Greyfriars Kirkyard, located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, dates back to the 16th century when it opened in 1562 to replace the overcrowded cemetery at St. Giles. The kirkyard surrounds Greyfriars Kirk, a church built in 1620. It gained notoriety during the 17th century Covenanting period when it was used as a prison for captured Covenanters.

The most famous ghost said to haunt Greyfriars is the Mackenzie Poltergeist, associated with the tomb of Sir George Mackenzie. Known as “Bloody Mackenzie” for his persecution of Covenanters, his spirit is said to cause physical attacks, scratches, and bruises on visitors. The activity reportedly intensified after a homeless man broke into Mackenzie’s mausoleum in 1998.

Another notable specter is the ghost of a little dog named Bobby. According to legend, Bobby guarded his master’s grave for 14 years until his own death. Visitors have reported seeing Bobby’s ghost still faithfully watching over the grave.

The kirkyard is also said to be haunted by the spirits of executed Covenanters. Witnesses have described seeing apparitions in 17th-century clothing and hearing unexplained screams and moans.

Other reported phenomena include cold spots, unexplained mists, and the sensation of being watched or followed. Some visitors have claimed to feel unseen hands grabbing them or pushing them near certain tombs.

The White Lady of Greyfriars, believed to be the ghost of a woman buried alive during a plague outbreak, has been seen wandering among the graves in a white dress. Some accounts describe her as having no face.