide, making the stories feel alive and real.

Uncovering the Darker Side of Aberdeen’s Past

From body snatching to notorious killings at the Saltoun Arms, the stories shared are both shocking and fascinating. The guide’s storytelling brings each event vividly to life, with insights that go beyond just listing facts—they explore the societal context, superstitions, and the brutal justice of bygone eras.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Approachable

Reviews frequently mention Kirsty, a guide who is passionate about the city’s history and superstitions. One reviewer praised her as a “wonderful tour guide,” who provided intriguing insights into old crimes, punishment, and folklore. Her passion for local legends and her ability to weave detailed, engaging stories make the experience memorable.

What Visitors Love Most

Guests appreciate the balance of humor and seriousness in the stories, making the dark tales easier to digest. The personalized nature of the tour allows for questions and deeper discussion, which many find enriching. Also, the flexible start times and private setting make it easy to fit into travel schedules.

Potential Drawbacks

Given its short duration, some might find the tour doesn’t go deeply into every story. It’s a quick overview rather than an exhaustive history lesson. Also, since no entrance fees are included, if you’re interested in exploring specific sites afterward, additional costs might be involved.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those curious about Aberdeen’s darker past. It’s also well-suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with a local guide. If you prefer immersive, storytelling-focused tours that do not involve lengthy commitments or large groups, this would suit you perfectly.

For the price of $168, this tour offers exceptional value for a private experience. Private groups mean you get undivided attention, and the personal stories make it feel like a tailored history lesson from a friend rather than a scripted guide. While it doesn’t include entry to any sites, the stories are vivid and well-researched, making the walk worthwhile even without additional attractions.

The 1.5-hour duration might seem brief, but it’s enough to leave you with a genuine sense of Aberdeen’s darker history and plenty of material to ponder afterward. It’s especially valuable for those who enjoy storytelling and local legends, as Kirsty’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through.

If you’re looking for a unique, engaging way to explore Aberdeen, this tour offers a compelling blend of history, folklore, and ghost stories told by a passionate local guide. It’s an ideal activity for small groups wanting a personalized experience that brings the city’s shadowy past into focus.

Travelers who appreciate authentic stories, historical context, and a touch of the spooky will find this tour rewarding. While it’s not an exhaustive history lesson, it provides enough intrigue and insight to make your visit memorable. Plus, the private setting means you can ask questions and delve deeper into stories that pique your interest.

For those who want a concentrated dose of Aberdeen’s darker side, this tour is a value-packed, entertaining option that hits just the right notes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 12 years due to the nature of the content, which includes stories of executions, murders, and witch trials.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a compact yet engaging experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private 1.5-hour guided tour led by a local expert guide. No additional admissions are included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Tolbooth Museum and ends back at the same meeting point, offering easy logistics.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, the tour offers flexible start times, but availability should be checked in advance.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for more visitors to join.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking involved, and be prepared for unpredictable weather in Aberdeen.