Edinburgh: Witches, Trials, and Truth Small-Group Tour｜United Kingdom

New for 2026:

Edinburgh’s Master Storytellers, Mercat Tours, are redefining the walking tour, promising to enrich and deepen your connection with Edinburgh’s people and its past far beyond your visit.

Take the Story Home: evoke the memories:
- Listen to the tour playlist
- Light your Remembrance Candle

Accused, tried, and tortured. Step into Scotland’s shadowy past on this immersive five-star Edinburgh history tour. Follow in the final tragic footsteps of those condemned as ‘witches’ and bear witness to the devastating truth.

You’ll be transported back to a dark time ruled by a crazed king and his obsession with ‘otherworldly phenomenon’. Under the spell of a master storyteller you’re invited to listen carefully and perhaps think again...

Persecution of the weak, the wise and skilled? Roused by fear and envy? Inflamed by religious zeal?

Feel the tension rise as you journey through Edinburgh’s Old Town, along ancient cobbled closes and hidden alleyways. With the conjured scent of smoke in the air and the echoes of crackling flames, stand upon the Castle Esplanade — the site where hundreds burned at the stake.

Hunted and hanged. Around 2,500 people were executed for witchcraft in Scotland across two centuries. Agnes, Geilis, Janet, John… Learn names and hear stories of the women, and men, accused of sorcery. Alleged psychics, hexers, and communicators with the devil coerced into confession. Our stories will begin with the accusations, then the trials and lead to the tragic fate suffered by many.

History and Hysteria: Their Trials and Truth Told
There was no justice in court, nor truth in tribunals for accused ‘witches’. On this tour, our award-winning master Storytellers shine a light on the truth behind the trials and the real reasons behind the witch crazes that swept like a plague for centuries, across Scotland and beyond.

The past is calling. Will you bear witness?

As a certified B Corporation, we're dedicated to responsible tourism practices that benefit our community and environment.

Join an unrivalled journey into Edinburgh's past, engaging all the senses to create a truly memorable experience that lasts long after your visit.