Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, Edinburgh
Historic Edinburgh cemetery famed for Covenanters, Greyfriars Bobby, haunting tales, and Harry Potter inspirations.
Greyfriars Kirkyard, established in 1562 in Edinburgh, is a historic cemetery renowned for its rich history, notable burials, and cultural significance. It surrounds Greyfriars Kirk and features famous graves such as that of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog, and Covenanters imprisoned during religious conflicts. The Kirkyard's atmospheric grounds inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and are a focal point for history, folklore, and haunting tales.
A brief summary to Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
- 26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit Greyfriars Bobby’s grave and statue near the entrance to experience the heartwarming story of loyalty.
- Explore the Covenanters’ Prison area to understand the religious conflicts that shaped Scottish history.
- Look for the distinctive iron mortsafes protecting graves from 18th-century body snatchers.
- Join a guided tour to discover the Kirkyard’s hidden stories and locate famous graves, including those linked to Harry Potter.
- Visit Greyfriars Kirk church during its open season (April to October) to see its historic interior and small museum.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Lothian Buses routes 23 and 27 connect central Edinburgh with stops near Candlemaker Row, about a 5-10 minute walk to Greyfriars Kirkyard. Services run every 10-15 minutes during the day. Tickets cost approximately £1.80–£2.00 GBP for a single fare.
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Walking
From Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, a 10-15 minute walk west along George IV Bridge leads directly to the Kirkyard entrance. The route is paved and accessible, passing historic Old Town streets.
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Tram and Walk
Take the Edinburgh tram to Princes Street stop, then walk about 15 minutes south through Princes Street Gardens and across George IV Bridge to reach Greyfriars Kirkyard. The tram fare is around £1.80–£2.00 GBP.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
Origins and Historical Foundations
Greyfriars Kirkyard was established in 1562 to replace the overcrowded St Giles cemetery, located just outside the city walls of Edinburgh at the time. The site was formerly a Franciscan monastery, which gave the Kirkyard its name, referencing the grey habits of the friars. As Edinburgh expanded, the graveyard became enveloped by the city, bordered notably by the Flodden Wall. Greyfriars Kirk, the adjacent church, was built starting in 1602 and opened in 1620, marking the first post-Reformation church construction in the city. The Kirkyard’s grounds have witnessed centuries of Edinburgh’s evolving religious and social history, including the signing of the National Covenant in 1638, a pivotal moment for Scottish Presbyterianism.The Covenanters and Their Legacy
The Kirkyard is famously linked to the Covenanters, a 17th-century Presbyterian movement resisting royal interference in church governance. After their defeat at the Battle of Bothwell Bridge in 1679, many Covenanters were imprisoned in a field within the Kirkyard, known as the Covenanters’ Prison. This grim history is commemorated by various monuments and graves, including the notorious tomb of George Mackenzie, known as 'Bluidy Mackenzie' for his harsh persecution of the Covenanters. His mausoleum is reputedly haunted, adding to the Kirkyard’s eerie atmosphere.Notable Burials and Cultural Inspirations
Greyfriars Kirkyard is the resting place of many prominent figures, including historian George Buchanan, James Hutton—the father of modern geology—and architect James Craig. The graveyard is also renowned for inspiring J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series; several tombstones bear names such as Tom Riddle and McGonagall, which Rowling reportedly used for her characters. The proximity of George Heriot’s School nearby is believed to have influenced the Hogwarts setting.Greyfriars Bobby: A Tale of Loyalty
One of the Kirkyard’s most beloved stories is that of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who loyally guarded his master John Gray’s grave for 14 years after the man’s death in the 19th century. Bobby’s grave lies near the Kirkyard entrance, close to a bronze statue erected in his honor in 1872. His story has become a symbol of devotion and is a major draw for visitors, with his statue’s nose polished shiny from countless touches.Atmosphere, Architecture, and Paranormal Legends
The Kirkyard’s layout features winding alleys, green lawns, and a mix of tombstones ranging from simple markers to elaborate Baroque mausoleums. The adjacent Greyfriars Kirk is a Gothic church with a rich architectural history, including a distinctive ‘double’ entrance porch reflecting its historical division into Old and New Greyfriars. The graveyard’s reputation as one of Scotland’s most haunted sites is bolstered by tales of poltergeists, particularly around Mackenzie’s tomb, and numerous ghost sightings. Protective iron cages called mortsafes, used to prevent body snatching in the 18th and 19th centuries, remain visible, adding to the historic character.Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance
Open 24 hours daily, Greyfriars Kirkyard offers a tranquil yet evocative setting for reflection, history, and storytelling. It serves as a cultural landmark blending Edinburgh’s religious, social, and literary heritage. Visitors can explore the Kirkyard independently or join guided tours that illuminate its many stories, from Covenanter struggles to ghostly legends and literary connections. The Kirkyard’s position within Edinburgh’s Old Town, adjacent to other historic sites, makes it a compelling destination for those interested in Scotland’s layered past and atmospheric urban landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.0 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.1 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
0.1 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Barrie's Close
0.3 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Flodden Wall
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
David Hume Statue
0.3 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Mercat Cross
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
0.4 km
Discover stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at The Vennel Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot that showcases the beauty of Scotland's capital.
Advocates Close
0.4 km
Explore the historic Advocates Close in Edinburgh, a charming alleyway rich in history and local culture, perfect for a leisurely stroll and discovery.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.4 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Lady Stair's House
0.4 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.4 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Of The Dead Tours
0.0 km
Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults and graveyards with expert guides blending history, atmosphere, and dark storytelling.
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
0.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s legendary loyalty tale at Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a historic pub serving real ales and classic Scottish hospitality.
National Museum of Scotland
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Ballie Ballerson
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at Ballie Ballerson, where cocktails and camaraderie come together in a whimsical pub setting.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.1 km
Discover the grave that inspired Lord Voldemort’s name in Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
Central Library
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s historic Central Library offers free access to rich collections, quiet study spaces, and vibrant community programs in a grand, welcoming setting.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
The Three Sisters
0.2 km
Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover the grandeur of McEwan Hall, a historic auditorium in Edinburgh that hosts cultural events and celebrates the city's rich heritage.
National Library of Scotland
0.2 km
Explore Scotland’s largest library on George IV Bridge, where priceless manuscripts, exhibitions, and a vibrant cultural heritage await.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
61 Grassmarket
0.2 km
Historic 61 Grassmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town blends centuries of market heritage, dramatic history, and vibrant culture beneath Edinburgh Castle’s watchful gaze.
Victoria St
0.3 km
Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
The Cadies & Witchery Tours
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s dark past through thrilling, theatrical walking tours blending history, mystery, and spooky fun on Victoria Street.
Supreme Courts
0.3 km
Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Essential places to dine
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.1 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Under The Stairs
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.1 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.3 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Beehive Inn
0.3 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Amber Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.4 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Makars Mash Bar
0.4 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Whiski Rooms
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
The Devil's Advocate
0.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Olde Edinburgh
0.3 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Heritage of Scotland
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
0.3 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Galaxy
0.4 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Fringe Shop
0.4 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.4 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Godiva
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.4 km
A compact Old Town shop blending kilts, tartans and practical Scottish gifts within a historic South Bridge streetscape.
The Scotland Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Frankenstein
0.1 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.1 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Bow Bar
0.3 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Captain's Bar
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Copper Still
0.4 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.5 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Dragonfly
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
56 North
0.5 km
Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.5 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The World's End
0.6 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.7 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Legends
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.4 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Club Tropicana
0.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
