The Edinburgh Vaults are a series of underground chambers formed in the arches of South Bridge, hidden beneath one of Edinburgh's busiest streets. Built in 1788 and used for everything from taverns to slum housing, they were abandoned and forgotten for over a century before being rediscovered in the 1980s.
Today, guided tours take visitors into this underground world, revealing the harsh realities of life for Edinburgh's poorest residents and the dark trades that flourished away from daylight. The vaults have also gained a fearsome reputation for paranormal activity, making them a favourite for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers.
Unlike Mary King's Close (which was part of the city street level), the vaults were always underground—deliberately built spaces beneath the bridge. The damp, dark conditions made them unsuitable for long-term use, but desperation drove Edinburgh's poorest to live here nonetheless.
Types of Tours
Historic Vault Tour
History & social conditions
Learn the true history of the vaults—who lived and worked here, the dark trades that flourished, and how these underground chambers were rediscovered.
Ghost Tour
Paranormal & horror
Explore the darker side of the vaults with tales of paranormal activity, documented hauntings, and Edinburgh's supernatural history.
After Dark Experience
Intense ghost hunting
Extended evening tour with heightened atmosphere. Fewer lights, more ghost stories, and access to areas not seen on daytime tours.
Doomed, Dead & Buried
Combined tour
Combines the underground vaults with Greyfriars Kirkyard for a complete exploration of Edinburgh's dark history above and below ground.
History of the Vaults
South Bridge Completed
The 19-arch bridge was built to connect the Old Town to the South. The vaults were created in the bridge's arches.
Commercial Use
Vaults used as taverns, cobblers, smelters, and workshops. Tradespeople worked and sometimes lived in the chambers.
Slum Dwellings
As water seeped in, legitimate businesses left. The poorest residents moved in, living in terrible conditions.
Abandoned & Forgotten
Vaults were filled with rubble and forgotten. Edinburgh built over its past, sealing the chambers for over a century.
Rediscovery
Rugby player Norrie Rowan discovered the vaults while renovating a building. Excavation revealed remarkably preserved chambers.
Tourist Attraction
Multiple tour companies offer access to different sections of the vaults, bringing Edinburgh's underground history to life.
Visitor Tips
- ✓Book tours online in advance, especially for ghost tours
- ✓Wear flat, sturdy shoes - uneven stone floors throughout
- ✓Bring a jacket - it's around 10°C underground year-round
- ✓Evening tours have better atmosphere but book up fast
- ✓Choose history tours for facts, ghost tours for thrills
- ✓Photography may be restricted - check with your tour
- ✓Halloween and October book out early - plan ahead
- ✓Combine with a Mary King's Close visit for double underground fun
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Edinburgh Vaults haunted?
The vaults have a fearsome reputation for paranormal activity. Staff and visitors regularly report unexplained phenomena including cold spots, sounds, touches, and sightings. Whether you believe depends on your perspective, but the stories are genuinely unsettling.
How much do Edinburgh Vault tours cost?
Prices range from £15-25 for standard tours, with premium experiences costing more. Booking online usually offers the best rates. Student and family discounts are often available.
How long are Edinburgh Vault tours?
Tours typically last 60-90 minutes. Extended ghost tours and special experiences can run up to 2 hours. Allow extra time for the gift shop and post-tour exploration of the area.
Are the Edinburgh Vaults claustrophobic?
The vaults involve underground spaces with low ceilings and enclosed chambers. If you have severe claustrophobia, tours may be challenging. Most people find them atmospheric rather than truly cramped.
Can children visit the Edinburgh Vaults?
Historic tours accept children 5+. Ghost tours are typically 12+ due to scary content. After-dark experiences are 16 or 18+. Check with your chosen tour company for specific age restrictions.
Do I need to book Edinburgh Vaults in advance?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended. Tours have limited capacity and popular times sell out, especially evening ghost tours in summer and around Halloween.
What should I wear to the Edinburgh Vaults?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (the ground is uneven). Bring a jacket—it's cool underground regardless of weather. Dress warmly for evening tours.
Are the Edinburgh Vaults wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, no. The vaults involve stairs and uneven surfaces with no lift access. Tours are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility issues.