The Ghosts of Borthwick Castle: A Fortress of Shadows



Standing tall in the Scottish countryside, just 12 miles from Edinburgh, Borthwick Castle is a stunning medieval fortress steeped in history, mystery, and ghostly legends. Built in 1430 by Sir William Borthwick, this imposing structure has witnessed centuries of intrigue, betrayal, and bloodshed, leaving behind restless spirits said to roam its ancient halls.

Visitors and paranormal investigators alike have reported unexplained phenomena, from eerie whispers to shadowy apparitions. But who are the ghosts that haunt Borthwick Castle? Let's explore the spectral residents of this historic stronghold.

Mary, Queen of Scots – A Royal Apparition

One of Borthwick Castle’s most famous connections is to Mary, Queen of Scots. In 1567, Mary sought refuge at the castle with her third husband, James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, as she fled from her enemies. Legend says that when the castle came under siege, Mary disguised herself as a pageboy and escaped through a window, narrowly avoiding capture. Though she survived that night, Mary’s life was filled with tragedy, leading to her execution in 1587. Many believe that her spirit never truly found peace, and her ghost has been seen wandering the halls of Borthwick Castle, perhaps reliving the desperate escape she made centuries ago.

The Mysterious "Red Man"

Another famous specter is the Red Man, a ghostly figure cloaked in a red mist. He is believed to be the spirit of a man brutally murdered within the castle walls, possibly a knight or soldier who met a violent end.

Guests and staff have reported chilling cold spots, the sensation of being watched, and a heavy feeling of dread when near the area where his presence is most often felt. Some claim to have seen his shadowy figure looming in doorways or drifting through the Great Hall.

The Phantom Cries of the Ghostly Children

The castle’s darker history includes tragic deaths of children, possibly those of noble families who once lived there. Their spirits are said to manifest through disembodied cries and ghostly laughter heard echoing through the stone corridors.

Some visitors have even claimed to hear the sound of small footsteps running across the floors, only to find no one there. These haunting sounds have added to the belief that the castle holds the spirits of those who met an untimely fate.

The Haunting of the Hidden Rooms

Borthwick Castle is known for its secret passageways and hidden rooms, some of which were used to conceal nobles during times of danger. It is said that spirits of those who died while in hiding still linger in these concealed spaces. One particularly eerie story tells of a ghostly figure standing in the shadows of one of these hidden rooms, only to vanish when approached. Some visitors have reported sudden feelings of panic and suffocation, as if they were experiencing the fear of those trapped long ago.

Modern-Day Encounters

Today, Borthwick Castle operates as a luxurious hotel and wedding venue, but its ghostly reputation remains. Many guests report unexplained occurrences, such as doors opening on their own, furniture moving, and the sound of unseen figures whispering in the night. Paranormal investigators have conducted ghost hunts at the castle, capturing strange anomalies, EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena), and mysterious cold spots. The castle embraces its haunted past, offering ghost tours and overnight stays for those brave enough to experience its eerie atmosphere.

Conclusion

With its rich history, royal connections, and chilling ghost stories, Borthwick Castle remains one of Scotland’s most haunted locations. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the tales of Mary, Queen of Scots, the Red Man, and the ghostly children continue to captivate visitors. If you ever find yourself wandering the halls of Borthwick Castle at night, listen closely—you just might hear the whispers of the past.