Become a ghost hunter as VisitScotland reveals the most haunted castles
The spooky season has arrived and VisitScotland reveals the most haunted castles and shares expert tips for capturing real ghosts.
Article Source: VisitScotland
Last Updated: 28 October 2024 9:28
The spooky season has arrived, and Scotland may just be the ultimate destination for ghost hunting. With over 1,500 castles and a rich heritage of folklore and myths and legends, the country is a supernatural hotspot. Shrouded in mystery, Scotland’s ancient castles are ideal spots for ghost hunting, filled with dark legends and restless spirits, which create the perfect conditions for paranormal activity.
To inspire people to embrace the Halloween spirit and help adventurers in search of a thrilling experience, VisitScotland has put together a ghost hunting guide with expert tips on capturing a ghost through a camera, ensuring you have proof of your supernatural adventures, as well as some of the most haunted castles in the country.
Five expert tips for ghost hunting from VisitScotland’s multimedia team
1. Prepare your camera settings: For the best chances to see a ghost on camera, make sure it’s set up for low-light conditions. If you're using a smartphone, check the settings, more advanced cameras can also be adjusted accordingly for better results.
2. Stay still and quiet: Just like photographing wildlife, being very still and quiet is crucial for spotting a ghost, as they can be easily scared off.
3. Use a tripod: To keep your camera steady during low-light shooting, use a tripod or find another way to stabilise your camera. Movement can affect the clarity of your shot.
4. Consider using a flash: While a flash can be helpful for seeing a ghost in the dark and illuminate your shot, it may also scare away any potential ghostly visitors. Be prepared to capture the moment quickly if you decide to use it.
5. Don’t forget your phone: Bring your phone along so you can instantly share any rare and supernatural photos on social media!
Some of the ‘most haunted’ castles in Scotland
Glamis Castle, Angus
Glamis Castle is famed for its ghostly residents and many reported supernatural events that have fascinated visitors for years. While the exact number of ghosts is debated, it is widely believed that at least nine spirits haunt its ancient halls. One of the most well-known ghosts that is said to haunt the castle is The Grey Lady Ghost of Glamis, believed to be Lady Janet Douglas. After being accused of conspiring to poison King James V, she was imprisoned and tortured until she was wrongfully convicted as a witch and burned at the stake.
The castle is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with Halloween events running from the 25th to the 31st of October. Daring visitors can embark on a chilling indoor tour, uncovering eerie tales of the spirits believed to haunt the castle.
Duntrune Castle, Argyll
Constructed in the 12th century, Duntrune Castle has withstood Scotland's turbulent history, earning its reputation as one of the best-preserved and longest-occupied castles in the country. With its numerous owners over the centuries, it’s no surprise locals have been reporting strange occurrences, such as banging noises, flying objects, and even the haunting sound of bagpipes echoing through the halls. Legend has it that in 1615, a MacDonald spy disguised as a piper was sent to Duntrune to gather intelligence on its defences. His identity was discovered by the Campbells, who cruelly severed his hands, leaving him to die. Now, his troubled spirit is said to wander the castle, forever playing his mournful tune.
As the castle is now a private residence, eager visitors can only book a tour in advance by enquiring beforehand.
Stirling Castle, Stirling
With its rich heritage it’s not surprising that Stirling Castle is immersed in ghostly tales. Among its most famous spirits is the Green Lady, often seen before disaster strikes and believed to be either a heartbroken commander’s daughter or a maid who perished saving Mary, Queen of Scots from a fire. The Pink Lady, another ghostly figure and even more mysterious, is thought to be either Mary herself or a woman seeking her husband lost in battle. Phantom footsteps are also often heard on the battlements, adding to the castle’s haunted appeal.
For ghost hunters and regular visitors, the castle is open from 9:30 to 17:00, with the last entry at 16:00.
