Edinburgh’s Most Haunted Places
Welcome to the dark and mysterious side of Scotland’s capital 👻
Known for its rich history and captivating landmarks, Edinburgh is also famous for its eerie tales and ghostly encounters. From shadowy figures wandering the ancient streets to haunted castles with tragic pasts, Edinburgh’s most haunted places are brimming with supernatural lore.
In this guide, we will explore some of the city’s spookiest spots. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or simply curious about the paranormal, these haunted locations are sure to give you chills and a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh’s haunted legacy. Prepare to discover the city’s ghostly secrets that have captivated visitors and locals for centuries!
Greyfriars Kirkyard
26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE
Greyfriars Kirkyard is home to one of Edinburgh’s most notorious hauntings, the Mackenzie Poltergeist. Sir George Mackenzie, known as “Bloody Mackenzie,” was responsible for the brutal persecution of the Covenanters in the 17th century. His tomb is said to be haunted, with many visitors reporting attacks, fainting, and bruises after visiting the Black Mausoleum. Additionally, the graveyard is linked to the famous story of Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave for years 🪦
- Historical Significance:
It saw the signing of the 1638 National Covenant of the Covenanters, a militant religious and political movement. After their defeat, some 1,200 Covenanters were imprisoned in the churchyard in conditions so brutal only a few hundred made it out alive.
- Tours Available: Yes, the Harry Potter walking tour which is included in the Edinburgh City Pass goes through this graveyard as some of the tombstones were thought to have inspired some of the characters names!
The Vaults
Niddry St S, Edinburgh EH1 1NS
Builders constructed the South Bridge Vaults beneath Edinburgh’s streets in the late 18th century as storage spaces for the businesses above. However, they quickly fell into disrepair and became a slum inhabited by the city’s poorest citizens, as well as criminals and body snatchers. Paranormal activity is rampant here, with reports of strange noises, cold spots, and ghostly figures. One particularly aggressive spirit, known as Mr. Boots, is said to shove visitors and stalk them through the vaults.
- Historical Significance: Burke and Hare allegedly killed 16 people and stashed the bodies in the tunnels. Later they sole them to a surgeon for dissection in anatomy lectures.
- Tours Available?: Yes! This experience is included with Edinburgh City Pass – more information here.
West Bow House of Horrors
West Bow, Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1
The infamous West Bow was once home to Major Thomas Weir, a deeply religious man who, in the 17th century, confessed to practicing witchcraft, incest, and other horrifying acts. Following his confession, authorities executed Weir and his sister, but locals believe his house remained cursed. For many years, people reported strange sounds and apparitions from the property. Although they eventually demolished it, the site’s haunted reputation lives on. Furthermore, reports of dark figures and strange disturbances remain common in the area.
- Historical Significance: Major Weir’s story is one of Edinburgh’s most terrifying tales. People avoided his house for years, and even now, locals speak of the lingering curse tied to this historic street.
- Tours Available: No, the house no longer exists but there are ghost tours which often include stories about West Bow
Craigmillar Castle 🏰
Craigmillar Castle Rd, Edinburgh EH16 4SY
Edinburgh’s hidden castle is often overshadowed by the famous Edinburgh Castle, but is also steeped in dark history and eerie tales. Dating back to the 14th century, this historic ruin was once a royal residence. Most famously, it served as a retreat for Mary, Queen of Scots, who stayed here following the murder of her secretary, David Rizzio. The castle’s connections to political intrigue, murders, and imprisonment have given rise to various ghostly stories. Visitors often report sightings of a mysterious “Grey Lady” who roams the grounds. Strange noises, cold drafts, and the feeling of being watched are commonly experienced by those who explore its deserted rooms and winding staircases.
- Historical Significance: Aside from its ghostly legends, Craigmillar Castle played a vital role in Scottish history. It was a stronghold during the 15th century and became entangled in the power struggles of the monarchy, including the infamous Craigmillar Bond, a conspiracy to murder Mary’s husband, Lord Darnley.
- Tours Available: You can visit Craigmillar Castle with your Edinburgh City Pass!
The Georgian House
7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4DR, Scotland
The Georgian House, located in Edinburgh’s prestigious New Town, is an elegant 18th-century townhouse with a hidden spooky side. While its historical focus is more on the grandeur of Georgian living, there have been reports of unexplained phenomena. Visitors and staff have mentioned experiencing sudden cold spots, hearing faint footsteps on the staircases, and seeing shadowy figures in the upper rooms. Some believe that the spirits of former residents, perhaps servants or the wealthy inhabitants, linger in the house. The building’s rich history and preservation of old-world charm provide the perfect setting for these ghostly encounters.
- Historical Significance: Built in 1796, The Georgian House is an outstanding example of Georgian architecture and offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Edinburgh’s upper class during the 18th and 19th centuries. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect its original period style, with authentic furnishings, artwork, and decor. Its history is intertwined with Edinburgh’s rise as a cultural and intellectual hub during the Enlightenment era.
- Tours Available: You can visit the Georgian House as part of your Edinburgh City Pass.
Brodies Close
207 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, Scotland
Deacon William Brodie, a respected craftsman by day and burglar by night, is linked to Brodie’s Close. His double life ended tragically when authorities caught and executed him in 1788. Despite his death, locals say his ghost lingers in the area, still trying to escape justice. Visitors often report feeling cold spots, hearing strange noises, and sensing that someone is watching them
- Historical Significance: Deacon Brodie’s story of hypocrisy and crime inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous novel The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. A restaurant and bar now occupy his former residence, but the area still retains its eerie atmosphere.
- Tours Available: Brodies is often included in Edinburgh Ghost Tours. You can also visit the Deacon’s House Cafe which is at Brodie’s Close.
Others in the running for the best brunch spot in Edinburgh…
- Laila Restaurant & Bar – 1 Antigua St, Edinburgh EH1 3NH
- Urban Angel – 121 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ
- Milk – 232 Morrison St, Edinburgh EH3 8EA
- The Scran & Scallie – 1 Comely Bank Rd, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1DT
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