Descend & Discover

Highlights / General details

Deep beneath the streets of Scotland’s capital, you’ll discover the city’s oldest vaults. This self-guided tour is ideal for independent explorers, young and old.

Armed with a map to guide you, descend into the Blair Street Underground Vaults to explore Edinburgh’s subterranean past. See where the city’s destitute lived and worked – and where their restless spirits tread.

An expert guide will start the story for you, then you’re free to roam the vaults. Peering into the darker corners might give you an idea of where the body snatchers hid their wares, or how the city’s most unfortunate inhabitants lived.

The vaults have changed little since the 18th century: in our Discovery Room you’ll find a few artefacts from the first excavation in the 1980s, as well as a 3D model and a captivating presentation.

You’re then free to explore the vaults on your own for up to 45 minutes in the vaults. Go at your own pace, and spend a little time imagining life here: dark, damp, airless spaces, the heart of the city’s underworld.

Inclusion

Self guided tour.

Exclusion

Transportation to and from the departure location; Guide.

Hours of operation

2016-2017: Available daily during April-October, Saturday and Sunday only during November-March, departing at 10:30am and 11:30am.

2017-2018: Available daily departing at 11:30am year round.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure.

Duration

Approximately 45 minutes.

Hours of operation

2016-2017: Available daily during April-October, Saturday and Sunday only during November-March, departing at 10:30am and 11:30am.

2017-2018: Available daily departing at 11:30am year round.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure.

Participant restrictions

Bookings are not permitted for children under the age of 5.

Policies

Cancellation: Always Non-refundable.

For health and safety reasons, anyone deemed to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be admitted on the tour. No refunds will be given in such an event.

Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.

**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**