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Halloween in Scotland
Scotland’s Halloween traditions
Hallowe’en, All-Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Eve, Allhalloween ...
However it’s known to you, Halloween has its roots in the Gaelic festival of Samhain, first attested in the 16th century. The word Halloween itself is Scottish, and derives from the Scots shortening of All-Hallows Eve.
Robert Burns, whose ‘Halloween’ poem was published in 1786, said this time of year was ‘thought to be a night when witches, devils, and other mischief-making beings are all abroad on their baneful midnight errands’.
While today Halloween often conjures up images of pumpkins, Scottish traditions included the carving of a very different foodstuff. Find out more in our list of 6 Scottish Halloween traditions, some of which may be a bit of a surprise!
The Trust cares for many objects associated with some of Scotland’s spookiest stories. From the portrait of Lady Margaret Duff at Brodie Castle to the bone-chilling bezoar of Brodick Castle, discover these petrifying pieces that our curators have uncovered in the darker corners of our places.
Ghosts of Scotland
Watch out! There are ghosts about!
We have a lot of ghost stories associated with our places, and many members of our staff have revealed their own eerie encounters with the spirits of Scotland.
Will you spot the ghosts of Clan MacDonald on the dramatic mountain landscape of Glencoe? Or catch a glimpse of the Grey Lady in the Tapestry Gallery of Falkland Palace?
Plan your ghost tour today at one of our many haunted houses and and check out these spine-chilling Scottish ghost stories!
As well as ghosts, we also have links to the spooky and supernatural – from wood carvings and photographs to glorious pumpkin patches – at many of our properties. Discover our Halloween hidden secrets
Halloween recipes
In the mood for some wicked Halloween food? You’ll love trying these hauntingly healthy and ghoulishly good recipes!
Autumnal recipes, from soups to martinis
Want even more ideas for tasty treats? If you’re carving a Halloween pumpkin this year, use the flesh and seeds to make this delicious Creamy Pumpkin & Lentil Soup.
For a spooky sweet treat, these Bone-chilling Boo-nana Lollies, coated in coconut, are a healthier Halloween treat for children – and they’ll have lots of fun making them as well.
Need something to wash it all down? This Eerie Eyeball Punch is a great Halloween party idea that’ll definitely prove a hit.
