Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Discover Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

FIFA World Cup 2026

Cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and find information about fan zones in Scotland, stadium tours and more.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Edinburgh Festivals

Discover Edinburgh's summer festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Less than 100 days to go until 11 days of world-class action across the city, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations together to compete across 10 sports.

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Start planning your summer break

Witness Scotland step into summer, with longer days and plenty of experiences to enjoy from coastal walks to fun exhibitions.

Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.

Scotland's islands

Find out about the hundreds of islands in Scotland including Arran, Lewis, Skye, Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Plan the perfect island getaway today.

Scottish music festivals

Find out what’s happening in Scotland this year

The best tours of Scotland - luxury & scenic tours

Tour Scotland at your own pace with these fantastic ideas.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

As seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Get the Scotland newsletter

Thunderdices Edinburgh Old Town private tour

© Thunderdices

Edinburgh: History, Murder, and Mysteries in Old Town private guided tour in English or French

From monarchs to common folk, Edinburgh's Old Town teems with history, mysteries, ghosts and clandestine tales waiting to be uncovered!

Discover Castle Hill on this 2-hour tour led by our expert guide, immersing yourself step by step in the rich tapestry of Edinburgh's Old Town history. Walk inside hidden gems and atmospheric closes, tracing the path of Mary Stuart from Holyrood Palace to the medieval fortress, and delve into the daily lives of Edinburgh's inhabitants across the ages. Encounter captivating anecdotes and meet the characters who have woven the fabric of the city's legends and lore.

Tour Highlights:

  • Royal Mile: start your tour near Holyrood Palace, then walk up the iconic Royal Mile, a medieval artery pulsating with historical significance. Hear tales of bustling markets, regal processions, and pivotal events that have shaped Edinburgh's dynamic Old Town.
  • St. Giles' Cathedral: Immerse yourself in the sacred aura of St. Giles' Cathedral, an architectural marvel and spiritual nucleus. Delve into its exquisite interior and grasp its pivotal role in Scotland's religious narrative.
  • Closes and Wynds: Embark on a journey through concealed closes and wynds, narrow alleyways veiled in the shadows of Edinburgh's past. Feel the resonance of medieval existence as you navigate these evocative passages.
  • Canongate Kirkyard: Wander amidst the eerie allure of Canongate Kirkyard, a graveyard steeped in historical intrigue. Encounter accounts of notable figures and grim tales of murder.

Your tour includes:

  • A 2h30 private guided exploration.

Departure Meeting point: 

In front of Scottish Parliament Building, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP

COVID-19 information

Safe Travels

This business has confirmed that they have implemented, and will ensure ongoing compliance with, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols. The Safe Travels stamp is based on self-assessment and it is not a certification.

From £25 per adult

Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

January — December

Book now

Contact details

Thunderdices

6/11 Orwell Terrace
Edinburgh
Lothian
United Kingdom
EH11 2DZ
View tour provider details

Tour information

Starting

  • Edinburgh - City Centre

Length

2Hours

Transport

  • Walking

Type

  • Bespoke
  • Large Group (31+)
  • Medium Group (17-30)
  • Private
  • Small Group (1-16)

Languages

  • English
  • French

Themes

  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Castles
  • City
  • Crime
  • Family
  • Film and TV
  • Ghosts and Supernatural
  • History

Tour prices

From £25 Per Adult

Book now

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Tour Stops

Thunderdices

Tour company information

Thunderdices

At Thunderdices we offer private tours and activities in Scotland with a storytelling twist. Discover the hidden myths and legends during tours off the beaten path: from the mysteries of Surgeon Hall which inspired Conan Doyle when he created Sherlock Holmes, to the places which inspired JK Rowling when she created Harry Potter. Be a wizard during hot chocolate potion workshops, alchemy workshops, or even wand-making workshops! Do you want to push this further and play D&D in a templar underground cave system or castle? We can set this up for you as part of our customised experiences.

Social Channels

Visit Thunderdices

Opening times

Monday to Sunday 10:00 to 22:00

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The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Discover Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

FIFA World Cup 2026

Cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and find information about fan zones in Scotland, stadium tours and more.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Edinburgh Festivals

Discover Edinburgh's summer festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Less than 100 days to go until 11 days of world-class action across the city, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations together to compete across 10 sports.

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Start planning your summer break

Witness Scotland step into summer, with longer days and plenty of experiences to enjoy from coastal walks to fun exhibitions.

Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.

Scotland's islands

Find out about the hundreds of islands in Scotland including Arran, Lewis, Skye, Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Plan the perfect island getaway today.

Scottish music festivals

Find out what’s happening in Scotland this year

The best tours of Scotland - luxury & scenic tours

Tour Scotland at your own pace with these fantastic ideas.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

As seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Get the Scotland newsletter