The Ghosts of Edinburgh Castle: Scotland’s Haunted Fortress



Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. With a history stretching back over 900 years, it has seen countless battles, sieges, and royal dramas. But beneath its towering walls lies something more chilling—a legacy of hauntings and restless spirits. Edinburgh Castle is considered one of the most haunted locations in the world, with numerous eerie encounters reported over the centuries.

A Fortress Steeped in History and Mystery

Edinburgh Castle has been a royal residence, a military stronghold, and even a prison. With such a violent and tragic past, it’s no surprise that many believe the spirits of former soldiers, prisoners, and executed traitors still linger within its ancient walls.

Ghostly Residents of the Castle

The Headless Drummer: One of the most famous spirits is a headless drummer, first spotted in 1650. His appearance is said to be an omen of impending danger, with his drumming echoing through the castle halls. Some believe he was executed after being caught warning the Scots of an English attack.

The Phantom Piper: Legend tells of a young piper who was sent to explore a mysterious underground tunnel beneath the castle. He played his bagpipes as he walked so those above could track his progress. But suddenly, the music stopped, and he was never seen again. Today, his ghostly piping is sometimes heard echoing through the tunnels and castle walls.

The Prisoner Spirits: Edinburgh Castle housed prisoners of war from the Seven Years’ War, the American Revolution, and the Napoleonic Wars. Some of these prisoners met horrific ends, and their spirits are said to roam the dungeons. Visitors have reported feeling sudden chills, seeing shadowy figures, and even experiencing unexplained touches or tugs on their clothing.

The Grey Lady: Many believe the Grey Lady is the spirit of Janet Douglas, Lady Glamis, who was accused of witchcraft and burned at the stake in 1537. Her ghost is said to wander the castle, particularly in the David’s Tower area, where she spent her final days.

Paranormal Investigations and Hauntings Today

Edinburgh Castle’s reputation for hauntings has attracted countless paranormal researchers. In 2001, a team of scientists conducted a major ghost study inside the castle. They placed volunteers in different rooms—without telling them where hauntings had been reported. Astonishingly, many described sensations of being watched, touched, or seeing shadowy figures, matching the castle’s ghostly legends.

A Haunted Legacy

Today, Edinburgh Castle remains a top tourist attraction, drawing history lovers and ghost hunters alike. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, the castle’s eerie atmosphere and chilling tales make it one of Scotland’s most intriguing haunted locations.