Private Aberdeen Dark Side Walking Tour

Exploring the Shadows of Aberdeen: A Dark Side Walking Tour Review

If you’re intrigued by the mysterious, macabre, or simply enjoy uncovering the lesser-known stories behind a city, the Private Aberdeen Dark Side Walking Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s darker chapters. This 1.5-hour experience takes you through historic streets and sites, revealing tales of murderers, witch hunts, and public executions that once darkened Aberdeen’s streets. The tour is designed for small groups—up to six people—making it intimate and personalized, led by a local guide who’s passionate about sharing Aberdeen’s hidden, sometimes chilling, history.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines storytelling with authentic city exploration. The guide’s insights bring the past vividly to life, making each stop memorable. A notable feature is the focus on genuine stories, from bone-chilling murders in local pubs to the origins of street names with sinister histories. The experience is also flexible, private, and perfect for those who want a tailor-made, off-the-beaten-path look at Aberdeen’s more shadowy side.

On the flip side, a consideration for prospective travelers is that the tour does not include entry into any buildings or sites of interest—so if you’re eager for museum visits or detailed site access, you’ll need to plan additional visits. Also, the tour requires good weather, as it’s primarily an outdoor walk, which might affect your experience during rainy or stormy days.

This experience is best suited for history buffs, fans of true crime stories, or anyone curious about the darker tales lurking beneath Aberdeen’s historic façade. It’s equally appealing for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a memorable, story-rich walk that blends history with a touch of mystery.

Key Points

• Intimate Private Tour: Small group size (up to 6) allows for personalized storytelling.
• Authentic Stories: Focus on real tales of crime, witches, and folklore that shaped Aberdeen.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops cover historic sites, pubs, and streets with dark histories.
• Local Guides: Passionate guides bring stories to life with enthusiasm and insight.
• No Entrance Fees: Tour is primarily outdoor, with no included admissions.
• Weather-Dependent: Best enjoyed in good weather, as it’s an outdoor walking experience.

In-Depth Look at the Aberdeen Dark Side Tour

Starting Point: The Tolbooth Museum
Your journey begins outside the historic Tolbooth Museum. Here, your guide offers a quick introduction to Aberdeen’s shadowy past. This spot, with its historical significance, sets the tone and primes you for the stories ahead. Though the museum itself isn’t included, standing outside it allows a glimpse into Aberdeen’s civic past—and a fitting start for tales of justice and punishment.

Castlegate: The Suppressed Castle and Troubling Tales
Next, you stroll through Castlegate, the heart of old Aberdeen. Your guide explains why the city’s castle no longer stands—an intriguing mystery that often sparks questions. The area’s historical importance makes it a natural setting for stories of power struggles, executions, and public punishments. You’ll appreciate how the guide weaves in local legends and historical facts, making this stop both educational and atmospheric.

Commerce Street: Blood on the Ground
On Heading Hill, known locally as Commerce Street, the tour reveals a darker past—this was once one of the bloodiest locations in Aberdeen. Here, you learn about violent episodes and the grim events that unfolded in the city’s past. The street today appears quiet and unassuming, but the stories told here transform it into a place of dark intrigue, giving context to Aberdeen’s often overlooked violent history.

Saltoun Arms: A Pub with a Murky Past
Your guide shares the chilling story of a murder that took place in this cozy pub—adding a layer of eeriness to what might otherwise seem like just a local watering hole. This stop exemplifies how ordinary places can hide extraordinary, sinister stories. It’s a vivid reminder that history isn’t always about grand monuments; sometimes, the darkest tales are tucked away in familiar settings.

Guestrow: The Deceptive Name and Ghostly Secrets
You’ll learn about the origins of the street’s name and its grisly history. The name might suggest something friendly or welcoming, but the tour reveals its sinister side—stories of executions, hauntings, and ghostly sightings that persist today. It’s a perfect example of how history and folklore intertwine in Aberdeen’s urban fabric.

Netherkirkgate: Subterranean Secrets
This street is known for its underground tunnels called souterrains—used historically for hiding or escape. Your guide explains their purpose and shares stories of their use during turbulent times. The street’s evolution over centuries reflects Aberdeen’s ability to adapt, but its underground mysteries remind us that history’s darker layers often lie just beneath the surface.

Kirk of St. Nicholas: The Oldest Church
As the oldest kirk in Aberdeen, this church has witnessed centuries of change. The guide explains why it’s dedicated to St. Nicholas and how religious history played a role in societal punishments and witch hunts. Its architecture and age make it a symbol of enduring history, contrasting with the darker stories told around it.

The Green and Aedie’s House
This tranquil square hides secrets of past residents and stories of forgotten lives. The guide shares tales of Aedie’s House and the mysteries surrounding it. Despite its peaceful appearance, it’s a site layered with stories of betrayal, secrets, and lost souls—perfect for those interested in the hidden narratives of everyday places.

The Exchange Bar & Brother Francis’ Sad Tale
Your tour wraps up outside this lively bar, with the story of Brother Francis—a tragic figure connected to local legend. It’s a poignant way to end the experience, blending a lively modern setting with echoes of the city’s darker past.

The Value of the Dark Side Tour

When considering the cost of $171.68 for a private group, it’s important to recognize the value in personalized stories and the exclusive nature of this experience. The guide’s local knowledge and storytelling skills make this a high-quality, engaging way to see Aberdeen through a different lens. Since no entry fees are involved, the main investment is in your time and curiosity.

This tour is especially worthwhile for those who love storytelling, history, or ghostly legends. It’s a different way to explore Aberdeen that goes beyond typical sightseeing, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s less glamorous, more mysterious side. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic tales rather than polished tourist attractions.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts looking for a unique perspective, dark-tour lovers interested in true crime and folklore, or curious travelers wanting a small-group, intimate experience. It’s ideal for those who appreciate storytelling with a local touch, and who don’t mind walking outdoors in potentially unpredictable weather. Families, couples, or solo adventurers will all find something fascinating in Aberdeen’s shadowy corners.

It’s a well-balanced tour that combines education with entertainment, giving a richer understanding of Aberdeen’s history while keeping it fun and engaging.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, with a maximum of six people, making it personalized and intimate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable but richly informative experience.

Are there any entrance fees?
No, admission to sites is not included, as the focus is on outdoor exploration and storytelling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Tolbooth Museum on Castle Street and ends outside the Exchange Bar & Kitchen on Exchange Street.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is necessary, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the dark and sometimes gruesome stories may not be suitable for young children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Are there any restrictions for accessibility?
The tour is primarily outdoor and involves walking, so mobility limitations might need to be considered.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since the tour is outdoors.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Based on reviews, guides like Kirsty are praised for their engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of Aberdeen’s dark past.

To sum it up, the Private Aberdeen Dark Side Walking Tour offers a distinct way to experience this historic city. It’s perfect for those eager to see beyond the monuments and explore the stories that shaped Aberdeen’s more shadowed legacy. Whether you’re a history fanatic or simply curious about the eerie tales of the past, this tour promises a memorable, story-filled journey through Aberdeen’s darker streets.