Mercat Tours

Mercat Tours has been leading walking tours in Edinburgh since 1985, giving it decades of experience in the city. Its tours start from the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile and range from daytime history walks to evening ghost tours. A particular strength is access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults, which feature on several tours.

The history walks include Historic Vaults, which explores the underground chambers and the people who used them, and Secrets of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, a walk along the Old Town's main street with an option to add entry to Edinburgh Castle. Both are suitable for ages five and over. The ghost tours include Haunted Underground, which heads into the Blair Street vaults in the afternoon or evening, and Gory Stories: The Kids' Tour, a family-friendly version for younger visitors.

Around Halloween the company adds seasonal tours, including some for adults only, such as Raising the Dead and Witches: Trial and Truth, alongside Halloween Underground and Spirits of Halloween for ages five and over. Check age guidance on each tour before booking, as content and minimum ages vary.

Mercat Tours says its tours sell out fast and recommends booking direct for the best price; returning visitors receive a discount on their next booking. Tours run at different times of day, so you can fit one around other sightseeing, and an evening ghost tour is a popular way to end a day in the Old Town. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a warm layer, as the vaults can be cool and the Old Town's streets are steep and cobbled. The team can be contacted by phone, email or WhatsApp, with WhatsApp support available daily from noon to 10pm.

Mercat Tours suits families, couples, solo travellers and groups, with something for history enthusiasts and those who prefer a scare. In late October the Halloween programme is especially popular, so book early if your visit falls in that week. The Mercat Cross is easy to find on the High Street section of the Royal Mile, a short walk from Waverley station via Cockburn Street. After a tour, St Giles' Cathedral and the Real Mary King's Close are nearby, and the Old Town's pubs and restaurants are all around.