Edinburgh Vaults: Exploring the Hidden Depths of South Bridge
September 02, 2024
Nestled beneath the iconic South Bridge, the Edinburgh Vaults are a labyrinth of underground chambers, steeped in a dark and intriguing history.
Originally established in the late 18th century to house taverns and provide workshops for tradesmen and merchants, the vaults later became an unofficial refuge for the city’s poorest, rumoured to attract criminal activity such as body snatching in its murky depths.
Today, the vaults are a testament to the city’s history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's social and economic past, and spotlighting the stark contrast between the burgeoning merchants and the poverty-stricken residents below.
For those looking to immerse themselves in Edinburgh's dark and mysterious history, staying at The Witchery by the Castle provides an experience unparalleled to anywhere else.
Hidden in a collection of historic buildings dating back to 1595, just by the gates of the Castle, explore the heart of medieval Edinburgh with an indulgent stay at the capital’s secret gothic hotel and explore the city’s fascinating past for yourself.
History of the Edinburgh Vaults
Origin and Early Use
Constructed in the late 18th century, the South Bridge Vaults were designed to connect the Old Town’s High Street to the newly developed areas to the South. The idea was to create storage space for businesses, merchants, and workshops in the bustling city of Edinburgh.
Transition and Decline
Due to insufficient waterproofing and a lack of sturdy construction, the vaults began to suffer from flooding, and dampness soon took over. By the 19th century, the damage was so significant, and the conditions of the vaults had suffered so greatly, that businesses soon moved out leaving the Edinburgh Vaults abandoned.
The Centre of Illegal Activity
The vaults quickly became a refuge for Edinburgh’s impoverished residents. Despite the dark, damp, and disorderly conditions, the chambers offered asylum for those seeking shelter and it didn’t take long for the chambers to be overrun with criminal activity.
Illegal tavern trading, robbery, and even murder were among some of the heinous crimes that took place.
Getting to the Edinburgh Vaults
Travelling by Bus
Edinburgh City has a convenient public transport network, including its bus routes, which are straightforward and efficient, guaranteeing you a quick and easy journey to explore. Numerous buses pass through the city centre, and many will stop near South Bridge so you can begin your Edinburgh Vaults adventure.
Sightseeing Tours
History enthusiasts looking for a more guided experience, many of Edinburgh’s sightseeing tours include a journey to the past, allowing you to step into Edinburgh Vaults.
These tours are excellent for those seeking additional context, historical story-telling, and an enriched visit. Options range from the hop-on-hop-off bus tours, or The Vaults Tour itself, which is a specialised tour solely focused on the vaults and the streets of Old Town.
On Foot
The best way to experience Edinburgh is to see it for yourself on foot. Take in the breathtaking architecture of historic buildings, appreciate the iconic cobblestoned streets, and absorb the atmospheric city at your fingertips.
You can begin at the Royal Mile and take a leisurely stroll to South Bridge. On your travels, you can expect to see some of Edinburgh’s most iconic spots including St. Giles’ Cathedral. Walking on foot allows the opportunity to soak up the city’s charm at a pace that feels just right.
From The Witchery
Experience the short, scenic 8-minute walk down the Royal Mile and enjoy the ambience that surrounds you while you soak up the magic of the city. The close proximity allows you to elevate your journey through time, and combine luxury stays with an adventure to the city’s mysterious past.
Visiting the Edinburgh Vaults
Exploring the vaults takes around 60 minutes, which allows you to fully explore the chambers. However, tour times can vary if they are guided and may run longer.
Guided Tours: The Essential Experience
Guided tours are the best way to explore this fascinating site, with a number of different tour experiences available that are tailored to different interests including:
Historical Tours: Focusing on the history of day-to-day living in Old Town Edinburgh with access to the vaults.
Ghost Tours: For those looking to delve into the dark side of the vaults. Explore haunting tales and ghostly occurrences.
If you’d prefer to take your time and explore the site yourself, you can opt to visit the vaults without a guided tour. Tour operators including GoScotlandTours offer a half day, 45 minute experience where you can explore the historic site and take pictures without a guide.
Is the Real Mary Kings Close the Same as the Edinburgh Vaults?
Both Mary King’s Close and the Edinburgh Vaults offer fascinating glimpses into the rich history of Edinburgh City. However, Mary’s King Close refers to the small alleys located underneath Edinburgh City Chambers on the iconic Royal Mile.
The close is a series of historic streets, frozen in time that were once known as a bustling neighbourhood.
Guided tours shine a light on the captivating lives of people who lived and worked there, allowing an intimate glimpse into life in the 17th century.
Discover Edinburgh’s Top Attractions with The Witchery
Take a journey through time and explore the depths of the Edinburgh Vaults, for a look into the city’s fascinating past. Experience the dark, surreal chambers beneath South Bridge and discover the stories of people who once resided there for a truly astonishing lesson in history, allowing yourself to connect with the beloved city of Edinburgh.
Why not elevate your historical Edinburgh experience and stay at The Witchery by the Castle? A luxurious retreat awaits you to embrace the stories of what came before. Our opulent suites at The Witchery are a haven of bliss, combining irresistible charm with a gothic edge, fitting the theme of your adventure.
Located just a short walk from the Edinburgh Vaults, we can guarantee you a visit that is both magical and memorable. Lose yourself in an ambience that complements the renowned streets of Edinburgh City.
Explore More of the City
Discover more of Edinburgh City, and take an unforgettable trip bursting with history, culture, architecture, and more…
Continue reading:
