It’s October, which only means one thing – spooky Season is officially upon us. So, what better time than now to delve into the dark and decidedly eerie recesses of history and explore the macabre?
Nestled atop Castle Rock, a famous fortress in Scotland is notorious for its haunted past. Edinburgh Castle, with its commanding presence, dominates the city skyline and houses centuries of history within its stone walls.
This iconic fortress, said to be inhabited by restless spirits, isn’t just a must-visit tourist spot; it’s also one of Britain’s most haunted sites. The BBC even listed it among the UK’s top five most haunted places, owing to its long and spine-chilling history of ghostly encounters.
Upon entering, you may notice a sudden drop in temperature. Odd knocks, whispers, and footsteps reverberate through the castle’s deserted corridors.
Visitors have reported feeling cold hands brushing their shoulders, seeing shadows flicker just out of sight, and catching glimpses of figures dressed in historical garb — like phantoms from centuries ago. Flickering lights seem to lure visitors further into the castle’s enigmatic, shadowy corners.
The dungeons are widely considered the most hair-raising part of the castle. The cold stone walls appear to still echo with the tormented cries of long-departed prisoners. Visitors have reported hearing chains dragging across the floor, even when no one else is present.
One notorious inmate reportedly attempted to flee the castle’s dungeons in a wheelbarrow, only to tumble from the battlements. Some visitors have even reported catching the distinct scent of manure or spotting the ghostly outline of a man frozen mid-fall – caught between life and death.
These aren’t mere ghost tales — many of the castle’s apparitions have names and histories. The Grey Lady, thought to be Janet Douglas who was executed in 1537, is said to roam the corridors, her sorrowful cries and soft sobbing sending shivers down the spines of those nearby.
The headless drummer silently patrols the battlements, his rhythmic drumming growing louder and faster as if signalling impending danger. And the phantom black dog, with its glowing eyes, is said to prowl the grounds, terrifying those who cross its path.
Other guests have reported spectral soldiers marching through the hallways — guards in ancient uniforms who disappear when approached — and torches flickering in deserted halls, as if the castle’s bloody battles are eternally replayed.
Travel experts Ski Vertigo have also spotlighted some of the unforgettable experiences awaiting those daring enough to explore the fortress:
- Venture into the dungeons: Hear phantom screams and feel the residual terror of long-imprisoned spirits.
- Admire the Crown Jewels: Gaze upon Scotland’s priceless treasures while experiencing the castle’s eerie aura.
- Join a ghost tour: Uncover the castle’s most haunted locations, with stories of executions, restless spirits, and unexplained phenomena.
- Walk the battlements: Enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh but keep an eye out for the headless drummer, spectral soldiers, and flickering torches.
Even sceptics find Edinburgh Castle almost alive after dark. Visitors frequently spot shadowy figures, hear faint cries, or feel an unseen presence trailing closely behind.