History tours · DARK HISTORY AND HAUNTED TOURS IN THE UK
The 8 dark history and haunted tours in the UK worth the slot, with what each one costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is first for a reason.
Walk Edinburgh’s Old Town with guides such as Holly, Chihon, Emily, and Morven, then enter the Niddry Wynd vaults beneath South Bridge. Expect Scottish history, dark tales, architecture, and plenty of questions in a relaxed group of no more than six. Wear sturdy shoes for steps and uneven ground.
“Emilee was great, such an amazing storyteller with a vast amount of knowledge. She was our favorite guide so far.”
Start at the Guy Fawkes Inn at 6:30 pm for a 90-minute English-language walk through York’s darker past. Guides including Dan, Josh, and Mackenzie use theatrical storytelling around the Minster and lesser-seen streets, finishing near the Shambles. Expect outdoor walking, cobbles, cold weather, and stories that can unsettle younger children.
“Wonderful ghost walk around the most spooky bits of York! Bought this for our grown up kids and they really enjoyed their evening out!”
Join a character guide such as Hazel, Juniper, or Angelica for a 75-minute English walking tour from the Royal Mile to Grassmarket. Hear the human stories behind Scotland’s witch trials, pass historic closes and wynds, and connect Edinburgh’s dark past with places linked to Outlander and Harry Potter.
“Hazel was a lovely and knowledgeable guide , it was very interesting to know more about the history of the city and its witches. We just wish it would be a little longer or maybe with deeper explanations of other aspects of history maybe considering the price. But overall it was a nice experience.”
Follow a costumed guide such as Cornelius, Merlot, Willow, or Nutmeg through York’s old town for 75 minutes of true witch stories, murders, hauntings, and local history. The route links Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, the Shambles, York Minster, Stonegate, Barley Hall, and small lanes. Expect outdoor walking, theatrical storytelling, and cobblestones.
“The Magnificent Merlot was an amazing tour guide, very knowledgeable it amazed me how much he knew & remembered, very talented! He was very funny & entertaining. The tour itself was very interesting & factual, definitely great value for money, I recommend it to anyone interested in witches & York history.”
Walk Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with guides such as Robert, James, Joe, Kieran, or Lydia, hearing true stories of executions, plague, crime, body snatching, and grim city customs. The route runs from West Parliament Square to Canongate Kirk, takes about two hours, and focuses more on history than ghosts.
“Our guide, Joe, was great! The weather was less than ideal but he was on point nonetheless. The material was interesting and informative, very cool.”
Walk from Parliament Square to Grassmarket with a costumed or theatrical guide such as Juniper, Hazel, or Angelica. You’ll hear about Scottish witch trials, Mary Queen of Scots, North Berwick witches, public executions, and infamous local figures. The 70 to 75 minute route uses steep streets, steps, and cobbles, with storytelling at eight historic stops.
“Great experience and tour by Angelica of Edinburgh and everything Witch related which was very informative”
Follow a guide in witch character through York’s medieval center, from Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate to the Shambles. Guides such as Nix, Merlot, Willow, and Cornelius combine York history, witch tales, jokes, and crowd interaction. The walk lasts about 70 to 75 minutes, is in English, and suits adults and children.
“My Mum and I loved the tour with Nix. Very informative and entertaining, we very much recommend it. I loved how Nix responded and reacted to other passers by and how she parted the crowds with her broom!”
Walk Liverpool’s dark side for 90 minutes with theatrical guides such as Chilla Black, Meryl Creep, and Indiana Bones. Starting at the Philharmonic Dining Rooms, you’ll visit both cathedrals, Rodney Street, Wellington Rooms, and the Gothic cemetery in St James’ Gardens. Expect local history, ghost stories, audience banter, sound effects, and a few surprises.
“Fun way to spend an hour and half in Liverpool and learn some history on the way. Would rate the guides very highly - their theatirical presentation was well thought out with little extras to engage the group They quickly built a good rapport with us and broke down reservations of what to expect. The guides worked well as a team - and responded to the public passing by well. I absolutely loved these two guys - and would willimg go on any other tour with them Give them a try -.I dare ypu!”
Ancient, medieval, colonial, modern, and the cities that do each one best.
