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Top 14 Haunted Spots in Edinburgh That Might Give You Jump Scares
So, my friend and I decided to join a ghost tour—you know, for the laughs and thrills, thinking we’re that brave. Anyway, we’re wandering through these dark alleys, and as the tour guide started to tell ghost stories, I could feel my bravado shrink.
Long story short, I ended up clutching my friend’s arm so tightly that she claimed the ghost of her circulation still haunts her to this day (plus that “Grey Lady”).
And now that you’re up for some spine-chilling fun like that, I’ve listed down some of Edinburgh’s haunted places. Trust me, you’ll want to know where to find these spooks, so read on!
Edinburgh Castle
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Website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
Address: Castlehill
Contact details: +44 131 225 9846
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Edinburgh Castle isn’t just famous for its grandeur and epic views. Nah, it’s also known for a few spectral tenants who never quite left.
There have been countless reports of ghostly drummers here with no heads, phantom prisoners, and even spirits of French prisoners from the Seven Years’ War having a stroll. Now, the castle is massive, so you’ll want to cover a lot of ground.
But if you’re hunting for ghostly encounters, hang around the dungeons and vaults where many prisoners met their end. Weirdly enough, that’s where people have felt sudden cold spots and whispers with no apparent source.
Pro tip:
Remember to hit the castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to dodge the tourist swarm. The quieter it is, the more likely you are to pick up on the creepy vibes or even catch a glimpse of the supernatural residents.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery
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Website: https://greyfriarskirk.com/visit/kirkyard/
Address: 26A Candlemaker Row
Contact details: +44 131 664 4314
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Edinburgh’s most famous cemeteries and has been the resting place of many notable Scots since the 16th century. Notorious for its “Mackenzie Poltergeist,” the spirit of Sir George Mackenzie has been known to cause mischief.
Like unexplained bruises and scratches, and yes, you read that right—actual physical marks. You may actually look out for the Black Mausoleum, Mackenzie’s main haunt.
This place has a creepy atmosphere, especially under the moonlight. Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who supposedly guarded his master’s grave, adds a bit of warmth to the otherwise spine-tingling vibe.
Pro tip:
Signing up for one of the late-night tours gets you more spooky stories and less crowd stress. Plus, bring a flashlight and a good friend to grab onto (preferably someone you won’t mind embarrassing yourself in front of).
The Real Mary King’s Close
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Website: https://realmarykingsclose.com/
Address: 2 Warriston’s Cl.
Contact details: +44 131 225 0672
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Once a bustling part of the city, the Real Mary King’s Close was sealed off due to plague outbreaks. Now, this underground labyrinth is a hotbed for ghost sightings.
The tour guides here are fantastic storytellers who weave tales of plague victims, murder, and hauntings. The story of Annie, a young girl who haunts one of the rooms after being abandoned and dying of the plague, is particularly heart-wrenching.
Beyond the ghost tales, what you’ll find here is a glimpse into the daily lives of Edinburgh’s citizens from centuries ago. The guided tour takes you through preserved streets and rooms, giving you a visceral sense of what it was like to live underground.
Pro tip:
Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid the disappointment of sold-out tours. Oh, and wear comfy shoes; those cobblestones aren’t kind to your feet, and you don’t want to hobble around while dodging ghostly apparitions.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
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Website: https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/en/
Address: 31 Market Place
Contact details: +44 131 240 1041
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM
The Edinburgh Dungeon is not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re into all things spooky and gruesome, this place is pure gold. It’s like an immersive horror show with live actors, special effects, and really well-done sets.
Here, you’ll come face-to-face with notorious characters like Burke and Hare, the infamous body snatchers. You’ll also get the chance to experience the terror of the city’s old witch trials.
The boat ride through murky waters and the mirror maze filled with ghostly apparitions are especially chilling. The Dungeon also does a great job at making you part of the story, so be prepared for some audience participation.
Pro tip:
FYI, the ride’s pretty dark (both metaphorically and literally), so brace yourself for twists and turns you won’t see coming.
The Royal Mile
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Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/royal-mile-and-grassmarket-p918401
Address: High St.
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is jam-packed with centuries of history, and trust me, some of it refuses to stay in the past. Ghostly apparitions, eerie shadows, and unexplained noises are just the beginning.
