The Historic Underground Vaults Tour

Highlights

• Get exclusive access to Edinburgh’s underground world, the Blair Street Vaults
• Follow your guide through the shadowy closes of the vaults and learn about their fascinating history
• Explore, see and touch original artifacts from the 19th century
• Discover how people used to live and work in these damp, hidden caverns

Your Experience

When the construction of Edinburgh’s South Bridge was completed in 1788, there was a bustling underground world that existed in its shadows – the Blair Street Underground Vaults. Unfortunately, the vaults began to get abandoned, thanks to poor ventilation and frequent flooding. A seedier crowd eventually took over this dark, damp, underground world. Brothels, gambling centers and the city’s poorest residents all crammed into the tightest of spaces here. It was eventually filled with rubble and sealed in the mid 19th century and was only accidentally rediscovered in the 1980s.

During your time here, you will get to experience a part of Edinburgh’s history that was very nearly forgotten. Illuminated by flickering candles and torches, the vaults offer a haunting atmosphere. Listen to your guide, a master storyteller take you through some of the only artifacts to have survived!