Posted on November 6, 2023
From beautiful landscapes to ancient architecture, Scotland and Ireland are some of the most stunning countries to visit. They offer some of the spookiest adventures, too. These are the places to find centuries-old castles haunted by infamous ghosts, abbeys inhabited by supposed witches, and all other things that go bump in the night. Here’s a closer look at some of these haunted places:
In Scotland:
Crathes Castle: This beautifully landscaped estate is rumoured to be haunted by the Green Lady, a former resident of the castle who met an untimely end. Builders even discovered a young woman’s skeleton during renovations. The castle’s architecture and lush grounds make for a captivating visit.
House of Dun: The House of Dun, home to the Erskine family for over 400 years, is famous for its architecture and the plethora of ghosts haunting the estate. Visitors have reported sightings of a headless horseman, a harpist playing his instrument, and the ghost of a knight who tricked his friend’s wife into marriage.
Mary King’s Close: This spooky alley in Edinburgh, known as “Scotland’s Spookiest Street,” takes you underground into a well-preserved section of the city’s past. It was once part of the city’s slums and holds a dark history, with reports of sightings of plague victims, crying children, and other mysterious apparitions.
In Ireland:
Blarney Castle: While famous for the Blarney Stone, said to bestow the “gift of gab” upon kissers, the castle is also known to be cursed. Removing a stone from its grounds is believed to bring bad luck. Visitors from around the world have sent back stones along with pleas to end their misfortunes.
Wicklow Gaol: This Victorian-era prison in County Wicklow held various inmates for a wide range of crimes. Many have reported apparitions, intense feelings of dread, and even the sound of children crying in this haunted location. Ghost tours are available for the brave.
St. Katherine’s Abbey (Abbey of the Black Hag): Located in County Limerick, this medieval abbey, once beautiful, now lies in disarray. It is said to be home to several ghosts, including the Black Hag, the abbey’s last prioress, who had allegedly dabbled in black magic and witchcraft. The Hag’s Cell, associated with these activities, is known to instil fear in those who visit.
These haunting and historic places in Scotland and Ireland offer a unique blend of beauty and spookiness, making them intriguing destinations for those with an appetite for the supernatural. Be prepared to experience the rich history and legends of these lands as you explore their haunted pasts.