Place: Edinburgh Castle
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 131 225 9846
Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Admission: Adults £18.50; Concessions £15.00; Children (5-15 years) £11.50; Under 5s free
Website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
History: Perched atop Castle Rock, a volcanic plug formed over 350 million years ago, Edinburgh Castle has been a significant stronghold for centuries. Archaeological evidence indicates human occupation since at least the Iron Age.
The earliest documented royal castle dates back to the reign of Malcolm III in the 11th century. Throughout the Middle Ages, it served as Scotland’s chief royal residence and military stronghold, witnessing numerous sieges and battles, especially during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Notable structures within the castle include St. Margaret’s Chapel, built in the early 12th century, making it Edinburgh’s oldest surviving building. The castle also houses the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain.
Hauntings: Edinburgh Castle is reputed to be one of Scotland’s most haunted locations. Visitors and staff have reported various paranormal phenomena, including sudden temperature drops, unexplained noises, and apparitions. One of the most famous legends is that of the Lone Piper.
Centuries ago, upon discovering a network of tunnels beneath the castle, a piper was sent to explore them, playing his bagpipes so his progress could be tracked from above. Partway down the Royal Mile, the music ceased abruptly, and the piper was never found. To this day, some claim to hear faint bagpipe music emanating from beneath the castle.
Another spectral figure is the Headless Drummer, first reported in 1650. His appearance is said to foretell impending danger to the castle. Additionally, the ghost of a black dog has been spotted near the castle’s dog cemetery, and the spirits of prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars are believed to linger in the dungeons.
Personal Experiences: In 2001, a scientific study led by Dr. Richard Wiseman involved 240 volunteers exploring the castle’s reputedly haunted areas. Many participants reported unexplained experiences, such as sudden temperature changes, feelings of being watched, and sightings of shadowy figures.
Some construction workers in 2003 also claimed to have encountered ghostly apparitions, including those of prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars, while working in the castle’s dungeons.
Paranormal Activity Rating: High (Frequent activity)
For a visual exploration of the castle’s haunted history, you might find the following video insightful: