Headless Woman of Craignethan
Craignethan Castle stands amidst its ruined grandeur, a testament to the region's turbulent past. It's here that a headless woman has been spotted, her presence as elusive as it is intriguing. Some believe she might be Mary Queen of Scots, although her connection to the castle is unclear. Workmen have reported seeing a figure amidst the ruins and hearing disembodied voices. A lone visitor once heard a woman singing while in the caponier during the 1990s, yet another visitor nearby claimed to have heard nothing at all.
Delving into the history books, Craignethan Castle's significance becomes apparent. The castle's past is intertwined with Scotland's complex history, and it's no surprise that it's said to be haunted. A Historic Scotland work crew once reported hearing the sounds of a banquet coming from the hall, despite seeing no one there. These strange occurrences have left many wondering about the castle's secrets. While the identity of the headless woman remains a mystery, her presence has become an integral part of the castle's haunting legacy.
Craignethan Castle was built in the 16th century, during a time of great turmoil in Scotland.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Monks of Braidwood
Wooded area between Braidwood and Crossford, Braidwood
Deep in the woods that lie between Braidwood and Crossford, a haunting presence is said to linger. This spot was once home to a monastery, long since vanished, but the memory of it lives on in the form of ghostly apparitions and unexplained sounds. Locals claim to have heard the faint ringing of bells, a sound that seems out of place in the modern world. Some have even caught glimpses of a monk walking between the trees, a fleeting glimpse of a life long past.
Linnmill Inn Ghostly Car Door
Outside Linnmill Inn, Kirkfieldbank
Outside the charming Linnmill Inn in Kirkfieldbank, a rather eerie phenomenon has been reported. It's said that occupants of the building have heard a car door slam shut, but when they go to investigate, there's nothing to see. This strange occurrence is linked to a tragic event in 1912, which is believed to be the first fatal Scottish car accident. A woman lost her life after being run over just outside the inn.
The Blue Lady of Lanark
Cartland Bridge Hotel, Lanark
Cartland Bridge Hotel in Lanark is said to be haunted by the ghost of an old woman known as the Blue Lady. She is often seen wearing a veil covering her face, adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding her presence. The hotel, situated in the picturesque Lowlands, has a reputation for paranormal activity, with numerous reports of ghostly sightings. The Blue Lady is not alone in her haunting, as the spirit of a young child has also been spotted, leaving many to wonder about the history and stories behind these ghostly apparitions.
Lesmahagow Hospital Ghost
Birkwood psychiatric hospital, Lesmahagow
Birkwood psychiatric hospital in Lesmahagow is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former smoker. The hospital, which is no longer operational, was once plagued by strange occurrences. Staff reported that lights would turn on and off by themselves, and the sound of footfalls echoed down empty corridors. But it was the thick smell of cigar smoke that really caught their attention. It was as if someone had recently lit up, but there was no one around.
Katie Neevie's Hidden Hoard
A very large stone hidden on a farm in the area, Lesmahagow
Deep in the Lowlands of Scotland, near the town of Lesmahagow, lies a mysterious stone harbouring a legendary secret. The rhyme goes 'Between Dillerhill and Crossford, there lies Katie Neevie's hoord', sparking curiosity and fuelling speculation about the nature of this enigmatic hoard. It's said that Katie Neevie's treasure takes the form of gold hidden within a kettle, a boot, and a bull hide, cleverly concealed within a very large stone on a local farm.
The Black Lady of Broomhill
Broomhill House, Larkhall
Broomhill House in Larkhall is said to be haunted by the mysterious Black Lady, a presence that has been felt for many years. This dark form is believed to be the spirit of a lady who may have met a tragic end, possibly through murder, back in the late nineteenth century. Those who have encountered her report being greeted by the scent of spices and perfume, a potent reminder of her lingering presence.