Edinburgh Castle in Scotland is renowned for its rich history and numerous ghost stories, making it a popular destination for those interested in the paranormal. From the eerie tunnels beneath the Royal Mile to the haunting presence of the Grey Lady, this iconic castle is a treasure trove of supernatural tales.
Most Haunted Areas of Edinburgh Castle
1. The Royal Mile Tunnels
Beneath the bustling Royal Mile lies a network of tunnels, where a piper boy was once sent to explore and subsequently disappeared. Visitors to this area have reported hearing the faint sound of bagpipes, believed to be the ghostly presence of the lost piper boy.
2. The Battlements
The battlements of Edinburgh Castle are said to be haunted by the ghost of a headless drummer boy, who can be heard playing an old Scottish war tune. This ghostly apparition is believed to be an omen of bad luck.
3. The Dog Cemetery
The burial ground for regimental mascots, the Dog Cemetery at Edinburgh Castle is a site of paranormal activity. Visitors have reported hearing the sounds of distant pawing and barking, and sometimes catching a glimpse of the outline of a small black dog.
4. The Castle Dungeon
Reports of poltergeist activity and other paranormal occurrences have been documented in the Castle Dungeon, making it one of the most haunted areas of Edinburgh Castle.
Documented Cases of Ghost Sightings
1. The Piper Boy
The story of the piper boy who disappeared while exploring the tunnels beneath the Royal Mile is one of the most well-known ghost stories associated with Edinburgh Castle. Visitors have reported hearing the faint sound of bagpipes, believed to be the ghostly presence of the lost piper boy.
2. The Headless Drummer Boy
The ghost of a headless drummer boy has been seen along the battlements of Edinburgh Castle, playing an old Scottish war tune. This ghostly apparition is believed to be an omen of bad luck.
3. The Grey Lady (Janet Douglas, Lady of Glamis)
Executed in 1537, the ghost of Janet Douglas, Lady of Glamis, has been seen weeping throughout the castle. Her sorrowful presence is a haunting reminder of the castle’s dark history.
4. Ghost Dogs
Reports of ghost dogs, particularly Greyfriars Bobby, have been documented in the Dog Cemetery at Edinburgh Castle. Visitors have reported hearing the sounds of distant pawing and barking, and sometimes catching a glimpse of the outline of a small black dog.
Visiting Edinburgh Castle
Opening Hours
- April 1 – September 30: 9:30am – 6pm
- October 1 – December 31: 9:30am – 5:00pm
- January 1-4: 10am – 4pm
- January 5 – March 31: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Ticket Prices
- Adults: £17.50
- Concession: £14.00
- Children (5-15 years): £10.50
- Family tickets are also available