Folklore in Aberdeen

Aberdeen, a historic port city on Scotland’s northeastern coast, is steeped in folklore and fascinating tales passed down through generations. Known as the “Granite City” for its distinctive stone buildings, Aberdeen and its surrounding areas are rich with stories of mythical creatures, ghostly encounters, and ancient customs that reflect Scotland’s deep-rooted cultural heritage.

Folklore Highlights in Aberdeen
The Green Lady of Fyvie Castle: Fyvie Castle, a short drive from Aberdeen, is known for the legend of the Green Lady. The story goes that the spirit of Lady Meldrum, a 13th-century resident, haunts the castle in a green mist, appearing to visitors and often linked to stories of unrequited love and mystery. Fyvie Castle is also rumored to be home to a “Weeping Stone,” said to weep whenever tragedy is about to strike the family.

The Loch Ness of the Northeast – Loch Skene’s Monster: Just outside Aberdeen, Loch Skene has its own monster folklore. Though not as famous as Nessie, tales of a giant water creature lurking in the loch have persisted for centuries, adding an element of mystery and allure to the region’s waters.

The Witch Stones of Aberdeen: Aberdeen’s history with witch trials is hauntingly remembered in the Witch Stones found on the city’s Castlegate. During the 16th and 17th centuries, accused witches were condemned at Castlegate, and the stones now serve as a memorial to these tragic events, commemorating the individuals who suffered under the city’s witch hunts.

St. Machar’s Cathedral and the Legend of St. Machar: Legend has it that St. Machar, a companion of St. Columba, was instructed to build a church on the spot where a river bend resembled a bishop’s crozier. Today, St. Machar’s Cathedral stands as one of Aberdeen’s most historic landmarks, and its origins are entwined with this ancient legend.

Ghillie Dhu and Fairy Folklore: Like much of Scotland, Aberdeen’s folklore includes tales of the Ghillie Dhu, a friendly forest spirit known to help lost travelers and protect woodland areas. The Ghillie Dhu is said to live in forests near Aberdeen, blending in with trees and leaves, offering help to respectful wanderers and avoiding those with ill intent.

Ghostly Aberdeen: The city is known for its ghost stories, with notable hauntings at Tolbooth Museum, one of Scotland’s oldest jails, where prisoners from centuries past are said to roam. Visitors report ghostly apparitions and eerie sounds, adding to the mystery of this historic building.