Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic cemetery in Edinburgh's Old Town featuring hundreds of gravestones and mausoleums spanning several centuries. The southern side of the grounds displays walled burial plots of wealthy families with decorated iron gates and coats of arms.

The cemetery was established in 1562 after royal permission and took its name from the nearby Franciscan friary. In 1679, over a thousand prisoners were held here in the open air following the Covenanters' uprising.

The kirkyard has served for centuries as a burial ground for city residents and bears names on gravestones that later appeared in literary works. Visitors often notice the elaborate mortality symbols carved on many stones, including skulls, winged hourglasses and skeletons.

The grounds sit next to Greyfriars Bobby pub and are accessible through several entrances, with the main one facing Candlemaker Row. The paths are mostly paved but can become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Metal cages called mortsafes still cover some graves and were installed in the 19th century to protect bodies from thieves who stole them for medical purposes. A small watch house at the northeast entrance recalls how guards patrolled here at night.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Part of: Greyfriars Kirk

GPS coordinates: 55.94683,-3.19289

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:45