Tantallon Castle, East Lothian
Tantallon Castle is a striking reminder of a turbulent past that dates back to the 14th century. Its ruins evoke both grandeur and tragedy, making it a fascinating site to explore. The castle gained even more attention when a visitor captured what is considered to be one of the world's most intriguing haunted photographs. The image shows a figure of a woman dressed in period clothing, gazing from one of the castle's crumbling windows. Apparently, tests have confirmed the photo's authenticity, leaving even sceptics puzzled by this mysterious ghost.
What better place to try and capture one yourself? The castle is open daily from 10:00 to 16:00 (with the last entry at 15:30) although be mindful that the east tower and doocot are currently not accessible to visitors.
Crathes Castle, Aberdeenshire
The castle, built in the 16th century by Alexander Burnett, is a magnificent labyrinth of turrets, towers, oak panelling, and painted ceilings, many of which are still beautifully preserved today. The Green Lady is Crathes Castle’s most well-known ghost, seen by many visitors over the years, including Queen Victoria herself. She often appears as a young woman holding a baby or as a glowing green orb, gliding through the room before disappearing into the fireplace.
The castle is open daily until 31st October from 10:00 to 16:00. From 1st November to 22nd December, it is open Thursday to Sunday during the same hours.
Blackness Castle, Falkirk
This is one of Scotland's most imposing fortresses, steeped in a past that extends to the 15th century. Throughout the years, it has served various roles, from an artillery stronghold to a prison and an ammunition depot. Blackness Castle’s history has ignited many haunting legends, including that of a ghostly knight in shining armour who is said to guard the prison tower. He is known for startling unsuspecting visitors and many guests have reported unsettling thumps and dragging sounds echoing through the halls so proceed with caution when visiting.
For those who are feeling particularly brave and want to encounter the knight, the castle is open daily from 10:00 to 16:00, with the last entry at 15:15.
Castle Fraser, Aberdeenshire
Castle Fraser’s historical charm and ghostly legends make it a must-visit for those intrigued by the paranormal. Famous for its quirky features, the castle includes hidden staircases, trapdoors, and even a spy hole, adding to its air of secrecy. But for those seeking a supernatural experience, Castle Fraser is particularly known for its resident ghosts. Numerous sightings have been reported of a bloodied young woman, said to be brutally murdered in the Green Room. Legend has it her body was dragged down the round tower, staining the steps so deeply that they had to be covered with wooden panelling, which remains today. Lady Blanche Drummond, who died in 1874, is another spirit said to haunt the grounds, often spotted in a long black gown.
For the chance to spot one of Castle Fraser's famous ghosts, it’s open daily between 21st and 27th October from 10:30 to 16:30, while from 28th October till the 21st December, the castle welcomes visitors Friday to Monday until 16:00.
To discover more ideas for haunted castles to explore, check out VisitScotland’s page: www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/attractions/castles/haunted
Image: Stirling Castle
Image credit: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
A Burns Night under the stars: Dynamic Earth reimagines the traditional supper
This Burns Night, Dynamic Earth invites you to step into the stars for an evening where tradition meets the galaxy!
READ MORE
Edinburgh International Book Festival opens submissions for Global Ink 2026
Submissions for Global Ink 2026, Edinburgh International Book Festival's flagship international forum for Festival Directors, are now open.
READ MORE
Scottish Ensemble spotlights future string stars with Musical Encounters
Scottish Ensemble begins an exciting 2026 with the return of their Young Artist programme, helping to develop the next generation of Scotland's young string players.
READ MORE
Celebrate love with your PAWfect Valentine at Dobbies Garden Centres
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting pet parents to celebrate Valentine's Day with their beloved furry friends in selected stores across the country!
READ MORE
Enlightenment an immersive experience set to transform McEwan Hall in Edinburgh
Swiss art collective PROJEKTIL will bring its vivid light and sound show to Edinburgh from 31st January, following acclaimed runs in Glasgow, Liverpool and Leeds!
