The Stoned Man of Storr
Perched atop the rugged Trotternish Ridge, the Old Man of Storr stands sentinel, a towering monolith born from ancient volcanic activity. This natural wonder has a mystical aura, thanks to a local legend that has been etched into the fabric of island folklore. The story goes that a couple of unsociable ogres, tired of the old man's complaints, turned him to stone, condemning him to stand watch over the landscape for eternity.
Historical records of the Old Man of Storr date back to the 18th century, although the legend of the stoned man is likely much older. The area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich mythological heritage. According to local lore, fairies once stole horses from nearby farms, riding them at breakneck speeds around the area before returning them unharmed. While there's no concrete evidence to support these claims, the tales have become an integral part of the region's cultural identity.
The Old Man of Storr is a product of volcanic activity from the Palaeogene period, around 60 million years ago.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Dyeing Fairies of Ben Lomond
Green Loch, Ben Lomond
Green Loch, also known as An Lochan Uaine, is a beautiful and serene spot in the Highlands. But beneath its tranquil surface, a rather intriguing tale of fairies and their love of dyeing wool and cloth lies in wait. According to local legend, these mischievous fairies would happily oblige anyone who left their materials by the loch's side, taking great care to dye them the correct colour. That is, until one unfortunate soul left unclear instructions on what colour to dye some thread. The fairies, it seems, were not pleased with this lack of clarity and subsequently ceased their colourful endeavours for good.
Trottenish Decapitated Ghost
General area, Trottenish
In the rugged landscape of Trottenish on the Isle of Skye, a sinister presence has been reported for generations. This decapitated ghost, known as Colann gun Cheann, roams the area with a malevolent intent, searching for the living to terrorise. Its method of attack is particularly chilling - it would throw its severed head at its victims before attempting to kill them. The very thought of encountering such a terrifying entity sends shivers down the spine, and it's little wonder that this part of the Highlands is considered a place to be avoided after dark.
Portree Bridge Haunting
Bridge between Braes and Portree, Portree
The old bridge spanning the waters between Braes and Portree in the Scottish Highlands is said to be a hotspot for paranormal activity. Locals have long reported strange occurrences here, including eerie moaning sounds, the noise of a struggle, and shadowy figures darting about. These unexplained events were believed to foretell a murder at the site - a grim warning that seemed to hang in the air like a spectre. While the bridge may have been replaced or altered over the years, its reputation as a haunted spot remains.
Phantom Car Lights of Skye
Road between Portree and Sligachan, Portree, Isle of Skye
The stretch of road between Portree and Sligachan on the Isle of Skye has long been a site of puzzling paranormal activity. Locals and visitors alike have reported seeing the lights of an incoming car, only for them to suddenly vanish into thin air. It's as if a vehicle is approaching, but then it disappears without a trace. Some believe these lights belong to a car that fell from the ferry, while others suggest there may be two different phantom cars involved in this eerie phenomenon.
Prince Charles's Haunting Apparition
Prince Charles's Well, Portree, Isle of Skye
Prince Charles's Well, a humble spot on the winding road between Portree and Uig on the Isle of Skye, is said to be haunted by the apparition of Prince Charles himself. The day before his defeat at the Battle of Culloden, on 15 April 1746, the shade of Prince Charles was seen by the well, overcome with emotion, crying 'defeated'. This eerie manifestation of the living, a premonition of the impending disaster that would change the course of Scottish history, has been etched in local folklore for centuries.
Murdered Glaistig
, The Knap, aka the Lump
The Knap, a rugged coastal spot opposite Shuna Island, is said to be haunted by the restless spirit of a Glaistig, a female supernatural being from Scottish folklore. According to local legend, this Glaistig met a violent end after being stabbed by a member of Clan MacMillan, who she had confronted and interrogated. The Glaistig's untimely death has led to reports of paranormal activity in the area, with some claiming to have seen or sensed her presence.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Old Man of Storr
