The Banshee Labyrinth, located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, is part of the city’s extensive underground vaults system. Dating back to the 18th century, these vaults were originally used for storage by businesses operating on South Bridge. As conditions deteriorated due to poor ventilation and dampness, the vaults were abandoned and became a haven for criminals and the destitute.

The Banshee Labyrinth’s name stems from reported encounters with a banshee, a female spirit in Irish and Scottish folklore known for its mournful wail. According to legend, workers renovating the space heard a blood-curdling scream, and hours later, one of them received news of a family member’s death.

Numerous paranormal experiences have been reported within the Banshee Labyrinth. Visitors and staff have described hearing unexplained footsteps, disembodied voices, and witnessing objects moving on their own. Some have reported feeling a sense of unease or being watched, particularly in certain areas of the vaults.

One frequently reported apparition is that of a man in a tricorn hat and long coat, believed to be a former occupant of the vaults. Another common sighting is of a young boy, often seen running through the corridors before vanishing.

The Banshee Labyrinth’s history of suffering and crime has led to theories about residual hauntings. The damp, dark environment and the vaults’ connection to Edinburgh’s violent past contribute to its eerie atmosphere. The location’s layout, with its winding passages and numerous small rooms, adds to the unsettling experience reported by many visitors.