Discover some of Edinburgh’s hotels said to have a ghostly presence!
With so many places in Edinburgh said to be the home of ghostly visitors, why should the city’s hotels be any different – after all, with accommodation this good why would you ever want to leave!
Dalhousie Castle Hotel
Its rich history and enchanting ambience.
Built in the 13th century, this impressive looking castle is located in Bonnyrigg, around 30 minutes’ drive from central Edinburgh.
Turned into a luxurious hotel in 1972, the walls of Dalhousie Castle Hotel have seen much action over the past 800 years, from battles and invasions to visits by kings and queens. Touches from Dalhousie’s long and fascinating history remain throughout the building, but today you’ll also find all the comforts you would expect from a modern luxurious hotel, including deluxe bedrooms and a range of therapeutic and beauty treatments in the relaxing spa.
As for any spiritual guests, Dalhousie is thought to be haunted by a number of phantoms, including Lady Catherine, known as the Grey Lady. A mistress of one of the Laird’s, she was revengefully locked in one of turrets by the Laird’s wife. Ever since, there have been sightings of her roaming the castle.
Borthwick Castle
Its haunting allure and captivating medieval atmosphere.
With 600 years of history permeating through its walls, Borthwick Castle has seen its fair share of historic moments. From a place of refuge for Mary Queen of Scots in 1567 to an attack by Oliver Cromwell’s army in 1650, these walls certainly have a tale or two to tell.
Located just 12 miles south of Edinburgh, today it is a luxurious retreat, with 12 lavish bedchambers and breathing panoramic views.
Voices, clicking noises and light anomalies have been reported by visitors, whilst legend has it that the ghost of Mary Queen of Scots wanders the halls at night. The castle’s Great Hall and Red Room are of special note, the latter of which is said to be inhabited by the spirits of a murdered mother and her child.
The Witchery by The Castle
Its bewitching charm and romantic gothic setting.
Occupying 16th century Boswell’s Court, The Witchery by The Castle takes its name from the hundreds of people burned at the stake as witches on Castlehill between the 16th and 18th centuries.
Today, this opulent restaurant and hotel, just a few minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Castle, offers stunning décor, legendary food and an award-winning wine list. Guests can soak up the magical atmosphere in the elegant candle-lit restaurant or relax in one of the nine fabulously original and indulgent suites.
This lavish venue is said to be haunted by some of the innocent people who cruelly lost their lives during the witch persecutions.
The Scotsman Hotel
Its elegant heritage and captivating stories of Scottish culture.
Straddling the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh and perched atop the city’s North Bridge, The Scotsman Hotel is a luxurious venue, with decadent floor to ceiling wood panelled rooms, grandiose marble staircase and stained glass windows.
Prior to this magnificent building being a hotel, it was the offices of the Edinburgh Evening News and Scotsman newspapers.
And it seems that the past employees are still hard at work – shadowy figures moving through the hallways, and the sound of old-fashioned typewriters clicking away in the dead of night have been reported, despite the newsroom being long gone.
If you’re looking for something a bit less scary, read our Guide to Edinburgh’s Hotels
From luxury to budget, family-friendly to dog-friendly, Edinburgh is packed with a great choice of accommodation
