Glasgow Ghouls, Ghosts and Gruesome Tales Tour

Discover Glasgow Ghouls, Ghosts and Gruesome Tales Tour, an engaging 2-hour walking adventure led by a lively local comedian. For $21.93 per person, this tour offers an entertaining peek into Glasgow’s darker history, including tales of grave robbers, witch trials, and haunted locations. Starting at Glasgow Cathedral and ending at Babbity Bowster pub, the route takes you through some of the city’s most storied sites, with each stop revealing chilling secrets and spooky legends.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of history, humor, and ghostly tales delivered by a guide renowned for his personable storytelling. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of macabre storytelling and light-hearted fun. With many stops at historic sites, the tour balances eerie tales with scenic city views and hidden street murals, making it an engaging experience for history buffs and casual explorers alike.

Key Points

• Two-hour walking tour exploring Glasgow’s haunted locations and dark history.
• Led by an energetic local comedian known for humor and storytelling.
• Visit notable sites including Ramshorn Graveyard, Tron Theatre, Necropolis, and Glasgow Cathedral.
• Free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund.
• Group size limited to 20 for a more personal experience.
• No transport included, so plan your arrival at the start point.

Starting at Glasgow Cathedral’s Castle Street

The tour begins outside Glasgow Cathedral at Castle Street, a central and accessible location near public transportation. This historic site sets the tone for the adventure, as the guide introduces the tour with a lively mix of facts and jokes. From here, the group heads to the Ramshorn Graveyard, which was once the scene of a notorious graverobbing case involving Mrs. Janet McAllister.

The starting point is ideal for those arriving on foot or by bus, and the two-hour duration strikes a good balance for a relaxed yet immersive experience. The tour ends at Babbity Bowster, a pub known for its spirits, where participants can unwind with a pint after the spooky exploration.

Exploring Glasgow’s Historic Graveyards

The Ramshorn Graveyard features a church built in 1824, now serving as a theatre since the 1980s. The guide shares tales of Mrs. Janet McAllister’s missing bones, adding a gruesome twist to the peaceful grounds. The Necropolis, a beautiful 19th-century cemetery, offers encounters with haunted statues and a bloodsucker legend, enriching Glasgow’s eerie narrative.

Further, the Glasgow Cathedral crypt and graveyard reveal stories of strange secrets within the historic stone walls. These sites provide a compelling backdrop for tales of ghostly residents and historical mysteries that linger around the city.

The Haunted Witches and Hangings at Tolbooth Steeple

The Tolbooth Steeple, dating back to the 1600s, stands as a distinctive part of Glasgow’s architecture. Historically, witches were imprisoned in its cells, and dozens of executions by hanging took place in front of it. This stop adds a layer of dark history to the tour, with the guide detailing the brutal events tied to the site. Its striking appearance makes it one of the most memorable stops, especially when stories of witch trials are told.

Visiting the Oldest University and the Ghostly Students

The University of Strathclyde, formerly an annex of the University of Glasgow, is linked to a story about a doctor who may have inspired the first science fiction story. Rumors suggest that the campus is haunted by restless spirits, with some reports indicating that the dead sometimes don’t stay that way. The guide shares these ghost stories with a mix of humor and intrigue, making it a popular stop.

The Medical Mysteries at Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum

A short walk brings the group to the Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum, a pre-Victorian hospital with a medical history full of strange discoveries. The museum’s tales include patients who, even after death, are said to still linger. The guide highlights these eerie legends, adding to the overall spooky atmosphere of the tour.

The Spooky Secrets of Glasgow’s Oldest Building

Glasgow Cathedral, the oldest building on the route, hides secret corridors and crypt stories that contribute to the spooky theme. Visitors hear about mysterious happenings in its crypt and stories of ghostly apparitions said to be seen by past visitors. The site’s striking architecture and atmospheric grounds enhance the overall sense of mystery.

The Necropolis: A Spooky Cemetery for the Elite

The Necropolis is a highlight of the tour, renowned for its haunted statues and ghostly encounters. Visitors learn about its history and some of the real-life legends involving bloodsuckers and spectral sightings. Its picturesque, yet ominous, setting makes it one of Glasgow’s most atmospheric landmarks.

Scotland’s Most Haunted Hotel: Cathedral House Hotel

Next, the group visits the Cathedral House Hotel, claimed to be the most haunted hotel in Scotland. The guide explains why guests are advised to request a room below the top floor, suggesting that the lower levels are safer from restless spirits. The hotel’s spooky reputation adds a fun element to the city’s haunted history.

The Pub Finale at Babbity Bowster

The tour concludes at Babbity Bowster on Blackfriars Street. While the pub openly states it has no ghosts, it is known for its spirits in a different sense. Here, the group can relax with a pint, reflecting on the spooky tales shared during the walk. The pub’s friendly atmosphere offers a perfect ending for those wanting to unwind after their ghostly adventure.

The Guide’s Personality and Storytelling Style

The tour is led by a local comedian praised for his energetic and humorous narration. Reviews highlight his ability to remember everyone’s names and details, making the experience feel personal despite the group size. His storytelling seamlessly blends historical facts, myths, and humor, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Guests consistently mention his knowledgeability and personal touch as key elements that elevate the tour.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. It includes a guide and references shown on a tablet, making the storytelling visually engaging. The tour is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, considering the walking involved over various historic sites. As transport to the start point is not included, visitors should plan to arrive at Glasgow Cathedral by public transportation or on foot.

Booking Flexibility and Weather Considerations

Booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for changing plans. The tour is weather-dependent, so poor conditions may result in cancellation or rescheduling. In such cases, participants are offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

Glasgow Ghouls, Ghosts and Gruesome Tales Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a fun and spooky exploration of Glasgow’s dark side, blending history, legends, and humor with a personable guide. The 2-hour duration is well-paced, and the stops at iconic sites like Necropolis and Glasgow Cathedral make it both atmospheric and educational. The price of $21.93 makes it an accessible way to experience the city’s haunted past.

While no transport is included, the central meeting point makes it easy to join for visitors already in Glasgow. The tour’s high ratings, based on 36 reviews, consistently praise the guide’s engaging style and knowledge. This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, ghost lovers, or anyone seeking a night of lighthearted spookiness in Glasgow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is appropriate for most ages, but it’s best for children who can handle walking and enjoy spooky stories. The guide’s humorous style makes it family-friendly for those comfortable with ghost tales.

Does the tour include any food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included. The tour ends at Babbity Bowster pub, where visitors can purchase beverages to unwind.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The route involves walking between sites, with some walking over uneven terrain and stairs at certain stops. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking are advised. Since the tour may run in the evening, consider bringing a light jacket or umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children are welcome, but supervision is recommended, especially for younger kids sensitive to spooky stories.

Will I receive any physical tickets?
The tour is mobile ticket only, so no paper tickets are necessary—just show your confirmation on your device.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Glasgow’s history?
Absolutely. The guide is highly praised for his knowledge, personality, and storytelling skills, effectively blending history and humor.