READ MORE
Primary schools in Scotland given chance to win specifically curated Burns Supper from Aldi
Aldi Scotland is giving primary school pupils across Scotland the chance to enjoy a truly traditional Burns Supper, complete with all the trimmings, including a bagpiper.
READ MORE
Glasgow International Comedy Festival launches 2026 programme with over 100,000 tickets on sale
Glasgow International Comedy Festival has announced the full programme for 2026's event with 560 shows in 40 venues across the city from 11th - 29th March, and over 100,000 tickets now on sale!
READ MORE
Top Scottish chef to host floating Captains Table experience onboard luxury Edinburgh hotel
One of Scotland's leading chefs will be hosting a collaborative Captain's Table experience onboard Edinburgh's five-star luxury floating hotel, Fingal, on Wednesday 4th February.
READ MORE
National Centre for Music appoints Director of Partnerships
Scotland's National Centre for Music bolsters founding team with new Director of Partnerships.
READ MORE
Celebrate Burns Night 2026 at Flight Club
If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Burns Night this year, head to Flight Club!
READ MORE
Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026
The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.
READ MORE
Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot
Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!
READ MORE
Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026
Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!
READ MORE
Edinburgh Open Workshop kicks off the New Year with hands on courses to build new skills
New year, new skills. Edinburgh Open Workshop is kicking off January with a hands-on programme of creative courses designed to help people turn resolutions into reality!
READ MORE
Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.
READ MORE
Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary
Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.
READ MORE
Vow to volunteer! The New Year resolution that could change lives in 2026
The team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) believe that by vowing to volunteer in 2026, people can make a real difference to their local community!
READ MORE
Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot
Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!
READ MORE
Glamorous Edwardians to be explored in major Edinburgh exhibition
A glamorous, never-before-exhibited portrait of Queen Mary and a miniature sleigh made of rock crystal will be among highlights on show in Scotland for the first time in this major exhibition.
READ MORE
Scotland goalkeeper kicks off Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh
Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations officially began last night as Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon kicked off the city's iconic Torchlight Procession.
READ MORE
Hibs women support Scottish charity with Nuby this Christmas
Two Hibernian Women players have helped bring festive cheer to local families this Christmas, donating Santa Surprise Boxes to a Scottish charity on behalf of baby brand Nuby.
READ MORE
Hauf and hauf revival as Edinburgh drinks partnership hits the pub
A modern twist on a traditional Scottish serve is being poured across Edinburgh this festive season, as two of the city's leading independent drinks producers announce a flavour-led collaboration.
READ MORE
Opening New Years Day: Turner in January triumphantly returns to the National Galleries of Scotland
Following the incredible success of last year's blockbuster exchange with the National Gallery of Ireland, Scotland's own much-loved Turners are back in Edinburgh for 2026!
READ MORE
Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year
Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!
READ MORE
Historic Edinburgh pub set for major investment in the New Year
A much-loved Belhaven pub in the heart of the Old Town is set to ring in the New Year in style with a brand-new look and elevated offering as it undergoes a significant programme of refurbishment.
READ MORE
Castle of Light offers special priced tickets for spectacular closing night
Experience the award-winning after-dark event at Edinburgh Castle one final time, with a special £10 ticket available for the final night (Sunday 4 January 2026).
READ MORE
Edinburgh Rugby scores new deal with city centre sports bar
Edinburgh Rugby has scored a new deal with one of the city’s most popular sports bars, which will see all the buzz from Hive Stadium pop-up in the Grassmarket.
READ MORE
A Goal So Good it is a Work of Art!
It’s a winner! A spectacular new photograph is now on show at National Galleries Scotland: Portrait to celebrate Scotland’s men reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026.
READ MORE
First Footin goes Global with Live Streaming announced from iconic venues
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has announced the event will include live streaming for the first time, opening the New Year’s Day performances to audiences around the world.
READ MORE
Distillers Fair returns for its 25th year at the The Scotch Whisky Experience
This December, The Scotch Whisky Experience invites guests to raise a dram to a quarter-century of discovery as the Distillers’ Fair returns for its 25th year.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links