The Ghosts of Greyfriars Kirkyard: Edinburgh’s Most Haunted Graveyard



Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Scotland’s most famous and haunted cemeteries. Steeped in history and dark legends, this graveyard has long been associated with tortured souls, restless spirits, and violent paranormal encounters. From the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist to the loyal spirit of Greyfriars Bobby, the stories surrounding this eerie location have drawn countless visitors, ghost hunters, and thrill-seekers.

A History of Suffering and Death

Greyfriars Kirkyard dates back to the 16th century and has been the final resting place for thousands of Edinburgh’s citizens over the centuries. However, it is not just a burial ground—it has also been the site of torture, imprisonment, and brutal executions. One of the most chilling historical events tied to Greyfriars is the Covenanters’ Prison, where in 1679, hundreds of Scottish Presbyterians were imprisoned, tortured, and executed for their religious beliefs. The man responsible for their suffering was Sir George Mackenzie, whose spirit is now said to haunt the graveyard with terrifying intensity.

The Mackenzie Poltergeist: Edinburgh’s Most Violent Ghost

The most infamous ghost of Greyfriars Kirkyard is the Mackenzie Poltergeist, believed to be the restless spirit of Sir George “Bluidy” Mackenzie, a ruthless persecutor of the Covenanters. Mackenzie was responsible for imprisoning and killing thousands in the Covenanters’ Prison. After his death in 1691, he was buried in the Black Mausoleum, a grand tomb within the graveyard. In the late 20th century, strange and violent activity began occurring near Mackenzie’s tomb.

Paranormal Encounters with the Mackenzie Poltergeist

Visitors who get too close to the Black Mausoleum have reported frightening experiences, including:

• Sudden scratches, bruises, and burns appearing on their skin.
• Being pushed, shoved, or even knocked unconscious by an unseen force.
• Hearing growls, screams, and whispers in the dead of night.
• Feeling an overwhelming sense of dread or nausea near the tomb.

Some paranormal investigators believe that disturbing Mackenzie’s tomb—especially when a homeless man broke into it in 1999—may have unleashed one of the most active poltergeists in the world.

The Covenanters’ Prison: A Place of Eternal Suffering

Located within Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Covenanters’ Prison was an open-air jail where over 1,200 men were held in horrific conditions. Starvation, disease, and execution claimed the lives of many prisoners. Their bodies were buried in mass graves within the kirkyard. Many believe the spirits of the Covenanters still roam the area, seeking revenge or justice.

Visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures, hearing moaning voices, and experiencing strange cold spots, particularly at night. Some even claim they have seen apparitions of gaunt-faced men in ragged clothing.

Greyfriars Bobby: The Loyal Ghostly Dog

Not all spirits in Greyfriars Kirkyard are terrifying—one of the most beloved ghosts is Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal Skye Terrier who famously guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years after his death. Bobby belonged to John Gray, a night watchman who passed away in 1858. For years, Bobby was seen sitting by Gray’s grave, refusing to leave—even in the harshest weather.

After Bobby died in 1872, he was buried near the entrance of the graveyard.

Visitors claim to have seen and heard a small dog running through the cemetery, despite no animals being present.

Today, Greyfriars Bobby is honored with a statue outside the kirkyard, and many people leave toys, sticks, and treats at his grave in tribute.

Modern Paranormal Investigations and Ghost Tours

Due to its terrifying reputation, Greyfriars Kirkyard has become a hotspot for ghost tours and paranormal investigations.

Many ghost hunters have recorded:

• Strange lights and ghostly orbs floating near graves.
• Unexplained temperature drops and equipment malfunctions.
• Mysterious EVP recordings, capturing chilling whispers and growls.

The graveyard has been featured in numerous TV shows, books, and documentaries, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most haunted places in the world.

Would You Dare to Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard?

Whether drawn by its rich history, eerie atmosphere, or terrifying ghost stories, visitors continue to flock to Greyfriars Kirkyard in search of paranormal encounters. But beware—many who visit report leaving with strange marks, nightmares, or an eerie feeling of being followed. Would you brave the darkness of Edinburgh’s most haunted graveyard, knowing that the Mackenzie Poltergeist might be watching? Or would the sound of a ghostly dog’s footsteps behind you be enough to send you running?