Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh - View from Greyfriars Kirkyard in autumn.
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Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh

4.6
·71 reviews·, United Kingdom

Edinburgh's historic Greyfriars Kirkyard: a place of loyal dogs, restless spirits, and magical inspirations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh - View from Greyfriars Kirkyard in autumn.

Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Edinburgh's historic Greyfriars Kirkyard: a place of loyal dogs, restless spirits, and magical inspirations.

4.6
(71 reviews)

"A must-visit for history buffs, Harry Potter fans, and anyone seeking a touch of the supernatural."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 Don't Touch Bobby's Nose

Locals strongly advise against rubbing Greyfriars Bobby's nose for luck. Preserve the statue! :pray:

👻 Embrace the Ghost Stories

Many visitors report eerie experiences. Keep an open mind and enjoy the haunted history! :ghost:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Outside Greyfriars Kirk

The beloved statue of a loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his owner's grave for 14 years. A true symbol of devotion.

The Black Mausoleum

The Black Mausoleum

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Home to the alleged restless spirit of Sir George Mackenzie, 'Bloody Mackenzie.' Visitors report strange occurrences.

TikTok
Harry Potter Connections

Harry Potter Connections

Various gravestones in Greyfriars Kirkyard

Find gravestones that may have inspired J.K. Rowling's iconic characters, like Tom Riddle.

TikTokInstagram
Covenanters' Prison

Covenanters' Prison

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Explore the atmospheric prison area where Scottish Covenanters were held captive in the 17th century.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Respect the History (and the Nose!)

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic site, not just a tourist spot. While the statue of Greyfriars Bobby is a must-see, resist the urge to rub his nose for luck. Locals and visitors alike emphasize preserving the integrity of the monument and its story. TikTok

Embrace the Spooky & Magical

This ancient graveyard is steeped in history, from Covenanter prisons to tales of Bloody Mackenzie and Harry Potter inspiration. Be prepared for a slightly eerie but fascinating experience. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Atmospheric light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique concert acoustics
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The story of Edinburgh's famous little dog, Greyfriars Bobby is so famous that Walt Disney even made a movie about it. But wee Bobby's statue has been under pressure for years from tourists who just can't resist rubbing his nose for good luck - despite constant requests to stop the tradition. The statue is a great little thing to see for free in Edinburgh, but please leave his nose alone. #greyfr...
@myveggietravels
360.2K likes • 3.6M views

🚫 Don't Touch Bobby's Nose

Locals strongly advise against rubbing Greyfriars Bobby's nose for luck. Preserve the statue! TikTok :pray:

👻 Embrace the Ghost Stories

Many visitors report eerie experiences. Keep an open mind and enjoy the haunted history! TikTok :ghost:

Why are these graves behind bars?? #creepytok #historytok #scottishtiktok
@shiverdarkhistory
180.1K likes • 2.4M views
Greyfriars Kirkyard is the graveyard surrounding Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh, Scotland. It has been said that some of the gravestones here may have given J. K. Rowling inspiration for some of her famous Harry Potter characters. Tourists now visit this graveyard to see the grave of Thomas Riddell, who died in 1806. His names was used as inspiration for the character of Tom Riddle - otherwise know...
anktravels_
167 likes • 2K views

⚡ Harry Potter Trail

Join a free walking tour to discover the graveyard's magical connections. TikTok :sparkles:

🗝️ Covenanters' Prison

Explore the historic prison area and learn about its dark past. TikTok :lock:

Nestled in the heart of the city’s beautiful Old Town, the church, Greyfriars Kirk, was founded in 1620 as the first church to be built in post-reformation Scotland. Burials in the graveyard surrounding the church have been taking place since the 16th century, resulting in it being the final resting place of a number of notable Edinburgh residents. Rumour has it that the names emblazoned on vari...
vanden.jpeg
216 likes • 4.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 Don't Touch Bobby's Nose

Locals strongly advise against rubbing Greyfriars Bobby's nose for luck. Preserve the statue! TikTok :pray:

👻 Embrace the Ghost Stories

Many visitors report eerie experiences. Keep an open mind and enjoy the haunted history! TikTok :ghost:

