A Mercat Tours Storyteller shines a torch on an arch for a tour group, in the Blair Street Underground Vaults, Edinburgh.

Blair Street Underground Vaults, Edinburgh

Mercat Tours - Historic Vaults

Get exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults – the largest system of underground caverns in Edinburgh. Built in the 18th century beneath South Bridge, we’re the only walking tour company with access.

Beneath the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh’s Old Town, you’ll discover a dark, damp world that has remained unchanged since the 18th Century. Step into the depths of the Blair Street Underground Vaults on a multi-sensory journey of perfectly preserved history and learn how these vaulted chambers became home to the city’s most destitute inhabitants.  

Breathe in the scent of Edinburgh’s past as our award-winning Storytellers share vivid accounts of life within the vaults, revealing Edinburgh’s history in a way you’ll never forget. 

This is more than a walking tour, it’s an unmissable immersive experience. 

Want to see Edinburgh’s darkest secret? Descend into the vaults, exclusive to Mercat Tours.

It’s a story rooted in Edinburgh’s Georgian past – grand feats of engineering, the expansion of the city, and those who were left behind in its darker corners. But why were the vaults built? And who used them? 

All your questions will be answered throughout the duration of our Historic Vaults tour, where our master Storytellers bring the history of the underground vaults to life. 

Continue your journey in our Vaults Museum, where authentic historic artifacts and informative interactive displays provide further insight into the vaults' past. 

From £25 per adult


Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

January — December

Contact details

Mercat Tours

28 Blair Street
Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Scotland
EH1 1QR

Key facilities

  • Hearing Loop

Tour information

Starting

  • Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh & The Lothians
  • Edinburgh - City Centre

Length

1Hour

Transport

  • Walking

Type

  • Small Group (1-16)

Languages

  • English

Themes

  • Adventure
  • City
  • Family
  • History
  • Outdoor Activities
  • Walking
  • Walking/Hiking
See more

Tour prices


From £25 Per Adult £19 Per Child £22 Concession

Book now

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Tour Stops

Edinburgh
Royal Mile and Grassmarket
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Mercat Tours

Tour company information

Mercat Tours

'History is a damn good story, what it needs is a damn good telling' Join In! Enjoy immersive storytelling experiences as you explore Edinburgh's Old Town. Stories Connect You'll have a deep connection with the people & places of the past and build remarkable memories of Scotland's ancient & beautiful capital. Good for You, Good for Everyone Choosing us, a local, independent family business and Living Wage employer, means you support an ethical team rooted in our local community since 1985

Opening times

Daily 9am to 10pm

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