Our Guide to Halloween in Edinburgh 2024

Edinburgh, with its ancient cobbled streets, towering Gothic architecture, and rich history of ghost stories, is the perfect destination to experience Halloween.

Whether you’re seeking hair-raising scares, eerie tours, or family-friendly fun, the city offers something for everyone during this spine-chilling season. Here’s how you can make the most of Halloween in Edinburgh:

1. Ghost Tours: Explore Edinburgh’s Dark Past

No Halloween visit to Edinburgh is complete without diving into the city’s ghostly history. Wander the streets where legends of hauntings and unsolved mysteries abound.

• Mercat Tours: One of the most popular ghost tours, Mercat takes you through the historic vaults beneath the city, recounting tales of restless spirits.
• The Real Mary King’s Close: This underground street, preserved from the 17th century, is said to be haunted by former residents who suffered during the plague. The guided tour brings their eerie stories to life.
• City of the Dead Tours: Explore Greyfriars Kirkyard, known as one of the most haunted graveyards in the world, and hear the terrifying tale of the Mackenzie Poltergeist.

2. Halloween at Edinburgh Dungeons

For thrill-seekers, the Edinburgh Dungeons offer an immersive experience into the dark history of the city. This Halloween, expect extra scares with live actors, terrifying sets, and interactive storytelling. The Dungeon’s special Halloween shows provide an unforgettable experience full of frights and fun.

3. Samhuinn Fire Festival

Celebrate Halloween in its ancient Celtic form at the Samhuinn Fire Festival, held on the night of October 31st. This spectacular performance is a re-imagining of the Celtic New Year, where the summer gives way to the darkness of winter. Expect breathtaking fire displays, drumming, and immersive storytelling along the Royal Mile, all of which culminate in a mesmerizing battle between summer and winter.

4. Spooky Cinema and Theatre

If you prefer your frights on screen or stage, Edinburgh offers plenty of options to enjoy Halloween-themed films and plays.

• Dominion Cinema: Get into the spooky spirit with special showings of classic horror films.
• Theatre Performances: Local theatres often run special Halloween-themed productions, so keep an eye on the listings for spooky plays or immersive performances.

5. Pumpkin Picking and Carving

For those looking for a more family-friendly or low-key Halloween experience, visit local farms like Craigie’s Farm or East Links Family Park for pumpkin picking. After choosing the perfect pumpkin, join in on carving workshops or take it home to create your own Halloween masterpiece.

6. Haunted Edinburgh Pub Crawls

Combine Edinburgh’s spooky side with its famous pub culture by joining a haunted pub crawl. You’ll visit some of the city’s most atmospheric bars, many of which have their own haunted histories.

• The Banshee Labyrinth: Known as Scotland’s most haunted pub, it’s said to be inhabited by several spirits. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink and share ghost stories.
• Whistle Binkies: Beneath the city’s streets, this pub is known for its eerie atmosphere and alleged hauntings.

7. Costume Parties and Club Nights

Many bars and clubs across the city host Halloween parties and themed nights. Dress up in your scariest costume and dance the night away. Check out venues like The Bongo Club, Cabaret Voltaire, or The Liquid Room for themed club nights that keep the Halloween spirit alive until the early hours.

8. Visit a Haunted Castle

For a truly atmospheric experience, visit one of the many castles around Edinburgh with haunted reputations.

• Edinburgh Castle: Said to be haunted by former prisoners and soldiers, this iconic landmark offers eerie evening tours during Halloween.
• Lauriston Castle: Rumored to be haunted by former residents, Lauriston Castle is another spooky destination to explore in the Halloween season.

9. Halloween Events at Edinburgh Zoo

For a more light-hearted and family-friendly experience, visit Edinburgh Zoo for their Halloween events. From spooky trails and pumpkin carving to nocturnal animal encounters, it’s a fun way to celebrate Halloween with little ones.

10. Shopping for Spooky Souvenirs

Take a stroll down Victoria Street, which inspired Diagon Alley from Harry Potter, and visit the many quirky shops selling Halloween-themed items, costumes, and spooky souvenirs.

Whether you’re a fan of ghostly tales, theatrical performances, family fun, or just want to explore the city’s mysterious history, Edinburgh is the place to be for Halloween. With events ranging from terrifying tours to dazzling fire festivals, Halloween in Edinburgh promises to be an unforgettable experience. So, grab your costume, gather your courage, and get ready to explore the spooky side of Scotland’s capital!

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