History Walks
Historic Underground
In summary
- Get exclusive access to the Blair Street Underground Vaults – the city’s oldest, deepest vaults
- Discover the history of day-to-day life in Old Town Edinburgh’s wynds and closes, as well as in the vaults
- See authentic 19th Century artefacts found in the vaults
- Visit our Discovery Room, with 3D models and displays
- Mercat exclusive audio devices - be immersed and get lost in the stories...
- Choosing Mercat is 'Good for you, Good for Edinburgh' - our team, community and planet
About this tour
Edinburgh 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. Your expert Storyteller will lead you deep into the Blair Street Underground Vaults, and together you’ll explore its perfectly preserved history – including how it became home to the city’s most destitute inhabitants.
Underground tours
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 Underground tour, where our award-winning storytellers bring the history of the vaults to life.
Customer review
"Very interesting, learnt a lot about Edinburgh history and how the vaults came about, also how they were used."
Abi, GoogleBook ticket
Tour details
Dates & times
Daily; morning & afternoon
If you are a returning visitor and booked directly through Mercat Tours, you’re eligible for our Returner’s Reward
Duration
- 1 hours 15 minutes
Step count
- 650
Tour location
- Start point: Mercat Cross, High Street
- End point: Blair Street Underground Vaults, Blair Street, off Hunter's Square
Private group bookings
Reconnect with friends and family on a tour just for you. Book online now, or we're happy to help on email groups@mercattours.com
Details
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Donate to help us reconnect vulnerable communities through storytelling - learn more about Our Stories, Your City.
- Everyone has a warm welcome from us;
- Local Edinburgh residents eligible for concession rates (EH postcodes)
- Complimentary tickets are available for carers, to book call us on 0131 225 5445.
- Read how we include you here
- See our Euan's Guide Reviews.
- Language: English. Learn more on our FAQs
Need help booking?
Get in touch with us and one of our experts will be able to give you advice on our tours.
Customer review
"Very interesting, learnt a lot about Edinburgh history and how the vaults came about, also how they were used."
Abi, GoogleOther tours you might like
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Souvenir Guidebooks
Don't forget to buy a Mercat Tours souvenir guidebook with your ticket.
See insideAwards