Here, you might bump into the infamous Old Jock, the castle’s ghostly head warden. You might also hear the tortured cries of those who were imprisoned in the tollbooth.
While you’re roaming the mile, keep an ear out for echoing footsteps with no apparent source and cold breezes that seem to come out of nowhere. Many report feeling like they’re being watched, even when the streets are bustling.
Pro tip:
Remember to slip into one of the smaller alleyways (known as “closes”) leading off the Royal Mile for a less crowded yet equally haunting experience.
And while you’re at it, grab a friend who’s brave enough for a late-night stroll—trust me, you won’t want to do this alone.
The Banshee Labyrinth
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Website: http://www.thebansheelabyrinth.com/
Address: 29-35 Niddry St.
Contact details: +441315588209
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 7 PM to 3 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 3 AM
Often regarded as Edinburgh’s most haunted pub, The Banshee Labyrinth is built into the ancient vaults of the city. Here, one of the famous tales is of a little girl named Molly, who is said to haunt the old tunnels and staircases.
Visitors have often reported hearing her giggles or even spotted her running around. Beyond the ghostly encounters, the venue also features ghost-themed events like paranormal investigations and haunted tours.
Moreover, if you’re thinking of grabbing a drink, this place has got you covered with an extensive menu of craft beers and spirits. Plus, the labyrinthine setup adds a quirky twist to your night out.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to check out the underground cinema room, where many have felt sudden drops in temperature or a light touch on the shoulder.
South Bridge Vaults
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Website: http://www.auldreekietours.com/
Address: 30 South Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 557 4700
Operating hours:
- Monday – 3 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Built in the late 18th century, the South Bridge Vaults are a series of underground chambers that were initially used for business storage. Not long after that, they became a hub for illicit activities, like illegal gambling, unspeakable crimes, and slum dwellings.
Then there’s this story about a spirit named Mr. Boots, notorious for his loud, echoing footsteps and having even been reported to throw stones at visitors! Another famous one is ‘the Watcher,’ a presence often felt more than seen.
Aside from that, you can keep an eye out for Maggie’s room; legend has it, she was a former resident who met a tragic end and remains tied here. Furthermore, tour guides provide historical context, but don’t be surprised if they often mix in a few ghost stories.
Pro tip:
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight. The uneven floors and dark corners can be tricky to navigate, especially if you’re easily spooked!
Edinburgh Playhouse
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Website: https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/edinburgh-playhouse
Address: 18-22 Greenside Pl.
Operating hours: Depends on event schedule
The Edinburgh Playhouse might be renowned for its theatrical performances, but it’s also infamous for its ghostly resident—Albert. The legend of Albert originated with a shadowy figure, often spotted in the theatre’s upper circle.
Though no one knows exactly who Albert was, this elusive ghost is known to flicker lights, move objects, and even pat people on the back. Theatre employees have reported hearing strange noises and seeing seats mysteriously fold and unfold.
Another eerie aspect of the playhouse is the frequent cold spots experienced by visitors, particularly in the corridors and dressing rooms. Some claim that Albert isn’t alone; other, less identifiable spirits might also call this historic theatre home.
Pro tip:
If ghosts aren’t your thing, you can check out the theatre’s historical tours. They offer a fascinating look at the building’s rich history and include areas not usually open to the public.
The Grassmarket
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The Grassmarket in Edinburgh is steeped in grim history, particularly due to its past as a site for public hangings in the 17th and 18th centuries. Hundreds of individuals met their end here, and it’s said that their restless spirits linger.
One of the most famous tales involves a ghost named Half-Hangit Maggie, a woman who survived her hanging only to live for many years afterward. Visitors have reported her spectral figure wandering the area, particularly near the site of the former gallows.
Another eerie tale from the Grassmarket involves the Covenanters’ Prison, where several prisoners were held before their execution. Moreover, you may stroll through the historic pubs and shops scattered around the area.
Pro tip:
If you’re up for a real adventure, visit the Grassmarket at night. The atmosphere is much more conducive to ghost sightings when the hustle and bustle of the day has died down.
