Haunted History
Shadows of a thousand years fell across the Transylvanian landscape as my horse-drawn carriage rounded the bend of the twisting, tree-lined road that had been carved with exacting precision through these Carpathian Mountains. Swooping bats came out to dance, signaling nighttime was near. As the October winds whipped my hair in all directions, I brushed it back with my fingers, allowing a first glance of the home of the most chilling tale of the nineteenth century. “I don’t believe in ghosts,” I whispered to myself. “I don’t, I don’t.” Except I do. 🌚
Welcome to Bran Castle.
57: Number of rooms in Bran Castle — not including a secret passageway that leads to its watchtower.
$135,000,000: Amount in U.S. dollars
Stunning Balleyseede Castle has a not-so-secret secret: It’s haunted!
Stunning Ballyseede Castle has a not-so-secret secret: It’s haunted! Named one of the World’s Most Haunted Hotels by Trip Advisor, Ballyseede Castle is now an exquisite five-star hotel; and, in April of this year, I had the opportunity to stay here for a few days to conduct a little paranormal research of my own. Built during the 16th Century, Ballyseede’s haunted history dates back to the days of the Earl of Desmond who was beheaded on the hotel grounds a a warning to any rebels plotting against Henry VIII. The present castle dates back to 1721 and has been the scene of strange and mysterious goings-on, everything from disembodied voices and
Our story begins with a gardener named John Gray. Wanting a better job so that he might better provide for his children, John arrived in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1850 together with his family. Unsuccessful in securing work as a gardener, though, John decided to join the Edinburgh police force as a night watchman instead.
Shortly after beginning his shifts on the cobbled streets of the city, John found a partner to keep him company during the long Edinburgh nights: A wee Skye Terrier named Bobby. Now, Bobby was hardly a watchdog, but he was a loving and cheerful companion. John and Bobby soon became inseparable and were a common sight around the city.
After several years on the job patrolling
Take a sharp left turn at the close just before you get to Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Royal Mile and you’ll soon find yourself entering the wonderful world of The Witchery! Built in 1595, this five-star restaurant is a city institution. It’s the place you go to pop the question, close a business deal or — in my case — take your best friend for tea on Friday the 13th!
Filled with anticipation, we walked down this narrow stone alleyway expecting to be impressed — and we were not disappointed. Rounding the corner, I struggled to take it all in: Antlers on the wall, rich red leather seating, church candlesticks adorning the tables — and a giant