Birkwood Castle, located in Lesmahagow, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, was originally constructed in the 17th century as a manor house. The current Gothic-style building dates to the 1860s when it was extensively renovated and expanded. The castle served as a family home for the McKirdy family until 1923 when it was sold to Lanarkshire County Council. It then functioned as a hospital for mentally ill patients until its closure in 2002.

The castle has gained a reputation for paranormal activity over the years. Several ghost sightings have been reported, including that of a young boy named Michael who is said to have fallen from a window to his death. Visitors and staff have claimed to hear his laughter echoing through the halls. Another frequently mentioned spirit is that of a cigar-smoking man, believed to be a former resident or patient, often spotted in the upper floors.

Other reported phenomena include the sound of children playing, unexplained footsteps, and doors slamming shut on their own. Some have described feeling a sense of being watched or experiencing sudden temperature drops in certain areas of the castle.

One of the most infamous stories involves a supposedly haunted doll that was found in the attic. Staff members reported that the doll would mysteriously change positions when left alone.

The castle’s dark history as a psychiatric hospital has contributed to its eerie reputation. Former patients are said to roam the corridors, with some visitors claiming to hear disembodied screams and moans. The basement area, in particular, is considered a hotspot for paranormal activity, with reports of shadow figures and unexplained noises.