Lauriston Castle
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Website: http://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/Venues/Lauriston-Castle.aspx
Address: 2 Cramond Rd S, Edinburgh EH4 6AD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 131 336 2060
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Lauriston Castle looks like a charming estate, but it hides some eerie tales within its history. Built in the 16th century and renovated in the 19th century, this castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of its former owner, Sir Archibald Napier.
Legend has it that Napier’s ghost manifests as a tall man in a green jacket. There are numerous reports from visitors who’ve felt an uncanny presence or seen the figure of Napier walking the grounds.
Another spectral resident is Lady Napier, who appears in a flowing white dress. Furthermore, the library is particularly noted for its ghostly activity, making it a favourite spot for ghost hunters.
Pro tip:
The castle offers guided tours that dive deep into its rich history. It’s worth catching one to get the full scoop on the various haunting tales and perhaps gather some insider secrets on the best spots for ghost hunting.
The White Hart Inn
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Website: https://www.belhaven.co.uk/pubs/midlothian/white-hart
Address: 32 Grassmarket
Contact details: +44 131 226 2806
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
The White Hart Inn is one of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs, dating all the way back to 1516. It’s known for being frequented by the infamous duo of murderers, Burke and Hare.
People who’ve stayed at or merely visited have reported strange occurrences like inexplicable sounds, random cold spots, and even apparitions of shadowy figures. What really hooks people are the stories of ghostly encounters in its basement.
It’s where you might just bump into the ghost of a young girl or several unidentified presences.
Pro tip:
For those who dare, try chatting up the staff about their personal ghost stories; many of them have experienced unexplainable events.
And if you’re planning to have a drink, ask for the spot where Burke and Hare supposedly lured their victims—it adds an extra twist to your pint.
The Scotsman Hotel
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Website: https://www.scotsmanhotel.co.uk/
Address: 20 North Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 556 5565
Operating hours:
- Check in – 3 PM
- Check out – 11 AM
The Scotsman Hotel is a must-visit for those keen on a luxury stay with a side of the supernatural. This place has a rich history, having originally served as the headquarters of The Scotsman newspaper.
It’s said that the spirit of an old editor haunts the corridors, often seen wandering the halls, presumably chasing after deadlines even in the afterlife. Guests have recounted spine-tingling tales of being abruptly woken up at night, only to find no one there.
These incidents often occur in specific rooms, where cold drafts and flickering lights are common. Some folks even report hearing the faint sound of typewriter keys clacking away, even though no typewriters are present in the hotel anymore.
Pro tip:
If you’re a history buff, request a tour of the old newspaper offices—they’re steeped in eerie charm.
Dalhousie Castle
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Website: http://www.dalhousiecastle.co.uk/
Address: Bonnyrigg EH19 3JB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1875 820153
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Built in the 13th century, Dalhousie Castle is riddled with history and ghostly tales, especially the famous “Grey Lady.” The Grey Lady is believed to be Lady Catherine, who was locked in the castle’s tower by her family for falling in love with the wrong man.
Left to die, she continues to roam the halls, mainly in the dungeon and the old chapel. Guests have reported seeing her spectral figure, sometimes just catching a fleeting glimpse from the corner of their eye.
It’s also believed she enjoys tapping guests on the shoulders or tugging at their clothes just to make her presence known.
Pro tip:
For a more immersive experience, book one of the castle’s exclusive ghost tours, usually offered at night, for maximum effect. It’s also worth asking about the tower room where Lady Catherine was imprisoned—though be prepared for some chills.
Borthwick Castle
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Website: https://www.borthwickcastle.com/
Address: North Middleton, Gorebridge EH23 4QY, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1875 820514
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Borthwick Castle in North Middleton is not just about luxury stays and historic ambiance—it’s also infamous for its haunted “Red Room.”
This room is said to be the most haunted part of the castle, with tales of numerous ghost sightings and inexplicable activities.
The castle itself dates back to the 15th century and has seen its share of sieges, battles, and, of course, dark events that give rise to its haunting tales. Guests who have dared to stay here often report eerie feelings, and even sightings of apparitions.
Pro tip:
When you visit Borthwick Castle, make sure to pay a visit to the Red Room for a truly haunting experience. The staff can also share some lesser-known stories if you chat them up—they’ve seen and heard them all over the years.
