A range of frighteningly fun activities are happening across the city this Halloween
Halloween shenanigans will descend on Historic Scotland sites across Edinburgh this October with a range of spooktacular and family friendly events taking place across the country’s spookiest city.
Edinburgh Castle will become Edin-boo! Castle on Saturday 31 October with historic characters haunting the nooks and crannies of the castle. Look out for Mary Queen of Scots and James IV waiting to tell their grisly stories and secrets to any visitor brave enough to face them.
Step into a truly enchanting Halloween experience at Craigmillar Castle as it becomes Craig-thriller Castle on Saturday 31 October, giving Edinburgh residents and visitors the chance to meet the Master of Owls, who will introduce a captivating collection of owls set against the castle’s wonderfully eerie backdrop.
Along the way, encounter Ravina, ready to share chilling tales that will spark your imagination. Discover the story behind the legendary jack o’ lantern, and join in with Halloween riddles and songs that are sure to delight all ages. Keep your eyes open… there might even be a touch of magic in the air!
Kit Reid, Head of Experience at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said: “Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and haunting tales, so what better way to spend Halloween than by getting stuck in at one of our iconic historic sites, which provide the perfect setting for a frightfully fun day out for all the family.
“Why not dive into the darker stories behind some of Edinburgh’s beloved historical places by meeting historical characters who will be stepping out of the shadows this weekend to share secrets of the past with anyone brave enough to meet them.
“We’re very excited to welcome visitors of all ages this Halloween to our sites where they can enjoy a ghoulishly good time!”
Halloween Shenanigans at Edin-boo! Castle is taking place from 11am to 3pm on Saturday 31 October at Edinburgh Castle.
Halloween Shenanigans at Craig-thriller Castle is taking place from 11:30am to 3pm on Saturday 31 October at Craigmillar Castle.
For further information and to plan your visit, head to
historicenvironment.scot/halloween.
Entry to daytime events is free for Historic Scotland members.
The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass also allows visitors to explore 5,000 years of history over 14 days. Entry to Edinburgh Castle and Craigmillar Castle, as well as other sites across Scotland, is free for Explorer Pass holders.
Advance booking is required.
