The Dark Side of Edinburgh

If you want a mundane, humdrum history walk, this is not the tour for you. But… if you want to learn what the tourist industry leaves out? The hidden, gruesome crimes and punishments? The long forgotten twisted, sadistic characters? The thousands of lives painfully lost in the cruel grip of Edinburgh’s past? Maybe you are brave enough to learn the truth.

The Dark Side of Glasgow

Recently named ‘Europe’s murder capital’ and voted the ‘UK’s friendliest city’ in the same week! It’s fair to say Glasgow is a confusing city, which means you need a true Weegie to show you the ropes. Follow me and we’ll explore famous landmarks and gritty street art, while I tell you of Glasgow’s crime and macabre past! Its ties to the slave trade, its gangs, its godfathers, its ghosts, and its twisted serial killers!

Private Tours

The Dark Side Tours are happy to provide private, bespoke experiences for all occasions. In the past we have performed personalised Work Christmas Parties, Hen Dos and tailored one to ones for groups who want our guides all to themselves. For any questions or requests please don’t hesitate to contact us.

What People Say About Us

Aaron

September 2023

Funny and unique way exploring Glasgow! You’ll get a glimpse of this city’s complex history told in a funny and very entertaining way! Rhona is a great host and she’ll make sure you have a good time in her city. Super recommended!

Elsy

July 2023

Highly recommend this tour, Madam Mckinnon, had us engaged throughout, 2 hours flew by! We learned so much about the history of Edinburgh and left us with wanting to learn more! Book this tour before it’s too late!

Olivia

November 2023

Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable & gave us a great experience, answering our questions thoroughly, and was absolutely captivating by his stories. He also shared with us the best places for food, drink, and entertainment. 

Laura

July 2023

If you’re thinking of booking this tour, just do it! Rhona was thoughtful,  well researched, and added personal stories along the way as only a true local could. The time flew by and I enjoyed learning about the city. Highly recommend!

Stella

October 2023

Our guide was a fantastic storyteller! It was really entertaining as well informative. He also gave advice on what else to visit/eat/see while you’re in the city.

I’d definitely recommend this experience.

About

The Dark Side Tours was founded 5 years ago by Rhona Mackay.

Glasgow born and raised but an Edinburgh local for over 7 years. Whilst studying an honours degree in Acting and English Literature, she became obsessed with Scottish history (particularly the dark bits!) Working as a freelance actor, writer and teacher, Rhona employs her creative talents to ensure both the tour scripts and characters provide the best experience for those bewitched by the Dark Side of these great Scottish cities. 

Glasgow

Edinburgh

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