4 eerily fascinating sites to see in Edinburgh

One of the best things about Edinburgh is its history, and we’ve got the must-see sites for all daredevils and thrill-seekers who are ready to be spooked... 

Edinburgh is one of the most diverse and fascinating cities in the world, recently landing on Mercer Quality of Living’s list of the top 50 greatest cities in the world to live – one of only two UK representatives.

Arguably, the thing that makes Edinburgh so unique is its sense of mystery and rich history. From the imposing Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Yacht Britannia to the delightful Royal Mile, there is always a little slice of the past to discover wherever you wander throughout the city.

But there’s a darker side to Edinburgh’s history too – one that’s both unnerving and intriguing. Many people already know about the weaving catacombs below the city, where spirits of the dead are said to still wander. In fact, if you believe the words of Edinburgh’s many Ghost Walk guides there’s much, much more than meets the eye to the Scottish capital.

So, follow us as we explore some of the spooky, bleak and just plain intriguing locations in Edinburgh that you can easily visit from Quartermile . . . if you dare!

Abandoned lighthouse

Location: Western Harbour Breakwater

The Western Harbour was once a beacon jutting into the Firth of Forth, but has since been left to decay over decades. With its peeling paint, shattered windows, broken door and rusted outer shell, it truly has become a ruin. It makes for a striking sight to behold, so much so that it’s often a subject of bleak artistic photography and local historical study. But just don’t look too closely, in case you spy a shadow in the window!

Tram depot

Location: Shrubhill

First built in 1898, this depot was used up until the 1950s when tram travel first became the way to travel to and from the city from the suburbs. Once buses took over however, the depot was left to deterioriate and decay, after brief cameos as a bus depot and museum.

A monumental structure with red brick walls, steel girders and looming chimneys, it is awe-inspiring to see in the flesh. Reports are swirling that the depot’s exterior may soon be used to house apartments, so see this one while you can.

Old Jewish cemetery

Location: Newington

The old Jewish graveyard on the outskirts of Newington is so hidden you could probably pass it fifty times before even noticing it was there – but take the time to explore and you’ll be rewarded with a morbidly fascinating piece of history.

The small burial ground opened in 1816 and closed in 1870, but still houses the final resting places of four generations of Jewish families who settled in Edinburgh from the Low Countries and Germany. The gravestones are covered in Hebrew script, and act as a peaceful, solemn reminder of the past – hidden from the rest of the world.

Hidden railway tunnel

Location: Leith

Beneath the Great Junction Street bridge in Leith lies a piece of history almost completely forgotten. At first glance it appears to only be a path to a deserted bank, but history tells us there was once a Victorian railway tunnel stretching far beneath all the nearby houses, emerging in the now also-disused Leith Citadel station.

Although the tunnel itself is now inaccessible, you can still trace its route via map and see the ruins of one of its entrances. Most people have no idea of the miles and miles of forgotten passageways lying just beneath their feet.

There’s nothing scary or rundown about Quartermile luxury apartments

Although there’s no shortage of hauntingly beautiful locations in the capital, Quartermile certainly cannot be considered one of them. Fast-becoming Edinburgh’s most vibrant and exciting district, it is alive with the hustle and bustle of residents as they travel between home, work and the numerous cafes, bars, gyms and other amenities on their doorsteps.

If you’re ready to find out more about life in the beating heart of Edinburgh, why not book a viewing today by calling 0845 000 2525.