Audio Guide of Edinburgh Vaults

The Edinburgh Vaults offer guided tours mainly in the afternoon and evening, with common departures at 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM during the week, and more options on weekends; check the current schedule on the official website as it varies by season. The meeting point is in the heart of the Old Town, at 2 High Street, Edinburgh; book your tour online through Mercat Tours to secure a spot.

The price of a standard guided tour is around 18–20 pounds sterling per adult, with discounts for children and families; there is no free admission, as access is only through organized tours. You can buy tickets online at Mercat Tours or on site, but booking in advance is recommended to avoid queues.

A typical tour lasts about 1 hour, including the introduction and exploration of the underground vaults; it is immersive without becoming too long. I recommend arriving 15 minutes early for check-in, making the total experience about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Built in 1788 beneath South Bridge, the vaults served as dwellings for Edinburgh’s poorest residents during the Georgian era, becoming centers of crime and extreme poverty until their closure in 1820; today, they are a key site for understanding underground life and ghost stories in the Scottish capital. Their preservation offers a fascinating window into the city’s darker history.

The best time is during summer (June to August) to enjoy longer days and available tours, or at night at any time of year for a chilling atmosphere with ghost stories; avoid the winter months if you are looking for comfort, as it can be colder and damper. Evening sessions are ideal for an immersive experience, especially in autumn.

Unfortunately, the vaults involve steep stairs and narrow underground passageways, so they are not accessible for wheelchairs or people with severe mobility difficulties; it is recommended to contact Mercat Tours at +44 (0)131 225 5445 for alternative options or adapted tours. If you have specific needs, notify them in advance for guidance.

Nearby you will find the Royal Mile, just a few minutes away on foot, with shops, pubs, and St Giles' Cathedral; Edinburgh Castle is a 10-minute uphill walk away, and the Museum of Childhood is just steps away. Also explore the ghost tour at Mary King's Close for more underground stories, combining visits for a full day in the Old Town.

Wear comfortable, warm clothing, as the vaults are cold and damp all year round; book in advance at Mercat Tours to avoid disappointment, and consider joining a Spanish-language tour if you prefer. Do not forget your camera (without flash) and be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces; if you are traveling in a group, private tours offer greater flexibility.