Historic Cemeteries of Edinburgh: Stories, Ghosts, and Famous Graves
Why visit the cemeteries of Edinburgh
Organizingholidays in Edinburghand not visiting at least one historic cemetery would be a shame. The graveyards of the city are not just burial places, but true open-air museums, rich in symbolism, funerary art, and legends. The most famous is Greyfriars Kirkyard, renowned for the dog Bobby and the alleged curses. But there are also lesser-known cemeteries, like Canongate Kirkyard and St. Cuthbert's, that tell the story of the city through their stones.
Greyfriars Kirkyard (the most famous)
History and how to get there
Behind the National Museum of Scotland, 5 minutes from the Royal Mile. Open every day 24/7 (but closes at sunset in winter). Free entry.
What to see
Grave of Greyfriars Bobby:the dog who watched over his owner's grave for 14 years (1858-1872). His bronze statue is at the entrance of the cemetery (another statue is in the nearby pub). His grave is near the entrance, with a small red headstone.
The grave of Thomas Riddell:inspired J.K. Rowling for the name of Tom Riddle (Voldemort). Located on the southeast side.
William McGonagall:considered the worst English poet. His grave is in the northwest corner.
The Covenanters' Prison:a enclosure on the west side where 1,200 religious prisoners were confined in 1679. Many died of hunger and cold. It is said that the cemetery is haunted by the "Mackenzie Poltergeist" (a violent spirit). Fainting and unexplained scratches have been reported.
The "Black Mausoleum":tomb of the Mackenzie family. Closed to the public after visitors reported injuries.
Night tours (not recommended for the faint of heart)
There are paid tours (City of the Dead, £15) that take you into the Covenanters' Prison after sunset. Not suitable for children under 12.
Canongate Kirkyard (Royal Mile)
Located next to the Canongate Tolbooth (Museum of Edinburgh). Smaller and less frequented than Greyfriars. Buried here:Adam Smith(economist, "The Wealth of Nations") andDavid Rizzio(Italian secretary to Mary Queen of Scots, murdered at Holyroodhouse). Smith's tomb is a simple headstone that reads "The author of The Wealth of Nations". Free entry, always open.
St. Cuthbert's Churchyard (Princes Street Gardens)
Under the castle, on the edge of Princes Street Gardens. The only cemetery with a view of the castle. Many 18th-century artists and scientists are buried here. The church is from 1890 (but the cemetery is older). Quiet and less visited. Free entry.
Old Calton Burial Ground (Calton Hill)
On Calton Hill, but separate from the monument. Buried here are Scottish philosophers and politicians. The most famous grave is that ofDavid Hume(philosopher), a simple stone pyramid. A must-visit for lovers of the Enlightenment. Free entry.
Dean Cemetery (Dean Village)
Victorian cemetery, outside the city center (10 minutes walk from Dean Village). Well-kept gardens, neo-Gothic chapel, graves of wealthy industrialists. Less Gothic atmosphere, more peace. Open every day, free entry.
Tips for visiting cemeteries
Respect:they are still active burial sites. Do not walk on graves, do not leave litter, keep your voice low.
Hours:many close at sunset (in winter at 4:00 PM, in summer at 9:00 PM). Greyfriars is accessible 24/7 but the main gate is locked.
Footwear:cobblestones and uneven ground. Comfortable shoes.
Photography:allowed, but no flash (out of respect). Do not use tombs as a backdrop for extravagant selfies.
Legends and curiosities
The Mackenzie Poltergeist:since 1999, over 500 people have reported fainting, scratches, and the sensation of being pushed. Some tours have recorded voices and shadows. Science explains it with infrasound (low-frequency vibrations) and suggestion.
Greyfriars Cemetery inspired Harry Potter:in addition to Riddell and McGonagall, there are graves with the names "Moodie" (Alastor Moody) and "Potters" (a Potter family buried there).
Is the dog Bobby buried in the cemetery?No, he is buried right at the entrance, but his gravestone has been removed for preservation. Today there is a smaller stone.
FAQ
Is Greyfriars Kirkyard open on Sundays?
Yes, every day. In winter, it closes at sunset (check the time on the gate).
Are the night tours really scary?
They are theatrical, but there are no actors jumping out. They tell true stories of imprisonment and death. Some sensitive visitors have had physical reactions.
Can I visit Greyfriars with small children?
Yes, during the day. Avoid the night tour. Children might get scared by the poltergeist stories.
How long does it take to visit Greyfriars?
1 hour for a leisurely walk, 2 hours if you read all the gravestones.
Are there public restrooms?
No. The nearest ones are at the National Museum of Scotland.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, on a leash. Please pick up after them.
Which cemetery is the most photogenic?
Greyfriars (gothic atmosphere) and Dean Cemetery (elegant Victorian).
Is it true that Greyfriars is haunted?
There is no scientific evidence. But many visitors report strange sensations. You decide.
Visit them with respect
Holidaysin Edinburghtake on a deeper meaning when you explore its historic cemeteries. They are not macabre places, but stone archives that tell stories of lives, deaths, and legends. Greyfriars, with its history of imprisonment and the famous dog Bobby, is a must-see. Canongate offers peace and the graves of philosophers. Dean Cemetery is a lesson in Victorian funerary art. Visit them with respect, comfortable shoes, and an open mind to the stories – true or alleged – that linger among the gravestones.
For a complete overview of periods, itineraries, budgets, and transportation in the Scottish capital, check out our complete guide to holidays in Edinburgh.
Review date:March 21, 2026