Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this iconic castle has a history that dates back to the 12th century. With its stunning views and incredible architecture, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions.
However, many visitors have reported strange sightings and ghostly apparitions. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghosts of prisoners who were executed there, as well as the infamous “headless drummer” who haunts the castle’s dungeons.
“The history of Edinburgh Castle is steeped in blood and violence, and it’s no wonder that it is one of the most haunted places in Scotland.” – Tom Asbridge, historian and author of “The Greatest Knight: The Remarkable Life of William Marshal, the Power Behind Five English Thrones.”
David Ross, historian and author of “Scotland: History, Myth and Legend.”
Duntrune Castle, located on the west coast of Scotland, has a long and storied history that dates back to the 13th century. However, it is perhaps best known for the ghostly piper that is said to haunt its walls.
According to legend, the piper was playing his bagpipes when he disappeared without a trace. To this day, visitors to Duntrune Castle have reported hearing the sound of bagpipes echoing through the halls, as well as sightings of the phantom piper himself.
In addition to the piper, Duntrune Castle is also said to be home to several other ghosts, including a young girl who roams the castle’s upper floors.
“Duntrune Castle has long been associated with the ghostly figure of a piper, who is said to have disappeared without a trace.”
David Ross, historian and author of “Scotland: History, Myth and Legend.”
Located in Angus, Glamis Castle is one of Scotland’s most beautiful castles. However, it is also known as one of the most haunted. According to legend, the castle is home to a secret room where a monster is kept locked away. Other ghostly sightings include the ghost of a young girl who died in a fire, as well as the ghost of the infamous “Grey Lady.”
“Glamis Castle is a place of great mystery and intrigue, with a long history of ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena.” – Richard Freeman, historian and Director of the Centre for Fortean Zoology.
David Ross, historian and author of “Scotland: History, Myth and Legend.”
Located in Aberdeenshire, Dunnottar Castle is a medieval fortress that was once a stronghold of the Scottish Crown Jewels. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young woman who was starved to death in a room known as the “Whig’s Vault.” Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and feeling an eerie presence in the castle’s halls.
Located in Stirling, this historic castle was once the home of the Scottish Kings and Queens. However, it is also said to be one of Scotland’s most haunted castles. Visitors have reported strange sightings and ghostly apparitions, including the ghost of a Highlander who was killed during the Jacobite Rebellion.
Located in Nairn, Cawdor Castle is a stunning medieval fortress that dates back to the 14th century. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who died tragically in the castle’s dungeons. Other ghostly sightings include the ghost of a piper who was buried alive in the castle’s walls.
Located on an island in Loch Duich, Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. However, it is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a Spanish soldier who died during a battle at the castle. Visitors have reported seeing the ghostly figure of the soldier walking through the castle’s halls.
“Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most iconic images of Scotland, but it is also home to a number of ghostly legends and tales.”
“Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most iconic images of Scotland, but it is also home to a number of ghostly legends and tales.”
Located in Aberdeenshire, Fyvie Castle is a stunning castle that dates back to the 13th century. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young woman who was murdered by her husband. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering through the castle’s halls.
“Fyvie Castle is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts, including a woman in a green dress and a young girl who roams the halls at night.”
Ian Bradley, historian and author of “The Penguin Guide to the Monuments of Scotland.”
Located in Aberdeenshire, Castle Fraser is a stunning castle that dates back to the 15th century. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young woman who died tragically in the castle’s chapel. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering through the castle’s halls.
Located in Dumfries and Galloway, Caerlaverock Castle is a triangular-shaped fortress that dates back to the 13th century. The castle was built by the Maxwell family and has a rich history of warfare and sieges. Today, the castle is known for its impressive ruins and ghostly sightings.
Kinnaird Head Castle, located in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, was once a grand lighthouse and home to the lighthouse keepers. However, the castle has a darker side as it was also used as a prison and execution site for captured French sailors during the Napoleonic Wars. Visitors to the castle report feeling cold spots and seeing strange apparitions.
Scotland is home to many haunted castles that are shrouded in mystery and legends. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or simply curious, a visit to one of these haunted castles is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
“Haunted Castles of Scotland” by Martin Coventry
This book explores the history and legends behind Scotland’s most infamous haunted castles, including Edinburgh Castle, Glamis Castle, and Dunnottar Castle.
“Ghostly Tales of Scotland’s Castles” by Ian Robertson
This collection of spooky stories delves into the haunted history of some of Scotland’s most atmospheric castles, such as Eilean Donan Castle and Fyvie Castle.
“Haunted Scottish Castles and Houses” by Robert C. Curran
This book explores the paranormal activity that has been reported at a variety of Scottish castles and country homes, including Cawdor Castle and Crathes Castle.
“The Ghosts of Scotland: A Collection of Ghost Stories Across the Scoland” by Sean M. McLachlan
While not solely focused on castles, this book includes many tales of haunted castles throughout Scotland, as well as other spooky locations such as graveyards and battlefields.
“Haunted Scotland” by Mary J. D. Hendry
This book takes a broader look at Scotland’s haunted places, but includes several chapters dedicated to haunted castles, including Stirling Castle and Castle Fraser.
