Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh - View from Greyfriars Kirkyard in autumn.
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Greyfriars Kirkyard Edinburgh

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic Edinburgh kirkyard famed for the loyal dog Greyfriars Bobby, alleged hauntings, and potential Harry Potter inspirations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Quieter, more reflective visits

CrowdLow
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Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh - View from Greyfriars Kirkyard in autumn.

Greyfriars Kirkyard Edinburgh

Best Time

Early mornings

Quieter, more reflective visits

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Edinburgh kirkyard famed for the loyal dog Greyfriars Bobby, alleged hauntings, and potential Harry Potter inspirations.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A must-see for Harry Potter fans and paranormal enthusiasts, with a heartwarming tale of loyalty."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

Take your time to explore the intricate gravestones and artwork. Many have fascinating stories.

👻 Ghost Tour Option

Consider a ghost tour for spooky tales and historical insights, especially around Halloween.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Greyfriars Bobby's Grave

Greyfriars Bobby's Grave

Greyfriars Kirkyard

The touching memorial to the loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his master's grave for 14 years. A true Edinburgh legend.

Harry Potter-Inspired Gravestones

Harry Potter-Inspired Gravestones

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Seek out tombs bearing names like Potter, McGonagall, and Riddle, fueling the imagination of fans worldwide.

The Black Mausoleum

The Black Mausoleum

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Home to the reportedly restless spirit of Sir George Mackenzie, this tomb is locked to protect visitors from its alleged paranormal activity.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Harry Potter Magic

Many visitors flock to Greyfriars Kirkyard for its alleged Harry Potter connections. While J.K. Rowling never confirmed direct inspiration, the presence of names like Potter, McGonagall, and Riddle on gravestones fuels the imagination. Explore these famous tombs and soak in the atmosphere that might have inspired the wizarding world. Instagram+2

Respect the History and Spirits

This ancient kirkyard is not just a tourist spot; it's a resting place with centuries of history and, according to local lore, a resident poltergeist. Be mindful of the gravestones, especially the infamous Black Mausoleum, and tread respectfully. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Quieter, more reflective visits
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Atmospheric light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The perfect Edinburgh Scotland Itinerary! It’s like Hogwarts in real life and is even better than I imagined!! Here are some of my favorite things to do during a weekend in Edinburgh! P.s. While we do mentiom Harry Potter a few times, we do not support JK and she makes no money off of this!! #e#edinburghs#Scotlands#scotlandtravele#edinburghscotlandh#harrypotterh#hogwartsd#diagonalleyw#weekendg...
@followmeaway
240.9K likes • 4.4M views

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

Take your time to explore the intricate gravestones and artwork. Many have fascinating stories. Reddit

👻 Ghost Tour Option

Consider a ghost tour for spooky tales and historical insights, especially around Halloween. InstagramReddit

Sitting at the edge of Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard, you’ll see a unique and initially unassuming tomb. This tomb is now permanently locked… but that lock is not to protect the tomb from visitors - it’s to protect visitors from what’s in the tomb… #scotland #scottish #Edinburgh #lovescotland
my.scottish.journal
63.9K likes • 864K views
Stirling Castle and Edinburgh City of Dead Tour. Visit Crypts and Greyfriars Kirkyard. Lots of history and maybe a few ghosts. We say a ghost on our tour #scotland #3daytravels #edinburgh #travel
3_day_travels
1 likes • 7 views

📚 Research Before You Go

Look into the Edinburgh & Scottish Library for monumental inscriptions or find books on local graves. Reddit

🤫 Be Respectful

Remember this is a cemetery. Keep noise levels down and avoid disturbing the peace. Reddit

Having a witchy day in Edinburgh! dress: @sondeflor 📍Greyfriars Kirkyard 📍@blackmoonbotanica witchy shop 📍@theelephant.house , Victoria Street 📍@thewitcheryedin 📍@museumofmagicfortunewitchcraft 📍Museum Context, Harry Potter #witchesofinstagram #witchyvibes #witchy #Edinburgh #visitscotland #edimburgo #scotlandtravel #potterhead #hogwarts #scottish #Scotland #scotspirit #outandaboutscotland #edin...
scotlandhiddenadventures
508.8K likes • 10.3M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

Take your time to explore the intricate gravestones and artwork. Many have fascinating stories. Reddit

👻 Ghost Tour Option

Consider a ghost tour for spooky tales and historical insights, especially around Halloween. InstagramReddit

📚 Research Before You Go

Look into the Edinburgh & Scottish Library for monumental inscriptions or find books on local graves. Reddit

🤫 Be Respectful

Remember this is a cemetery. Keep noise levels down and avoid disturbing the peace. Reddit

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

The kirkyard offers unique photo opportunities, especially with its historic architecture. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historically rich and atmospheric cemetery, drawing visitors with its tales of loyalty, alleged hauntings, and potential Harry Potter inspirations. While many appreciate the intricate gravestones and the touching story of Greyfriars Bobby, some find the crowds and the upkeep of the cemetery to be drawbacks. Reddit

"Known as the most haunted graveyard in the entire world, this 400-year-old resting place has played a role in many of Edinburgh’s most important historic chapters. Today, however, this graveyard is most famously known for a little dog that’s buried here, called Greyfriars Bobby. It’s a story that will melt your heart.

