Best Escape Room for Edinburgh Locals
Experience your city’s dark history like never before!
Whether you’re Edinburgh born-and-bred, or new to the city, Escape The Past offers Edinburgh locals a window into their city’s rich and fascinating history through our immersive escape room experiences.
Whether you’re following the Trail of Burke & Hare through the cobbled streets of the old town and viewing everyday landmarks in a whole new light, or entering the basement study of a grave-robbing anatomist - our immersive experiences shine a light into hidden corners of Edinburgh’s past. Can you solve the puzzles, unravel the mysteries, and prove you really know Auld Reekie?
Why our Escape Rooms are perfect for Edinburgh Residents:
Whether you're looking for an alternative venue date night, a fun group activity, a unique birthday party venue or just something different to do at the weekend, Escape The Past is made for locals who want to experience their city’s history in an immersive and engaging way.
Not Just for Tourists
Our escape games go deeper than the tartan-wizard-kitsch, instead delving into real stories from Edinburgh’s past - from body snatchers to scheming murderers - all expertly researched and recreated with exceptional attention to detail.
Perfect Edinburgh Night Out
Looking for fun with friends? Work social? Something different to break the routine? Tackle a historical mystery that’ll have everyone talking about it long after it ends...
Ideal for Entertaining Visitors
Want to impress visitors with a fun and engaging Edinburgh activity? Our award winning, 5-star rated escape rooms and outdoor escape rooms are just the ticket.
Private, Small-Group Activity
We never combine groups with strangers. Just your people, your brains, and one hour to escape.
New experiences launching regularly
We’re always working on new historical experiences. Already escaped indoors? Try the Trail of Burke & Hare - our self-guided puzzle walk through the Old Town. Great for locals who want to see their familiar city streets in a whole new way.
Escape Rooms for Edinburgh Locals:
The Anatomist
DURATION:
1 hour
PLAYERS:
2-8
DIFFICULTY:
3/5
AGES:
12+*
A multi-award winning escape game set on the edge of Edinburgh's old surgical district. Descend into a world of grave robbery, mystery and malpractice as you enter the study of a 19th century anatomist to unearth a thrilling mystery...
Learn MoreThe Deacon's Cabinet
DURATION:
1 hour
PLAYERS:
2-6
DIFFICULTY:
4/5
AGES:
10+*
A historical heist escape room which challenges you to outsmart the infamous Deacon William Brodie - Edinburgh's favourite villain, and the inspiration for Jekyll & Hyde. Can you unlock the mysteries of The Deacon's cabinet and discover his ill-gotten fortune before the noose tightens?
Learn MoreA Trail of Burke & Hare
DURATION:
2 hours
PLAYERS:
2-30
DIFFICULTY:
2/5
AGES:
8+*
A body has been discovered in The Cowgate with wounds eerily reminiscent of a dark period of Edinburgh’s past… The path ahead descends through the city's very darkest history.
Follow the trail, decipher the clues and, if you dare, follow in the bloody footsteps of Edinburgh's infamous 19th century serial killers: Burke and Hare...
What Edinburgh Residents say:
“The best in Edinburgh. Great theme, puzzles were just challenging enough, and the game keeper was very friendly and fun. Highly recommended.”
Mr Chi. | GOOGLE REVIEWS
“Amazing game master, super original puzzles and amazing decor ! We were really happy with this escape room. :) recommend vividly !.”
Sarah B. | GOOGLE REVIEWS
“Best escape room I've played in Edinburgh! Immersive, historical, great puzzles and decors. Thank you Beth for the amazing experience! We recommend it 100%, for beginners as well as for confirmed players."
Lisa J. | GOOGLE REVIEWS
Edinburgh locals ask...
Where exactly are you located?
We’re at 25 Nicolson Square in the city’s old surgical district on the edge of the city centre, just a few minutes from the Royal Mile and the Cowgate and easily reached on foot from Waverley.
Do you offer discounts for locals?
Please check out our discounts page for all our current offers. If you’re booking multiple rooms for a large group, feel free to contact us to see what we can offer.
Can we make a night of it?
Absolutely! While we don’t have a bar on site, we’re surrounded by pubs, bars, and excellent food spots. Escape first, celebrate after!
How difficult is it?
Our escape rooms are designed to provide a moderate challenge but one which your group should be able to overcome. Need help? Our dedicated team of gamesmasters are always on hand to offer extra clues. Looking for an easier option that’s fun but less intense? Try our Trail of Burke & Hare.
Can we come back again?
Definitely. Each of our rooms tells a different story from Edinburgh’s past so locals often come back looking for more. We release new challenges and experiences on a semi-regular basis. Join our mailing list and follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Can we book on the day?
We always recommend booking as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment, particularly at weekends or during holidays. However, we often have a small number of places available on the day, so it’s always worth checking our latest availability or contacting us and we'll try to accommodate you!
Do you offer Gift Vouchers?
We do! We're the perfect gift idea for Edinburgh locals. You can view purchase our gift vouchers here.
What’s your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
We understand that plans can change, we just ask for at least 48 hours notice to reschedule a booking. For full details, take a look at our Terms & Conditions.
Got another question? Feel free to Contact us.
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