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.
9. Castle Menzies, Perthshire
Reports of paranormal activity at this castle range are abundant and it is said that the meat cellar is haunted by three grumpy women, believed to be a coven of witches. Photo: Shutterstock
10. Stirling Castle, Stirling
This hilltop castle has been linked to a number of ghosts, including the ghost of Mary Queen of Scots, one of her servants, and a ghostly highlander dressed in a kilt. Visitors have reported tales of mistaking him for a tour guide, only for him to turn and disappear when approached. Photo: Shutterstock
11. Culzean Castle, Maybole
Perched on a cliff face on the Ayrshire coast, this castle is reputed to be home to at least seven ghosts, including a young woman wearing a ballgown and a piper who is said to play his pipes in the grounds. Photo: Shutterstock
12. Blackness Castle, West Lothian
Previously used as an artillery fortification, a prison and an ammunition depot, this 15th century castle is believed to be home to a phantom knight who guards the prison town. He is said to occasionally leap out at visitors and give them a fright. Photo: Shutterstock