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a large graveyard that surrounds the historic Greyfriars Kirk. Kirk is the old Scottish word for a church.

It’s was established as a burial area during the reign of Mary Queen of Scots. Ever since then it has seen over 100,000 people buried here!

They were called Greyfriars as they wore grey robes – hence where the Kirk and Graveyard get their names!

The most famous grave here is actually not that of a person but of a little Skye Terrier dog. His name is Greyfriars Bobby! As well as Greyfriars Bobby, fans of the Harry Potter books flock here in droves every year.

a lot of people know that The Elephant House Cafe was a regular haunt for J.K.Rowling and is now known as the “birthplace of Harry Potter”.

this graveyard is only a short walk away from the café! So, it’s not too farfetched a theory to think Rowling strolled through here.

Although she has never admitted it, it seems as though she was inspired by the names of tombstones in the kirkyard and ended up using them in her stories! So, you’ll recognize many famous characters on the tombs like Potter, McGonagall, Moodie, Charles Black, and even Tom Riddle"

Sanjay Gupta

"What an amazing, historic treasure. The stones were incredible. Definitely a place to wander and take time to look at all artwork of the memorial stones."

Amy Durant

"Walking inside this graveyard made me wonder how many people died and buried. Some were famous and people got to remember them because of their status and some were just forgotten. Life is short and do good to those around you, they will always remember it afterwards."

A Alhammadi

What People Like

Historic atmosphere
Greyfriars Bobby story
Harry Potter connections

What People Dislike

Crowds
Cemetery upkeep

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Greyfriars Kirkyard is centrally located in Edinburgh, easily accessible on foot from the Royal Mile. It's a short walk from many city center attractions. If arriving by public transport, numerous bus routes stop nearby on George IV Bridge or Chambers Street. TikTok

On-street parking is very limited and expensive in this central Edinburgh location. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk. The nearest multi-story car parks are the NCP Edinburgh Castle Terrace or the Quartermile car park. TikTok

Yes, many guided tours of Edinburgh include Greyfriars Kirkyard, often focusing on its history, ghost stories, or Harry Potter connections. Popular options include ghost tours and historical walks. InstagramReddit+1

Wandering at your own pace allows you to discover the many unique gravestones and stories. Alternatively, a guided tour can provide deeper historical context and highlight key points of interest. Reddit

The kirkyard has uneven surfaces and gravestones, which can make it challenging for those with mobility issues. Some areas may be difficult to navigate. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Greyfriars Kirkyard is generally free. You can wander through the grounds at your leisure. Reddit

The kirkyard is typically open daily from morning until early evening. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check the official Greyfriars Kirk website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

The statue of Greyfriars Bobby is publicly accessible. The adjacent museum and shop have their own opening hours and may have admission fees or require purchases. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during services or private ceremonies. TikTok

Visitors are asked to be respectful of the site as a place of remembrance. Avoid climbing on gravestones or causing damage. The Black Mausoleum is locked and should not be tampered with. InstagramReddit

🎫 👻 Onsite Experience

Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who loyally guarded his owner's grave for 14 years after his death. His devotion is commemorated by a statue and the nearby museum. Reddit

Fans believe names on gravestones like Potter, McGonagall, and Riddle inspired J.K. Rowling's characters. The kirkyard's atmosphere is also thought to have influenced the wizarding world. Instagram+3

Local legends and paranormal enthusiasts claim Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the most haunted places in Edinburgh, with tales of poltergeists, particularly around the Black Mausoleum. Instagram+2

The Black Mausoleum is the tomb of Sir George Mackenzie, a 17th-century judge nicknamed 'Bloody Mackenzie.' It's said to be haunted, and the tomb is now locked to prevent visitors from disturbing its alleged paranormal activity. Instagram

Yes, besides Greyfriars Bobby, the kirkyard is the final resting place for many notable figures, including members of the Adam family of architects, physicians from the University of Edinburgh, and various churchmen and statesmen. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire kirkyard offers atmospheric shots. Focus on the intricate gravestones, the Greyfriars Bobby statue, and the imposing Black Mausoleum for dramatic effect. The surrounding architecture also provides great backdrops. TikTok

