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In summary

  • Hear centuries of myths dispelled – it’s time for truth  
  • Uncover the very real history behind Scotland’s witch trials   
  • Discover true accounts of those accused of witchcraft  
  • Visit the locations where Scotland’s witches were once executed, and are now remembered  
  • Mercat Tours exclusive multi-sensory tours; master Storyteller guides are at the heart of each experience, enhanced with hand-picked sounds of Edinburgh and delivered through TourTalk audio devices - be immersed and get lost in the stories... 
  • Choosing Mercat is ‘Good for you, Good for Edinburgh’ - our team, community and planet. 
  • Please note this tour is adults-only due to mature themes. 

About this tour

The History of Scotland’s Witches 

Accused, tried, and tortured. Step into Scotland’s shadowy past on this immersive five-star Edinburgh history tour. Follow in the final tragic footsteps of those condemned as ‘witches’ and bear witness to the devastating truth. 

You’ll be transported back to a dark time ruled by a crazed king and his obsession with ‘otherworldly phenomenon’.  Under the spell of a master storyteller you’re invited to listen carefully and perhaps think again...   

Persecution of the weak, the wise and skilled?  Roused by fear and envy?  Inflamed by religious zeal?    

Feel the tension rise as you journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town, along ancient cobbled closes and hidden alleyways. With the conjured scent of smoke in the air and the echoes of crackling flames, stand upon the Castle Esplanade — the site where hundreds burned at the stake.  

Witches of Edinburgh 

Hunted and hanged. Around 2,500 people were executed for witchcraft in Scotland across two centuries. Agnes, Geilis, Janet, John… Learn names and hear stories of the women, and men, accused of sorcery. Alleged psychics, hexers, and communicators with the devil coerced into confession. Our stories will begin with the accusations, then the trials and lead to the tragic fate suffered by many.  

History and Hysteria: Their Trials and Truth Told 

There was no justice in court, nor truth in tribunals for accused ‘witches’. On this tour, our award-winning master Storytellers shine a light on the truth behind the trials and the real reasons behind the witch crazes that swept like a plague for centuries, across Scotland and beyond. 

The past is calling. Will you bear witness? 

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Tour details

Dates & times

Saturdays; afternoon

  • If you are a returning visitor and booked directly through Mercat Tours, you’re eligible for our Returner’s Reward

Duration

  • 1 hours 30 minutes

Step count

  • 1200

Tour location

  • Start point: Mercat Cross, High Street
  • End point: Edinburgh Castle esplanade, Castlehill

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 info@mercattours.com

 

Details

  • Donate to help us reconnect vulnerable communities through storytelling - learn more about Our Stories, Your City.
  • Everyone has a warm welcome from us;
  1. Local Edinburgh residents eligible for concession rates (EH postcodes)
  2. Carers supported with a free ticket, to book call us on 0131 225 5445.
  3. Read how we work to include you, here
  4. 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.

Witches; Trial and Truth

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Souvenir Guidebooks

Don't forget to buy a Mercat Tours souvenir guidebook with your ticket.

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