13 (allegedly) haunted castles in Scotland - and the ghosts spotted there
While watching horror films and eating copious amounts of sweets are popular ways to spend Halloween, there are a wealth of locations to visit in the UK if you’re hoping for a real scare. The UK is home to a number of impressive castles, many of which play host to some hair-raising ghost stories - including several in Scotland. Whether you’re a believer in ghosts, or still a sceptic, these 13 Scottish castles all have a strange history and are allegedly said to be haunted.
1. Glamis Castle, Angus
Glamis Castle is reputed to be the most haunted castle in Scotland and hides many dark family secrets. Many rooms have spooky tales, including the Hangman’s Chamber, believed to be where a butler once hanged himself, and several ghosts are thought to reside here, including the Monster of Glamis, the Grey Lady, the Tongueless Woman and Earl Beardie. Photo: Shutterstock
2. Tantallon Castle, East Lothian
This 17th century castle is allegedly home to the wandering spirit of a man dressed in a period costume, and two photographs, taken in 1977 and 2008, appear to show the mysterious figure standing in an old doorway. Photo: Shutterstock
3. Culcreuch Castle, Fintry
This castle had been home to the Barons of Culcreuch since 1699 and was later converted into a hotel in the 1980s, before closing to the public in early 2020. It is reputedly haunted by several ghosts, including a phantom harpist whose music has often been heard in the dead of night. Photo: Google
4. Sanquhar Castle, Dumfries
The ruined castle is said to be inhabited by the spectre of John Wilson, who was wrongly imprisoned and hanged there in the 16th century. It is claimed by locals that his groans and rattling chains can still be heard. Photo: Google