It's generally acceptable to photograph gravestones for personal memories, but always be respectful. Avoid intrusive close-ups of names or dates if it feels disrespectful, and never climb on them. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, creating a more atmospheric and less harsh photographic environment. Golden hour can be particularly magical. TikTok

Yes, many visitors seek out gravestones with names like Potter, McGonagall, and Riddle for their Harry Potter-themed photos. The overall gothic ambiance of the kirkyard also lends itself to magical-themed shots. Instagram+1

While not explicitly forbidden, using a tripod might be discouraged due to the narrow paths and the need for respectful movement. It's best to be discreet and avoid obstructing others. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Greyfriars Kirkyard offers a unique blend of history and legend that can captivate younger visitors. The heartwarming story of Greyfriars Bobby is particularly engaging for children, with the statue serving as a focal point. For Harry Potter fans, the hunt for character-named gravestones can turn a cemetery visit into an exciting adventure. Instagram+1

While the atmosphere is generally respectful, it's important to remind children to tread carefully and be mindful of the surroundings. The open space allows for some freedom to explore, but always keep an eye on them. Consider a family-friendly ghost tour that balances spooky stories with historical context, making it more appropriate for younger audiences. Instagram

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those drawn to the supernatural, Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must-visit. Its reputation as one of the most haunted cemeteries in the world, particularly due to the Black Mausoleum and the legend of 'Bloody Mackenzie,' makes it a prime location for ghost hunters. Instagram+1

Many Edinburgh ghost tours specifically focus on the kirkyard's spectral inhabitants, offering detailed accounts of alleged hauntings and paranormal experiences. Visitors can explore the grounds, seeking out areas known for unusual activity and soaking in the eerie atmosphere that has fueled these tales for centuries. Reddit

⚡ Harry Potter Fans

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a pilgrimage site for many Harry Potter enthusiasts. The allure lies in the gravestones bearing names like Potter, McGonagall, and Riddle, which are widely believed to have inspired characters in the beloved book series. Instagram+3

Visitors often spend time searching for these specific tombs, creating a real-life scavenger hunt. The overall gothic and historic ambiance of the kirkyard also contributes to the magical feel, making it a popular stop on Harry Potter-themed tours of Edinburgh. It's a chance to connect with the potential real-world origins of the wizarding world. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Greyfriars Bobby

The story of Greyfriars Bobby is a beloved Edinburgh tale that resonates deeply with visitors. Bobby was a Skye Terrier who, after his owner John Gray passed away in 1858, spent the next 14 years faithfully guarding his grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard. He became a local fixture, with the local police constable ensuring he was fed and cared for. His unwavering loyalty earned him a place in the hearts of the city's residents and eventually, a statue erected in his honor near the kirkyard entrance. Reddit

Today, the statue of Greyfriars Bobby is a popular meeting point and a symbol of devotion. The nearby museum and shop further elaborate on his heartwarming story, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a touch of local charm and a reminder of the enduring power of loyalty. Many visitors find this story incredibly touching and a highlight of their visit. Reddit

Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Wizarding World

For fans of the Harry Potter series, Greyfriars Kirkyard offers a tangible connection to the magical world. While J.K. Rowling has never officially confirmed direct inspiration from specific gravestones, the presence of names like 'Potter,' 'McGonagall,' 'Riddle,' and 'Black' on ancient tombstones has fueled widespread speculation. Visitors often spend time searching for these names, imagining them as the real-life counterparts to their favorite characters. Instagram+3

The atmospheric and historic nature of the kirkyard itself is also believed to have contributed to the overall ambiance of the wizarding world. The winding paths, ancient stones, and sense of history create a mood that many fans find reminiscent of Hogwarts and its surroundings. This has made Greyfriars Kirkyard a popular stop on Harry Potter-themed tours of Edinburgh, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the potential origins of their beloved stories. TikTokInstagram

The Haunting Tales of Greyfriars

Greyfriars Kirkyard has earned a reputation as one of Scotland's most haunted locations, largely due to the infamous Black Mausoleum. This imposing tomb is the final resting place of Sir George Mackenzie, a 17th-century Lord Advocate known for his harsh persecution of Covenanters, earning him the nickname 'Bloody Mackenzie.' Legend has it that his malevolent spirit remains restless, causing poltergeist activity. Instagram

Reports of unexplained scratches, bites, bruises, and even possessions have been associated with the mausoleum, leading Edinburgh Council to eventually lock it. Many ghost tours in Edinburgh include Greyfriars Kirkyard, delving into these chilling tales and other spectral sightings within the cemetery. Visitors interested in the paranormal often find the kirkyard a fascinating, albeit eerie, place to explore. InstagramReddit+1

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