Greyfriars takes its name from the Franciscan friary that originated on the site, which was dissolved in 1559. The churchyard was founded in 1561, to replace the churchyard at St Giles, which was considered full. Over 1200 Covenanters were imprisoned in a field to the south of the churchyard after their defeat. When, in the 18th century, part of this field was amalgamated into the churchyard as vaulted tombs the area became known as the "Covenanters' Prison". These either have solid stone walls or iron railings and were created as a deterrent to graverobbing, which had become problematic in the 18th century. The Greyfriars Cemetery is reputedly haunted. The most famous spirit is that of the infamous 'Bloody' George Mackenzie, buried here in 1691. The 'Mackenzie Poltergeist' is said to cause bruising, bites and cuts on those who come into contact with it and many visitors have reported feeling strange sensations.

Payment Accepted:

Last edited on May 26, 10 12:48 PM.
Contributors: Kate H. , Christa Show History

[Flag as duplicate]

[Edit Info]

WRITE REVIEW

First To Review:

Tina

336

Ils J.

Aug 29, 2010

When you arrive at the churchyard the atmosphere is very strange, it is almost if you feel that there is a presence of poltergeists and ghosts! :-))) The cemetry is very dark and I expected it to be larger, but it is a must to see when visiting Edinburgh. At the entrance of the churchyard you can book a tour (or somewhere else in the centre of the city) which visit the cemetry at night and tell ghostly stories ... CREEPY!!! :-)

Comment

Was this helpful?

(0)

1216

587

Kate H.

May 26, 2010

You can take a tour of the Kirkyard with the City of the Dead tours, and you’ll actually get to go inside the Black Masoleum where the poltergeist is said to be found. I did a tour on Halloween night, and it was creepy, but considering over 100 people joined me on the tour that night it kind of lost some of its appeal. I’ll definitely do it again some day when there are less people around to get the full effect!

Comment

Was this helpful?

(0)

Jean-Pierre A.

Jul 16, 2011

An interesting walk, with many of Edinburgh's "walking tours" passing through. Most of the tours are free, and don't mind if you simply join in as you find them, but always a good idea to ask first.

Also worth a visit id Bobby's bar, on the right of the main entrance to the Kirkyard.

Comment

Was this helpful?

(0)

Stephanie R.

Jan 21, 2012

Beautiful church with a beautiful graveyard! Great story about Greyfriar's Bobby! Loyal to his master even long after his death!!! What a story!!! Definitely worth visiting!!!

Comment

Was this helpful?

(0)

Patricia R.

Oct 6, 2008

We were there at night on a tour - it was scary and cold but exactly what you'd hope for... it has so much history... it was awesome

Comment

Was this helpful?

(0)

Travel insurance from Worldnomads.com