Small Group Edinburgh Underground Vaults Historical Walk

Beneath the charming streets of Edinburgh lies a captivating history waiting to be explored. On this small-group historical walk, visitors can venture into the 18th-century Blair Street Underground Vaults, where over 100 businesses once thrived. Accompanied by expert guides, they’ll use TourTalk radio receivers to enjoy the atmospheric spaces and uncover the haunting tales of Infirmary Street. This unique glimpse into Edinburgh’s storied past promises to leave visitors intrigued and eager to discover more about the vibrant commercial community that once occupied these concealed chambers.

Just The Basics

• Explore the network of 18th-century underground chambers in Edinburgh, the former site of taverns, workshops, and storage spaces.
• Enjoy a small-group tour led by professional local guides and award-winning storytellers, with exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults.
• Discover excavated spaces, remnants of past businesses, and the haunting history of the Infirmary Street area through immersive storytelling and TourTalk radio technology.
• Tour begins at the Mercat Cross and ends at the Mercat Tours office on Blair Street, ensuring a seamless transition.
• Bookings can be made directly on the Mercat Tours website, with year-round availability and two afternoon timeslots to choose from.

Overview of the Edinburgh Vaults

Beneath the historic streets of Edinburgh, Scotland lies a network of underground chambers known as the Edinburgh Vaults, or the South Bridge Vaults, which date back to the 18th century.

These expansive vaults were originally constructed to house taverns, workshops, and storage spaces.

Over time, the vaults fell into disrepair and were abandoned, only to be rediscovered centuries later.

Today, these underground chambers offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past, with evidence of excavated storage spaces, human habitation, and even remnants of the former taverns and wine vaults.

Visitors can explore this unique historical site and learn about the 100 or so businesses that once thrived in the concealed space beneath the city streets.

Tour Details and Inclusions

The Edinburgh Underground Vaults Historical Walk offers a small-group experience limited to a maximum of 18 people, with a choice of two afternoon tour times. Participants will be accompanied by a professional local guide and award-winning storytellers, who will provide an immersive experience using TourTalk radio receivers. The tour includes exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults, where visitors can explore the excavated storage spaces, evidence of human habitation, and former taverns with wine vaults.

Tour Details	Inclusions
Small-group experience	Professional local guide
Maximum of 18 people	Award-winning storytellers
Choice of two afternoon times	TourTalk radio receivers
Exclusive access to Blair Street Vaults	Evidence of past business and habitation

Meeting Point and End Location

The tour begins at the Mercat Cross on High Street in Edinburgh, EH1 1RF, and concludes at Mercat Tours on Blair Street, EH1 1QR.

This meeting point is a convenient and central location in the heart of the city, making it easy for participants to find.

Once the tour is finished, visitors will return to the Mercat Tours office on Blair Street, where the experience began.

The end point is just a short walk from the initial meeting location, allowing for a seamless transition between the start and finish of the underground vaults tour.

This straightforward logistics ensure a smooth and efficient journey through Edinburgh’s hidden historical wonders.

Highlights of the Underground Exploration

Visitors embark on an immersive journey through the dark and nearly-forgotten underground chambers, where they’ll hear tales of the vaults’ storied past.

Highlights of the exploration include:

1. Discovering the excavated storage spaces, human habitation, and remnants of taverns with wine vaults that once thrived in this concealed world beneath the city.

2. Learning about the 100 or so businesses that operated at the South Bridge and utilized the underground spaces.

3. Uncovering the haunting history of Infirmary Street, the former site of Edinburgh’s medical school.

4. Experiencing the atmosphere of these atmospheric chambers through the use of cutting-edge TourTalk radio technology, which immerses guests in the storytelling.

Businesses and Habitation in the Vaults

Once thriving in the concealed underground chambers, over 100 businesses operated along the South Bridge, utilizing the vaults for a variety of purposes, from storage spaces to taverns with wine cellars.

The vaults were home to a vibrant commercial community, with merchants, craftsmen, and even medical professionals setting up shop in the network of interconnected rooms.