⚡ Harry Potter Trail

Join a free walking tour to discover the graveyard's magical connections. TikTok :sparkles:

🗝️ Covenanters' Prison

Explore the historic prison area and learn about its dark past. TikTok :lock:

🗺️ Graveyard Maps Available

Ask knowledgeable staff or look for maps to find specific graves. Reddit :map:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(71 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Greyfriars Kirk and its kirkyard for its rich history, atmospheric charm, and intriguing legends, from the loyal Greyfriars Bobby to the spooky tales of Bloody Mackenzie and Harry Potter inspirations. While the historical significance and unique stories are highly appreciated, some find the site can become crowded, and the upkeep of certain areas could be improved.

"Built on top of the old Franciscan Friary in Post-Reformation Scotland, Greyfriars Kirk is now celebrating its 400th year anniversary. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Greyfriars Kirk was founded in 1620 and is the first church to be built in post-Reformation Edinburgh

It’s still an active parish church here in the city and it welcomes tourists who wish to take a look around.

The interior architecture is gorgeous plus they also have a small exhibition about the history of the graveyard. The staff are more than happy to help answer any questions you have!"

Sanjay Gupta

"A nice church with a stunning greenery surrounding it. This is a nice piece of architecture and a pleasant spot to visit on a nice day."

Matt H

"Most famous of course for being the burial place of the famous Bobby and his police officer owner. But the Kirk is also beautiful in its own right and well worth a look. Entrance is free but donations are requested. The Kirk has a small museum."

Angus Hamilton

What People Like

Rich historical atmosphere
Greyfriars Bobby legend
Harry Potter connections

What People Dislike

Crowded at peak times
Graveyard upkeep concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Greyfriars Kirk is centrally located in Edinburgh's Old Town. You can easily walk from most city center hotels. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short taxi or rideshare away. TikTok

Parking in Edinburgh's Old Town is limited and often expensive. It's best to use public transport or walk. The nearest car parks are a short walk away. TikTok

While the graveyard is generally accessible, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the historical context. Some ghost tours operate in the evening. TikTok

Walking is the best way to explore. Consider joining a guided tour, especially one focused on history or Harry Potter, to get the most out of your visit. TikTok

The main church is generally accessible. However, the kirkyard itself has uneven terrain and gravestones, which can make wheelchair access challenging in some areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Greyfriars Kirk and the Kirkyard is generally free. Donations are appreciated to help with the upkeep of the church and its history. Reddit

The church typically has set opening hours, and the kirkyard is usually accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check the official Greyfriars Kirk website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, numerous guided tours are available, focusing on history, ghosts, and Harry Potter connections. Some are free (tip-based), while others are paid. TikTok

Photography is usually permitted inside the church for personal use, but it's always polite to check for any specific restrictions or ask a member of staff. TikTok

No, the Greyfriars Bobby statue is a public monument and can be viewed and photographed freely. TikTok

🎫 👻 Onsite Experience

Founded in the 16th century, Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Edinburgh's most historic cemeteries. It's known for its Covenanters' Prison, the grave of Greyfriars Bobby, and alleged hauntings. TikTokInstagram

The bars were installed to prevent body snatching, a common practice in Edinburgh's past. These are known as 'mort safes.' TikTok

The kirkyard is considered one of the most haunted places in Scotland, with tales of poltergeists, particularly around the Black Mausoleum of 'Bloody Mackenzie.' TikTok

Several gravestones bear names that inspired J.K. Rowling's characters, including Thomas Riddell (Tom Riddle) and others. TikTokInstagram

As a place of remembrance, it's important to be respectful. Avoid loud noises, littering, and touching gravestones unnecessarily. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Greyfriars Bobby statue, the Covenanters' Prison, and gravestones with interesting inscriptions are popular. The atmospheric lighting in the late afternoon is also great. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and around cemeteries. It's best to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions. TikTok

Late afternoon offers beautiful, atmospheric light. Early mornings can also be peaceful and less crowded for photography. TikTok

While general photography is allowed, be mindful of other visitors and the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography of individuals. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the kirkyard, while a prime lens can be good for detail shots of gravestones. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Greyfriars Kirkyard offers a unique blend of history and intrigue that can captivate older children. The story of Greyfriars Bobby is a great starting point, and the 'Harry Potter' connections are a huge draw for young fans. TikTok Consider joining a family-friendly tour that focuses on these aspects. TikTok

Be mindful that it is a cemetery, so encourage respectful behavior. The Covenanters' Prison and the tales of 'Bloody Mackenzie' can add a thrilling, albeit slightly spooky, element to the visit. TikTok+1 Ensure children are supervised, especially around uneven ground and older gravestones.

👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the supernatural, Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must-visit. The tales surrounding 'Bloody Mackenzie' and the Black Mausoleum are legendary, with numerous documented accounts of poltergeist activity. TikTok Many ghost tours specifically focus on the kirkyard's haunted reputation, offering deeper insights and potentially thrilling encounters. TikTok

Be prepared for an atmospheric and potentially chilling experience. While direct encounters are not guaranteed, the sheer history and the persistent legends create an undeniable sense of unease and excitement for paranormal enthusiasts.

📚 History Buffs

Greyfriars Kirk and its kirkyard are steeped in significant Scottish history. The site was central to the signing of the National Covenant in 1638, a pivotal moment in Scottish religious and political history. Instagram You can explore the Covenanters' Prison, where many faced harsh conditions. TikTok

Beyond the Covenanters, the graveyard holds the resting places of notable figures and offers a glimpse into centuries of Edinburgh life and death. The church itself, founded in 1620, is a beautiful example of post-Reformation architecture. Instagram Consider visiting the small exhibition within the Kirk for more historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Greyfriars Bobby

The story of Greyfriars Bobby is one of Edinburgh's most cherished tales. Bobby was a Skye Terrier who, after his owner John Gray died in 1858, spent the next 14 years faithfully guarding his master's grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard. His loyalty became legendary, and a statue was erected in his honor near the entrance to the graveyard. TikTok

While the story is heartwarming, visitors are urged to show respect. The constant touching of Bobby's nose by tourists has caused significant wear and tear on the bronze statue. Locals and preservationists emphasize that the true tribute is to remember Bobby's devotion, not to contribute to the statue's erosion. TikTok

This enduring legend continues to draw visitors from around the world, making the Greyfriars Bobby statue a poignant and iconic landmark in Edinburgh. It's a reminder of the deep bonds that can form between humans and animals. TikTok

Haunted History: Bloody Mackenzie and the Poltergeist

Greyfriars Kirkyard is renowned for its paranormal activity, with the Black Mausoleum being a focal point. This tomb is the resting place of Sir George Mackenzie, a 17th-century Lord Advocate known for his harsh persecution of Scottish Covenanters, earning him the nickname 'Bloody Mackenzie.' TikTok

Since the 1990s, numerous visitors and even tour guides have reported unsettling experiences near the Black Mausoleum, including scratches, bites, bruises, fainting, and even alleged possessions. These accounts have led to the mausoleum being locked by Edinburgh Council to protect the public from what is believed to be Mackenzie's malevolent spirit. TikTok

The 'Mackenzie Poltergeist' is considered one of the most documented cases of paranormal activity in the world. While some dismiss the stories, the sheer volume of reported incidents and the official locking of the tomb lend an undeniable air of mystery and dread to this part of the kirkyard. TikTok

Whispers of Magic: Harry Potter's Edinburgh Roots

J.K. Rowling spent time in Edinburgh, and it's widely believed that the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard provided inspiration for some of the magical world's most memorable characters and locations. Visitors often seek out specific gravestones that bear names eerily similar to those in the Harry Potter series. TikTokInstagram

The most famous connection is to Thomas Riddell, whose grave in the kirkyard is thought to have inspired the name Tom Riddle, Lord Voldemort's original identity. Other gravestones, like those of William McGonagall and Elizabeth Moodie, are also cited as potential inspirations for characters like Professor McGonagall and the Moodie family. TikTokInstagram

Exploring these graves adds a layer of enchantment to the historical site, drawing fans of the wizarding world to walk in the footsteps of Rowling's imagination. The 'Potter Trail' tours are particularly popular for highlighting these connections. TikTok

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