11 Weird and Mysterious Places in Edinburgh, Scotland
(originally written on mysteriousadventurestours.com)
Are you a weird traveler? Do you enjoy exploring the strange and mysterious places that exist in the world? If so, then Edinburgh, Scotland may be the perfect place for you. This historic city is full of interesting and unique sites to explore – from haunted castles to secret passageways. Let’s take a look at 11 of the weirdest and most mysterious places in Edinburgh.
1.) BLACKFORD HILL OBSERVATORY
Located on the south side of Edinburgh, this observatory was opened in 1834 by Scottish astronomer Thomas Henderson to find a way to measure the parallax of stars. Today, it is home to an array of telescopes—including one that was used by Edwin Hubble—and offers visitors a chance to gaze upon some of the night sky’s most beautiful sights.
2.) THE REAL MARY KING’S CLOSE
2.) THE REAL MARY KING’S CLOSEThis mysterious underground street dates back to 1645 when it was used as an escape route during a plague outbreak. Now, visitors can explore its dark tunnels and narrow pathways while learning about its fascinating history.
3.) GREYFRIARS KIRKYARD
3.) GREYFRIARS KIRKYARDConsidered one of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites, Greyfriars Kirkyard is home to several gravesites—some dating back as far as 1560—as well as many legends about ghosts who haunt the cemetery after dark.
4.) ROSSLYN CHAPEL
4.) ROSSLYN CHAPELBuilt in 1446 by William Sinclair, Rosslyn Chapel has been popularized by Dan Brown’s novel The Da Vinci Code as being home to ancient secrets and hidden codes. While these claims remain unsubstantiated, there is no denying that Rosslyn Chapel is still a mysterious place worth visiting for its ornate architecture and stunning stone carvings.
5.) ARTHUR’S SEAT
5.) ARTHUR’S SEATThis hilltop park offers spectacular views of Edinburgh’s skyline but also hides many secrets beneath its surface. It is said that Arthur’s Seat was once home to hidden chambers that were filled with gold coins and other treasures from long ago.
6.) CAMERA OBSCURA & WORLD OF ILLUSIONS
6.) CAMERA OBSCURA & WORLD OF ILLUSIONSThis interactive museum offers visitors an opportunity to experience science in action through fun illusions like holograms and light shows.
7.) CASTLE ROCK VAULTS
7.) CASTLE ROCK VAULTSThis network of tunnels located beneath Edinburgh Castle has served many purposes over the years including being used as underground storage cells for prisoners during WWI.
8.). THE PITT BUILDING
8.). THE PITT BUILDINGThis building has been shrouded in mystery since it first opened its doors in 1792 due to rumors that it contained secret chambers which contained documents about lost Scottish artifacts such as the Stone of Destiny.
9.). MORAY HOUSE
9.). MORAY HOUSEThis former lodging house is said to be haunted by numerous ghosts due to its past use as an execution site.
10). DEAN VILLAGE
10). DEAN VILLAGEFounded in the 12th century AD around what was once known as the “Water Of Leith” river.
11). ROYAL MILE
11). ROYAL MILEOne of the oldest streets in the old town of Edinburgh, lined with restaurants, shops, and pubs. Visitors will also find plenty of historical monuments here.
From haunted castles to secret passageways, Edinburgh holds plenty of mystery for those who seek out oddities and adventure .
Whether you’re looking for spooky stories or just curious about history, there are plenty of weird and wonderful places in this city waiting for you. So why not book your next trip today? Who knows what mysteries await?
Wanting To Learn about more places to visit in ENGLAND?
In the land of the mythical lore of dragons, wizard and phantoms, and a history rich of immortalized monarchs and endless wars lies a small garden with an enchantingly wicked twist. The Poison Garden at Alnwick Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in England for those who love to take a walk on the dangerous side. Read more in my article: WEIRD TRAVELER: THE POISON GARDEN
