The Headless Horseman in Edinburgh: Self-guided walking tour game

Edinburgh , Scotland

The Headless Horseman in Edinburgh: Self-guided walking tour game

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A spooky, self-guided walking tour game through central Edinburgh.

You have made new friends online. They have found an old journal and are trying to solve the mysterious disappearance of its owner. The old notes describe a Headless Horseman haunting Edinburgh. Maybe the journal also offers the clues needed to find out what happened? You are invited to join an investigation, but one of your new friends never shows up at your agreed meeting spot. Follow clues through Edinburgh. Participate in the story in each location through gamification. Examine mysterious items and crack codes while you explore the city's historical surroundings.

This audio walking tour game is self-guided via a GPS-based app downloaded to your phone. When you buy the tour you'll receive an email with instructions on how to download the app which serves as your guide and narrator. Listen to the story while you walk, and solve puzzles in each location. You can start, pause and end the tour when you want.

Available options

The Headless Horseman in Edinburgh: Self-guided walking tour game

What's included

The StoryTourist App

Audio guide

This tour belongs to you after purchase, you can use it any time you want.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This self-guided walking tour game starts by the Anchor Close alley. Once you are there, open the app and start the Headless Horseman walking tour game.

You have come to Anchor Close to meet two people you've gotten to know through an online ghost hunter forum. They have invited you to join an investigation of the 200-year-old disappearance of Ichabod Crane. But, as you stand waiting, only one of your new friends show up at the alley...

Stop 2

You and your companion head over to the building in James' Court where Ichabod once lived, to see if you can find clues to his disappearance, and maybe find your friend.

Some of the buildings in James’ court date back to the 16th century. The close has been the home of Scottish writer James Boswell and 18th century philosopher David Hume.

Stop 3

You follow a lead from Ichabod's journal and visit the Grassmarket square. While in the square, you examine some of Ichabod's belongings.

You go to the Greyfriar's Bobby statue and meet a witness, who had a scary encounter with the Headless Horseman.

According to legend, the dog Greyfriars Bobby was so loyal to his late master, nightwatchman John Gray, that he spent the rest of his life by his grave at the haunted Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Stop 5

Walk past Edinburgh's Old College University, and make a stop under a bridge to search for supernatural activity.

Your friend is still missing, but you are desperately trying to find her. A passage of Ichabod's journal leads to the old church Tron Kirk. In 1697, 18-year-old student Thomas Aikenhead ridiculed the Bible outside Tron Kirk. He became the last person in Scotland to be executed for blasphemy.

You reach the St Patrick's church. This seems to be the last location where Ichabod was seen, and traces from your friend lead you here as well.

What will you discover outside the church that might clear up both disappearances?

What's not included

A live guide

A smartphone and headphones (bring your own)

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Since this is a self-guided walking tour, there will be no guide to meet you. Instead, you go to the starting point, open the mobile app on your phone and start the tour. The starting point of this tour is located by the High Street entrance of the Anchor Close alley in Edinburgh.

Important notes

IMPORTANT - Check your email, including your spam folder. StoryTourist has sent you an email with instructions on how to redeem your ticket(s), and how to download and login to the StoryTourist app. If you need assistance, please reach out to us at info@storytourist.com or call us at +46720427346.

For the tour: Bring a fully charged phone, with the StoryTourist app and the tour already downloaded, to the tour starting point at the High Street entrance to Anchor Close. Make sure to download the app and tour while connected to Wi-Fi . For the best possible listening experience, bring headphones, and if your smartphone has reduced battery capacity, consider bringing a power bank.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture