Edinburgh Castle, the iconic fortress perched atop an ancient volcanic rock, is renowned for its haunting tales and ghostly encounters. As a premier destination for castle enthusiasts, the castle offers a range of ghost hunt experiences that delve into its rich paranormal history. In this blog post, we’ll explore the captivating ghost tours and the haunted history that make Edinburgh Castle a must-visit for those seeking a supernatural adventure.
Ghost Tours and Experiences
Edinburgh Castle Ghost Hunt
- Cost: £35.00
- Duration: Various tours available, ranging from 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours
- Start Location: Edinburgh
- Tour Themes: Ghost Tours, Historic Old Town Walking Tours
The Edinburgh Castle Ghost Hunt is a thrilling experience that takes visitors on a journey through the castle’s haunted corridors and hidden chambers. Led by experienced guides, the tour uncovers the dark secrets and paranormal phenomena that have been reported within the castle’s walls. Participants have the opportunity to explore the castle’s most haunted locations, such as the Casemates, the Argyle Tower, and the Laich Hall, while learning about the ghostly legends and sightings that have captivated visitors for centuries.
Haunted History
The Grey Lady
- Story: Believed to be either Janet Douglas, Lady Glamis, accused of witchcraft and burned at the stake, or Marie de Guise, the Catholic mother and regent of Mary Queen of Scots, whose corpse was kept at the castle for months
- Appearance: A 16th-century noblewoman, sometimes seen weeping
The Grey Lady is one of the most well-known ghosts associated with Edinburgh Castle. Her apparition has been reported by numerous visitors and staff over the years, with many claiming to have seen the ghostly figure of a 16th-century noblewoman, dressed in a long grey gown, wandering the castle’s corridors and stairwells.
The Headless Drummer
- Legend: First seen in 1650, drumming a warning signal before the castle was attacked by Oliver Cromwell, considered a harbinger of danger
- Appearance: A headless drummer boy playing an old Scottish war tune along the battlements
The Headless Drummer is a legendary figure that has been sighted on the castle’s battlements, playing a haunting Scottish war tune on his drums. According to the legend, the Headless Drummer first appeared in 1650, just before the castle was attacked by Oliver Cromwell’s forces, and is believed to be a harbinger of danger or impending conflict.
The Piper Ghost
- Story: A piper sent to explore underground tunnels, whose bagpipes stopped abruptly near Tron Kirk on Royal Mile; the tunnels were sealed, and the piper was never seen again
- Appearance: The sound of bagpipes can still be heard from underneath the Royal Mile
The Piper Ghost is a haunting legend associated with Edinburgh Castle and the surrounding area. According to the story, a piper was sent to explore the castle’s extensive network of underground tunnels, but his bagpipe music suddenly stopped near the Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile. The tunnels were subsequently sealed, and the piper was never seen again. However, the eerie sound of bagpipes can still be heard echoing from beneath the Royal Mile, a chilling reminder of the piper’s fate.
Other Paranormal Activity
- Poltergeist in the Castle Dungeon: Reports of a poltergeist in the castle dungeon
- Ghost Dogs: Sightings of ghost dogs in the castle’s dog cemetery, including Greyfriars Bobby
In addition to the well-known ghostly figures, Edinburgh Castle is also said to be home to other paranormal phenomena. Visitors have reported experiencing poltergeist activity in the castle’s dungeon, with objects moving on their own and unexplained noises. Furthermore, the castle’s dog cemetery is believed to be haunted by the spirits of canines, including the famous Greyfriars Bobby, whose loyal vigil at his master’s grave has become a beloved part of Edinburgh’s folklore.
Visiting Edinburgh Castle
Opening Hours
- April 1 – September 30: 9:30am – 6:00pm
- October 1 – December 31: 9:30am – 5:00pm
- January 1 – 4: 10:00am – 4:00pm
- January 5 – March 31: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Ticket Prices
- Adults: £17.50
- Concession: £14.00
- Children (5-15 years): £10.50
- Family Tickets: Available
Edinburgh Castle is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can explore the castle’s rich history and architecture, as well as participate in the thrilling ghost hunt experiences. Ticket prices are reasonable, making it an accessible attraction for both locals and tourists.
Whether you’re a seasoned castle enthusiast or simply curious about the paranormal, the Edinburgh Castle Ghost Hunt offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the castle’s haunted history, explore its most haunted locations, and uncover the secrets that have captivated visitors for centuries.
References
- https://great-castles.com/edinburghghost.html
- https://www.ghosttourbookings.com/uk/ghost-tours/edinburgh-castle-ghost-hunt/
- https://www.goscotlandtours.com/tour-list/ghost-tours-edinburgh.html
- https://www.hauntedrooms.co.uk/edinburgh-castle
- https://www.mercattours.com/blog-post/Edinburgh-Castle-Ghosts