Discover Edinburgh's hidden underground cities
What's the story
Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is not just famous for its picturesque landscapes and historic castles but also for its fascinating underground cities. Hidden beneath the bustling streets lie secrets waiting to be discovered, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past. These subterranean worlds are steeped in history, mystery, and intrigue, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Edinburgh from a different perspective.
Mary King's Close
The mysterious Mary King's Close
Beneath the Royal Mile, Mary King's Close is a hidden warren of streets, frozen in time since the 17th century. Once open to the skies and bustling, it was partially demolished and buried under new buildings. Today, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time to explore preserved streets and homes, learning about the lives of its former residents.
Gilmerton Cove
Gilmerton Cove's enigmatic chambers
Gilmerton Cove is an enigmatic network of hand-carved passageways and chambers lying beneath the streets of Gilmerton on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Its origins remain a mystery, with theories suggesting it could have been used by smugglers or as secret meeting places for religious sects. A tour through these sandstone caves provides an intriguing insight into Edinburgh's speculative past.
South Bridge Vaults
The haunting vaults beneath South Bridge
The South Bridge Vaults are a series of chambers formed in the 19 arches of South Bridge, completed in 1788. Initially used by businesses as storage spaces and workshops, they were eventually abandoned due to dampness and became slums housing Edinburgh's poorest. Ghost tours now take visitors through these dark vaults reputedly haunted by their tragic past inhabitants.
Tron Kirk
Tron Kirk's underground secrets
Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile hides one of Edinburgh's lesser-known underground attractions - an exposed section of Marlin's Wynd and Blair Street Underground Vaults. These vaults were discovered during excavations in 1974 and offer another fascinating glimpse into historical city life below street level. It serves as an archaeological window into urban planning from centuries ago.
Arthur's Seat Caves
Exploring the caves of Arthur's Seat
Edinburgh's underground marvels include the natural caves beneath Arthur's Seat, Holyrood Park's extinct volcano. These caves, possibly used as shelters or secret meeting spots, offer a mix of adventure and connection to Scotland's legends. The city's history, from ancient caves to hidden streets under old buildings, invites a unique exploration beyond the usual tourist paths, promising an unforgettable journey through time.