Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic cemetery around Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh’s Old Town, with burials dating to the 16th century. Its memorials mark the lives of notable Scots, and the kirkyard is closely associated with the story of Greyfriars Bobby, the Skye terrier remembered for staying by his owner’s grave. Look for the names Thomas Riddell and William McGonagall on the gravestones, which are linked to Harry Potter characters, and take in views towards Edinburgh Castle as you walk among the monuments.
A burial ground with centuries of history
Greyfriars Kirkyard surrounds Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Burials began here in the 16th century, after the city’s existing burial ground at St Giles’ could no longer accommodate the growing population. The church was built between 1602 and 1620, on the grounds of a former friary. The name Greyfriars refers to the Franciscan friars who wore grey habits.
The kirkyard is associated with a pivotal episode in Scottish religious history. In 1638, local nobles signed the National Covenant here in opposition to proposed changes to the Church of Scotland by Charles I. Covenanters were later imprisoned nearby after their defeat. Guided walks can help explain this history alongside the stories attached to the graves.
Notable names on the gravestones
The memorials range from modest headstones to ornate sepulchral monuments. Among the people buried here are poet William McGonagall, architect William Adam and scholar George Buchanan. The inscriptions also draw visitors looking for names linked to fiction: Thomas Riddell and William McGonagall are associated with Tom Riddle and Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter books. Elizabeth Moodie is another name connected with a character from the series.
The gravestones are part of the kirkyard’s history, so take care around them as you look for particular names. Greyfriars is also associated with stories of hauntings, including those about Sir George Mackenzie, whose mausoleum is known as the Black Mausoleum. These tales are part of the place’s folklore, alongside its documented history.
The story of Greyfriars Bobby
At the entrance, a statue commemorates Bobby, a Skye terrier remembered for keeping watch by the grave of his owner, John Gray. The story says Bobby stayed there for 14 years. The dog was later buried in the kirkyard, near the man whose grave he guarded.
The statue stands outside the cemetery gates, so you can see it before or after your walk among the graves. Rubbing its nose is a local good-luck custom, though the kirkyard itself is a place of burial and calls for a considerate visit.
FAQ
Is Greyfriars Kirkyard free to visit?
The kirkyard is described as free to enter. Guided walks may be available separately.
How long do you need at Greyfriars Kirkyard?
Allow around 30 to 60 minutes for a walk through the kirkyard and time to look for notable graves.
Where is Greyfriars Kirkyard?
It is on Greyfriars Place in Edinburgh’s Old Town, around Greyfriars Kirk.
Which Harry Potter names can you find in the kirkyard?
Look for Thomas Riddell and William McGonagall. Their names are linked to Tom Riddle and Professor McGonagall.
