Famous Haunted Locations in Scotland

Now that we’re into the spookiest month of the year, October of course, we thought we’d put together a list of the most famous haunted locations in Scotland for all you horror fanatics out there!

Culzean Castle

Culzean Castle may look like a grand, luxurious building but behind the facade is a whole host of reported paranormal activity! Sitting perched upon a cliff face on the Ayrshire coast, the location makes it look like every bit as haunting as rumoured to be on the inside. Culzean Castle has ties with the American Kennedy family and General Eisenhower, with reports of at least seven ghosts frequenting the castle.

The most notable ghost, with the most reported sightings, is said to be a bagpiper. The bagpiper can be heard playing along with the howling of the wind and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks on stormy nights. Other ghost sightings from over the years, include a young woman in a ballgown, a ghostly grey mist and a servant girl.

To top it all off, Culzean Castle also features in cult Scottish horror film, The Wicker Man.

Interested in planning a visit here this Halloween? You can stay at Milton Wynd Apartment – only a 13-minute drive away from Culzean Castle! In contrast to the Castle, it’s a modern, spacious 2 bedroom apartment which sleeps up to 4 people.

Stirling Castle

One of the most important castles in Scottish history, known for being home to the Kings and Queens of Scotland, is said to be haunted by one of its former Queens.

Mary Queen of Scots herself has been said to haunt the castle along with another infamous ghost, the ‘Green Lady’. It is believed she had been a servant to Mary, and according to some sources, the Green Lady died while trying to save Mary Queen of Scots from a fire in her bedroom.

Another ghost that has had numerous sightings is known as “The Highland Ghost” who roams the grounds in full traditional costume. Visitors have reportedly mistaken him for a tour guide and approach him only to be shocked when he vanishes before their eyes! The Highland Ghost was apparently captured on film in 1933, though there is debate about whether or not the footage is valid.

Fancy ghost hunting while brushing up on some Scottish history? Visit Stirling Castle and stay at Gateway Cottages – only a 15-minute drive away – so close that you can actually see the castle from the cottage! Gateway Cottage has recently been renovated, containing 2 bedrooms with panoramic views of the castle.

Culloden Moor

It was on this desolate moor near Inverness on April 16th, 1746 that the bloody battle of Culloden took place. The battle was brief but horrifyingly gruesome as thousands of clansmen were cut down and the army of Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated, ending the Jacobite rebellion. People have reported that they’ve heard the cries of the fallen, sword clashes and gunfire at the battlefield. Others have encountered a Highlander and ‘anniversary ghosts’ who haunt the area on April 16th each year.

Regardless of sightings or not, the pain and bloodshed of the battle is still obvious even today. A refurbished visitor centre is open all year round for you to learn more about this battle.

Interested in taking a visit to Culloden Moor? Stay at Balblair Holiday Cottages – only an 8-minute drive away from the site. Balblair Holiday Cottages offer a choice of 3 properties which sleep 2-6 people, all pet-friendly and have an open fire/stove which is perfect for those cold, cosy nights in.

Take a look at some other haunted sites here.