Ghost Tours of Scotland Get a Boost from the all Witches

Ghost Tours Scotland of Scottish castles may be a top lure to this land of dark and storied history. But witches are getting their due with a new Witch Trail that has opened to visitors seeking some added lore – seen and unseen. 

The idea of witchcraft has always held an important place in Scottish stories: from ancient legends to some of the most popular films and TV series of the present day. Now Scotland’s tales of witchcraft are being marked in ghost tours during the Year of Stories 2022 , and a new Witch Trail created by VisitScotland that highlights 15 locations across the country for visitors to explore year-round.

With Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022 in full swing and Halloween around the corner, there is no better time to delve into the rich tales surrounding so-called witches by exploring these locations all with links to themes associated with witchcraft that bring a love of nature and modern takes on the lore.

Whether in Scotland’s cities, National Parks or islands – visitors with a deep interest in the history around witchcraft and persecution of so-called witches in Scotland will find a range of ghost tours and guided walking tours that shine a light on this dark chapter of the country’s past. Ghost tours of Edinburgh are a popular place to start, or try the Real Women of Edinburgh tour to discover the stories of the fascinating women that reportedly walked the cobbled streets of Edinburgh as so-called witches. 

Ghost Tours Scotland

For tales of historical witchcraft, torture, spells and charms, look no further than Orkney, once a hotbed of allegations and accusations. Peer into Marwick’s Hole where those accuse of witchcraft were imprison at St Magnus Cathedral and walk in the footsteps of the condemn to Gallow’Ha on a guided tour with Spiritual Orkney. Or wander through the woods and along trails of the beautiful Cairngorms National Park with Strathspey Storywalks, tasting wild teas while listening to local stories of kings, witches, fairy folk and highwaymen. Tour guide, Sarah, will help visitors honor the memory of so-call witches by tuning into the quiet voices within the landscape.  

Ghost Tours and Witchy Wanderings:

Some other experiences on the map include:

Abbotsford: Sir Walter Scott’s home, Abbotsford, boasts one of the rarest collections of books on witchcraft. Visitors to the 19^th century writer’s stunning library can still see his treasure “Witch Corner” today.

East Neuk Seaweed: Seaweed has a key place in the healing legacy of Scotland and was likely used by the wise women of times gone by. East Neuk Seaweed offer workshops throughout Fife that highlight the healing properties and nutritional value of this sea vegetable.

Glen Dye School of Wild Wellness and Bushcraft: 

Visitors to Glen Dye School of Wild Wellness and Bushcraft have the chance to immerse themselves in all that the magical Aberdeenshire countryside has to offer, making it the perfect place to experience the therapeutic benefits of mother nature.

The Witchery by the Castle: 

Enjoy fine dining in a setting fill with history at The Witchery by the Castle. This unique and atmospheric hotel and restaurant that takes its name from the innocent women accuse of witchcraft on Castlehill. Or, as every aspiring witch and wizard needs to fuel their powers and there’s no better place than The Root of Magic in Glasgow to enjoy a bite or a tipple in style. 

Tuck into the “Monster Toastie of Monsters” in the Potions café, sip on “Worms Wart Soup” in the bar or brew up some magical concoctions in a Potions Cocktail Class.   For more mystical adventure check out the Witchcraft and Wizardry Escape Room.  In a classroom full of tricks, puzzles, challenges and spells, visitors must solve the mysteries to escape the grasps of the evil professor.  Those who make it out can reward themselves with a stroll through Stirling, a small city with a big history.