Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour

Exploring Edinburgh’s haunted streets has never been more entertaining and educational than on the Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour. Led by the charming and comedic deceased Alexander Clapperton, this 1.5-hour adventure takes you through the atmospheric closes and courtyards of the Old Town, revealing tales of witchcraft, executions, invasions, and plague. Unlike somber ghost walks, this experience balances spooky stories with humor, making it perfect for families or anyone interested in Edinburgh’s darker past without being overwhelmed by gore.

One thing we particularly love is the blend of storytelling and comedic timing—the guides don’t just lecture; they entertain, making history engaging for teenagers and adults alike. The inclusion of a humorous character like Sir Clapperton adds a unique twist you won’t find on more traditional ghost tours. However, a potential consideration is that the tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and some stairs, which might be less accessible for some visitors, especially during rainy weather.

This tour suits those who love a good story with a side of history, enjoy a light-hearted atmosphere, and appreciate value for a well-structured, 1.5-hour experience. It’s also a fantastic option for families seeking an interactive way to explore Edinburgh’s mysterious side without the overly dark or intense content.

Key Points

• Engaging Guide: Alexander Clapperton, a humorous and knowledgeable character, makes history come alive.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a good balance of fun, spooky tales, and laughter.
• Great Value: At $22, it offers a memorable experience packed with stories, jokes, and a free book for added insight.
• Accessible Highlights: The tour explores key historic sites in Edinburgh’s Old Town, making excellent use of atmospheric closes and courtyards.
• Weather Resilience: The tour runs rain or shine, so appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended.
• Limited Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible in August and involves stairs, so check beforehand if mobility is a concern.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour

The Itinerary and Its Appeal

The tour begins outside The Witchery by the Castle, a picturesque spot near Edinburgh Castle that sets the tone for a spooky adventure. From there, you’ll walk through the historic Royal Mile, which is as atmospheric as it is bustling. The route takes you through some of Edinburgh’s most evocative courtyards and closes, each with its own story and ghostly legend.

One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Mr. Clapperton, kept everyone engaged with his witty humor and impressive knowledge, which suggests that the stories are delivered in an accessible, lively way. He introduces interesting characters pulled from Edinburgh’s past, adding a theatrical element that enhances the experience. The route ultimately ends at Lawnmarket, giving you the flexibility to explore further or continue your evening in this historic district.

What Makes the Tour Special

What sets this tour apart is the character of the guide—a deceased cemetery director with a penchant for storytelling and comedy. This fictional persona, “Sir Clapperton,” is brilliantly brought to life by the tour guides, whose reviews highlight their knowledge and humor. As one reviewer said, “Sir Clapperton was absolutely hilarious,” and that humor makes the darker stories more palatable and memorable.

Another reviewer pointed out that the tour is “very informative and funny,” emphasizing how well the guides strike a balance between education and entertainment. The anecdotes include tales of witchcraft, tortures, plague, and invasions—each delivered with enough drama to intrigue but not overwhelm.

The Atmosphere and Setting

Walking through Edinburgh’s medieval closes and courtyards at dusk or after dark enhances the eerie vibe. These narrow alleys, with their cobblestones and ancient stone walls, visually evoke the city’s darker history. The atmospheric surroundings make the stories more immersive, especially when combined with the guides’ theatrical dramatizations.

Reviewers note that the tour feels “charming and delightful,” with a sense of discovery at every turn. The mix of history and humor makes it enjoyable for both history buffs and those just seeking a fun night out.

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Price and Value

At $22 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. For this price, you not only get a lively, 1.5-hour walk with a skilled guide but also a free book that contains more stories and details, adding value beyond the tour itself. Several reviews praised the quality of the storytelling and the fact that guides involved multiple guides for an engaging, dynamic experience.

Compared to other ghost or history tours, this one stands out for its entertaining approach and the inclusion of humorous characters, which many reviewers found refreshing. It’s a perfect option for travelers who want more than just a spooky walk—they want a story-rich, humorous, and memorable experience that feels genuine and well thought-out.

Practical Considerations

The meeting point outside The Witchery is easily accessible, and the tour’s duration suits most schedules. It’s important to note that the tour runs rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather and wearing comfortable shoes is advised because of cobblestones and stairs. The tour is wheelchair accessible in general, but not during August, so check the specific dates if mobility is a concern.

The departure times vary, and during July and August, tours move to a different meeting point (84 West Bow) due to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and concerts at Edinburgh Castle. Be sure to double-check the meeting location when booking.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

If you’re traveling with family, you’ll find this tour suitable for children (some age restrictions may apply for minors), especially since it’s more humorous than frightening. Reviewers mention that teenagers and even young children laughed and learned. History enthusiasts will appreciate the accuracy and richness of the stories, while those simply after some fun and light scares will enjoy the lively storytelling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a lively, humorous exploration of Edinburgh’s dark past. It’s perfect for families, history buffs, horror fans, or anyone who enjoys storytelling with a comedic twist. Its affordable price and engaging guides make it a fantastic value, especially for those interested in a social, fun experience rather than a purely ghostly or spooky one.

However, if you’re looking for a more intense or detailed ghost investigation, this tour’s light-hearted approach might fall short. It’s more about entertaining storytelling than genuinely chilling encounters, but that’s exactly what many reviews praise.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews highlight that it’s fun and engaging for teenagers and kids, with humorous stories making it accessible and entertaining for all ages.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that won’t take up your entire evening.

Where does the tour start?
The usual meeting point is outside The Witchery restaurant near Edinburgh Castle. During July and August, it moves to 84 West Bow due to local events.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Generally yes, but it’s not wheelchair accessible in August, and some stairs are involved. Check specific dates if accessibility is a concern.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be walking on cobblestones and possibly stairs. Dress for the weather since the tour runs rain or shine.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.

Are pets allowed?
Assistance dogs are permitted, but pets are not allowed on the tour.

What is included in the price?
A qualified ghostly tour guide and the famous ‘Jumper-ooters’—a fun feature of the tour.

Final Thoughts

The Edinburgh Ghosts & Gore Walking Tour is a fantastic way to explore the city’s atmospheric streets while enjoying a mix of humor, history, and ghostly tales. The guides’ storytelling skills and theatrical characters bring Edinburgh’s darker side vividly to life, making this experience both educational and entertaining. The affordable price combined with the inclusion of a free book makes it an excellent value for travelers looking for a memorable night out.

This tour particularly suits those who appreciate a light-hearted approach to history and ghost stories but still want a sense of authenticity. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to learn about Edinburgh’s shadowy past in a fun, relaxed setting.

If you want a well-balanced, engaging tour that combines history, humor, and a touch of spooky charm, look no further. Just wear your walking shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for some tales that will linger long after the tour ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby