When visitors first arrive in Edinburgh they are amazed to find an old city frozen in time. Known for its endless wonders, Edinburgh offers an array of history and culture, setting the scene for the perfect ghost story and providing a picturesque backdrop for a good scare, sometimes whether you want it or not.

The city’s Old Town is the ideal place to begin your hunt. All you need to do is walk the cobblestone streets to uncover secrets of the past and find yourself face to face with one of the city’s many famous haunted locales, no tour guide required. The ancient Royal Mile is dotted with haunted pubs and local folklore warns of the ghosts dwelling in mysterious buildings with secret doors and closes.

From there, head into the Grassmarket and stand on the spot where witches cast their spells, or check out one of the many bars and restaurants, each with its own story to tell about its haunted past. Those brave enough can visit nearby Cowgate and explore the vaults of Edinburgh’s underground city where small cellar-type rooms would house large working families, and where people now report hearing strange noises coming from deep inside the stone walls.

The city also features a number of buildings rumoured to be haunted, some with stories that have been told for hundreds of years. If you’re looking to write your own ghost story, one of the city’s many graveyards with tombstones dated back to the 1600s can provide inspiration and there are plenty of other haunted spots all over Edinburgh to keep you busy.

Once you’re finished exploring and taking in the sights, head to one of the city’s many pubs and let the locals point you further in the right direction. Whether on a proper ghost hunt or simply searching for an old fashioned scare, Edinburgh’s haunted pubs will give you exactly what you’re looking for. Make new friends and enjoy your favourite pint while listening to their own personal ghost stories.

Ghost stories have long been a favourite with young and old people alike. Graveyards and haunted houses attract those brave enough to have a look, and Edinburgh has been the inspiration for many famous books and movies on the supernatural. Jump on any one of the London to Edinburgh trains and before you know it you’ll be in the middle of your very own ghost story.

Mildred potts writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.