
Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 75 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour worth booking?
Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour is a 1.5-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $123 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 75 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (75)
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- From
- $123 per person
The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour is perfect for everyone who wants to know more about Scottish history. The people buried within the Kirkyard made Edinburgh what it was. We'll share some of the most important, most interesting and most surprising stories about these rather fascinating people. And we'll do this in an entertaining, professional and respectful manner. Greyfriars is a fascinating place that has links to some incredible stories from Scotland’s history (not 'just' Edinburgh's history). Their stories are the stories of Edinburgh. You’ll learn about these characters as you stand only inches away from where their bodies lie buried. Hear the stories behind martyred Covenanters, an amusing artist, an infamous ghost, grave robbers, the Irish murderers Burke and Hare, a tortured spy and, of course, the devoted Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Are you ready to ‘meet’ the ‘Dead of Old Edinburgh’?
What you get
About this experience
The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour is perfect for everyone who wants to know more about Scottish history. The people buried within the Kirkyard made Edinburgh what it was. We'll share some of the most important, most interesting and most surprising stories about these rather fascinating people. And we'll do this in an entertaining, professional and respectful manner. Greyfriars is a fascinating place that has links to some incredible stories from Scotland’s history (not 'just' Edinburgh's history). Their stories are the stories of Edinburgh. You’ll learn about these characters as you stand only inches away from where their bodies lie buried. Hear the stories behind martyred Covenanters, an amusing artist, an infamous ghost, grave robbers, the Irish murderers Burke and Hare, a tortured spy and, of course, the devoted Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Are you ready to ‘meet’ the ‘Dead of Old Edinburgh’?
What's included
Included
- Local guide
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Greyfriars Kirk
This entire tour takes place within the historic burial ground. We don't visit the Kirk itself, although we recommend guests visit this wonderful building during their visit to Edinburgh.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Just inside the main entrance, next to the grave of Greyfriars Bobby (the pink headstone which you see as soon as you enter the Kirkyard).
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Just inside the main entrance, next to the grave of Greyfriars Bobby (the pink headstone which you see as soon as you enter the Kirkyard).
Options you can book
Private Tour for 6-10 people
Private Tour for 3-5 people
Private Tour for 2 people
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Historic Edinburgh Tours
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Due to uneven surfaces. we will try to make alterations for wheelchair users.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 75 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
75 verified traveler reviews for Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful tour of Greyfriars Kirk with Robert
We had a wonderful tour of Greyfriars Kirk with Robert. We was such a knowledgable tour guide, with a lot of humor. We could easily spend a day in the graveyard with him learning about the people, monuments, and other lore.
via Tripadvisor
Robert was wonderful
Robert was incredibly knowledgeable and tailored the tour to our interests. His historical knowledge of the cemetery was incredible. He spent extra time with us and even took us over to the museum to show us a pertinent exhibit!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for leaving this kind review. Also, thanks so much for being so engaged with a place I think is fascinating; I really appreciated it. I hope you had a wonderful time in the UK. Best wishes, Robert
via Tripadvisor
Thanks from down under
We thoroughly enjoyed our personalised tour with Robert. He was friendly and accommodating, combining his subject knowledge with an interesting and informative tour. Thank you, we are grateful for this experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you for booking with me, and for leaving such a lovely review. The Greyfriars Kirkyard tour is one of my favourites, but it is very specialised. I'm so glad that you enjoyed it. I hope you both had an enjoyable time in Scotland, and a safe return journey. Best wishes, Robert
via Tripadvisor
Book it! This was an amazing tour!
The BEST tour we have had in awhile. Robert was amazing and very knowlegeable. He worked the tour toward our intrests and was great with all ages.
Response from the operator: Thank you for these kind words! I really appreciate the 'all ages' comment - I always try my best with this, so it's lovely to see this in a review. I hope you all had a lovely time in Scotland. Best wishes, Robert
via Tripadvisor
Amazing tour of Greyfriars Kirkyard
Terrific tour with Robert. The history tour of the Greyfriars Kirkyard was interesting and informative. Thanks for leading such an amazing and fun tour.
Response from the operator: Thank you for this really kind review (and one which I think you're writing whilst still on vacation!). It was a pleasure to meet you and to take you both around the Kirkyard. Best wishes, and safe travels home. Yours, Robert
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $123 to $140
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 26
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour cost?
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Prices start at $123 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour take?
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Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 75 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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Around 26 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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Included: Local guide. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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Just inside the main entrance, next to the grave of Greyfriars Bobby (the pink headstone which you see as soon as you enter the Kirkyard). Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Due to uneven surfaces. we will try to make alterations for wheelchair users. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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Across 75 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for Private Greyfriars Kirkyard history tour?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Private Tour for 6-10 people, Private Tour for 3-5 people, Private Tour for 2 people. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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