About This Tour
From bodysnatching and beheadings to witchcraft and whippings, we share real life stories of crime and punishment from the last 500 years on this self-guided GPS audio tour. Along the way you’ll see major Aberdeen landmarks, from Marischal College to the Mercat Cross, and learn how they were witness to darkest chapters in the city’s history. Scot Free Tours sheds a light on the baffling and often unjust laws of the last five centuries – and reveals that past is not as far away as we think. Thousands of people have loved our 5-star rated live tours and now you can experience them with freedom of an audio guide! The tour plays audio automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline. Start the tour in the app, put your phone in your pocket, and let us guide you around Aberdeen. The total walking distance is 3km and takes about 45 minutes without stopping, but you can pause anytime!
Photo Gallery





TopTours Insights
500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
This self-guided audio tour takes you through the history of crime and punishment in the city, using your smartphone to guide you to key locations and share stories. It's ideal for independent travelers who enjoy historical context and exploring at their own pace without a live guide.
Calculating tour characteristics...
What's Included
What's Not Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
Start outside the Tolbooth Museum on Union Street. Before arrival, install the VoiceMap app and use the code provided on your ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart any time and complete at your own pace.
Special Instructions
VOICEMAP CODE ─── Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code. DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS ─── Once you've received your code, please follow these steps: 1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app 2. Create an account 3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes 4. Enter your code then select Download Now PLEASE NOTE ─── • You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point. • This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next. • When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point. • Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour. SUPPORT ─── For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Tour Operator
VoiceMap Audio Tours
Official supplier for this experience. Bookings are handled directly through Viator with verified partners.
Viator Certified
Trusted local operator
Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 29 verified reviews
Average rating
Guest Reviews Preview
See what other travelers are saying about this experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by VoiceMap Audio Tours, a local sightseeing provider.
What's included?
This tour includes Lifetime access to this tour in English, VoiceMap app for Android and iOS, and Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata . All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 0.8 hours to 2.3 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. All necessary equipment is provided.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
What to expect on this tour?
This sightseeing experience lasts approximately 0.8 hours to 2.3 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Lifetime access to this tour in English and more.
Ready to Go?
Book 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Secure your spot instantly through Viator and receive flexible cancellation options plus verified customer support.
Trusted partner • Instant confirmation
