Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh?
What makes it 85% Solo-Friendly: Greyfriars is open 24 h, free, and rich in history, sculpture, and ghost lore, so a solo traveller can wander at will or join a small paid tour without worrying about toilets, timing, or companions.
Positives:
- Free admission: Entry to the Kirkyard and Bobby statue is free and open 24/7.
- Flexible hours: Visit day or night to match your schedule.
Challenges:
- No facilities: The Kirkyard has no toilets or visitor centre; plan ahead for breaks.
- Uneven terrain: Paths and graveside areas are uneven—sturdy footwear is essential.
What is Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh?
- A historic burial ground established in 1561 around Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh’s Old Town
- A repository of Scottish heritage showcasing 17th- and 18th-century tombs, monuments and wrought-iron mortsafes
- Site associated with the Greyfriars Bobby memorial and adjoined by the Covenanters’ Prison wall
What is so special about Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh for solo trip?
- Free self-guided exploration of centuries-old graves and monuments
- Iconic Greyfriars Bobby statue with a touching vigil story
- Intimate solo experience of ornate headstones and iron mortsafes
- After-dark ghost tours to meet fellow travelers and hear paranormal lore
- Flexible 24/7 hours let you explore at your own pace
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Solo visitors can wander the Kirkyard at their own pace and join a short ghost tour without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
Self-guided exploration & photography:
Wander the Kirkyard’s lanes, read gravestone inscriptions, and capture ornate plaques and iron mortsafes.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for uneven paths and bring a wide-angle lens.
Haunted Kirkyard ghost tour:
Join a 2-hour after-dark walk to hear paranormal tales and local legends.
Tip: Book ahead and carry a small torch for dim sections.
Greyfriars Bobby statue:
See the Skye Terrier monument outside the main gate and learn Bobby’s vigil story.
Tip: Drop a coin beneath the statue for tradition and visit early to avoid crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
- Combine nearby sights: Pair your visit with the National Museum of Scotland across the road for a warm rest stop.
- Use an audio guide app: Download a free self-guided cemetery audio tour to learn stories offline.
- Visit off-peak: Arrive early morning to avoid tour group crowds and get clear photos.
Reviews of Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
Sam Neil Paul
This cemetery in Edinburgh is absolutely jaw dropping in its beauty and historical significance. The tombs, mausoleums and graves are a sight to behold, with some going as far back as the 17th century. I walked through multiple times during my visit just for how peaceful and interesting the place is. Highly recommend!
Amy Durant
What an amazing, historic treasure. The stones were incredible. Definitely a place to wander and take time to look at all artwork of the memorial stones.
A Alhammadi
Walking inside this graveyard made me wonder how many people died and buried. Some were famous and people got to remember them because of their status and some were just forgotten. Life is short and do good to those around you, they will always remember it afterwards.
Sanjay Gupta
Known as the most haunted graveyard in the entire world, this 400-year-old resting place has played a role in many of Edinburgh’s most important historic chapters. Today, however, this graveyard is most famously known for a little dog that’s buried here, called Greyfriars Bobby. It’s a story that will melt your heart. Greyfriars Kirkyard is a large graveyard that surrounds the historic Greyfriars...
Juliaa Barańska
Magical place for harry potter fans or paranormal phenomenon enthusiasts. The story about the doggy is so cute!! Also some people believe there are ghosts!! The cemetery is small so you don't need a guide but it's good to know the story🤭
When is the best time to visit Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Paths can get slippery in rain or frost—wear waterproof shoes. In winter, dusk falls early so start ghost tours sooner. Summer offers long daylight hours ideal for photography.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided visit | GBP 0 |
| Haunted walking tour | GBP 15 |
| Coffee nearby | GBP 3 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 18 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
Address: Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh EH1 2QQ, UK
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About Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 664 431410 BEST nearby Activities
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