Evidence of this past activity can be seen in the excavated spaces, which reveal the remnants of these former enterprises.

From the storage areas used to hold goods and supplies to the cozy taverns where patrons would gather, the vaults offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s lively underground economy during the 18th century.

Haunting Tales of Infirmary Street

Aside from the former thriving businesses, the vaults are also known for their haunting tales associated with Infirmary Street, the former site of Edinburgh’s medical school.

Infirmary Street’s dark history has long captivated visitors, who often recount eerie experiences and sightings within the underground chambers.

From ghostly encounters to unexplained noises, the vaults have become a hub for paranormal activity. Visitors have reported:

1. Witnessing shadowy figures lurking in the corners
2. Hearing disembodied voices echoing through the tunnels
3. Feeling an overwhelming sense of unease and dread
4. Experiencing inexplicable temperature drops and electrical disturbances

These chilling tales add to the rich history and mystique of the Edinburgh Underground Vaults, making them a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly unforgettable experience.

Accessibility and Transportation Information

The Edinburgh Underground Vaults tours aren’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

Public transportation, including buses and trams, are available near the meeting point at Mercat Cross.

The tours start and end at different locations, with the meeting point at Mercat Cross and the end point at 28 Blair Street.

The tours are guaranteed year-round, so visitors should dress appropriately for the weather conditions and wear comfortable shoes.

Groups are limited to 18 people, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

With the TourTalk radio receiver, visitors can enjoy an immersive storytelling experience as they explore the 18th-century underground chambers of the Edinburgh Vaults.

Tour Booking and Confirmation

Visitors can book the Edinburgh Underground Vaults tour directly on the Mercat Tours website, receiving confirmation at the time of booking. The tours run year-round, with guests able to choose from two afternoon timeslots.

This small-group experience is limited to a maximum of 18 people, ensuring an intimate and immersive exploration of the 18th-century underground chambers.

The tour includes:

1. A professional local guide who shares captivating stories about the vaults’ history and past inhabitants.
2. Award-winning storytellers who bring the dark and forgotten spaces to life.
3. Exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults.
4. The use of TourTalk radio receivers for an enhanced storytelling experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors are advised to check with the tour guide beforehand.

While capturing the historic underground vaults can be tempting, some areas may have restrictions or be dimly lit, making photography challenging.

It’s best to prioritize the immersive storytelling experience and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure an enjoyable and informative tour for all participants.

Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for visitors with significant mobility issues.

According to the information provided, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, which indicates there are likely stairs, uneven terrain, and other challenges for those with limited mobility.

While the tour may be manageable for some with minor mobility concerns, individuals with more substantial mobility limitations may find it difficult to fully participate in and enjoy the underground vaults experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 5 years old. Children under 5 aren’t permitted on the tour.

This is likely due to the potentially dark and eerie nature of the underground vaults, which may not be suitable for very young visitors.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so individuals with mobility issues may have difficulty navigating the space.

What Should I Bring for the Underground Exploration?

When exploring underground vaults, it’s important to come prepared. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and dress in layers, as the underground spaces can be chilly.

Bring a small flashlight or headlamp to navigate the dimly lit areas. Plus, consider bringing a water bottle and snacks, as the tour can last a few hours.

Most importantly, be mindful of your surroundings and follow any safety instructions provided by the tour guide.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

It’s generally recommended to purchase tickets in advance for this popular underground tour. Advance booking helps ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Tickets can be purchased online through the tour provider’s website. This allows you to select your preferred tour time and guarantees your spot on the small-group experience.

Buying tickets ahead of time can provide peace of mind and help you make the most of your Edinburgh visit.

Sum Up

This small group historical walk through Edinburgh’s underground vaults offers a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant commercial and haunting past.

Accompanied by expert guides, visitors can enjoy the atmospheric spaces and uncover the captivating stories of the over 100 businesses that once thrived in these concealed chambers.

The tour provides a fascinating exploration of Edinburgh’s storied history, accessible to all.