VisitScotland Launches New Witch Trail Of Truly Magical Places For Modern Day Witches

Terry Bunch,

VisitScotland Launches New Witch Trail Of Truly Magical Places For Modern Day Witches

The idea of witchcraft has always held an important place in Scottish stories: from ancient legends to some of the most popular films and TV series of the present day. Now Scotland’s tales of witchcraft are being marked during the Year of Stories 2022 with a new Witch Trail created by VisitScotland, highlighting 15 locations across the country for visitors to explore year-round.

With Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022 in full swing and Halloween around the corner, there is no better time to delve into the rich tales surrounding so-called witches by exploring these locations all with links to themes associated with witchcraft including a love of nature and modern takes on the lore.

Some experiences on the map include:

  • Abbotsford: Sir Walter Scott’s home, Abbotsford, boasts one of the rarest collections of books on witchcraft. Visitors to the 19th century writer’s stunning library can still see his treasured “Witch Corner” today.
  • Strathspey Storywalks: Wander through the woods and trails of the Cairngorms National Park with Strathspey Storywalks. Tour guide, Sarah, will help visitors honour the memory of so-called witches by tuning into the quiet voices within the landscape.
  • East Neuk Seaweed: Seaweed has a key place in the healing legacy of Scotland and was likely used by the wise women of times gone by. East Neuk Seaweed offer workshops throughout Fife that highlight the healing properties and nutritional value of this sea vegetable.
  • Glen Dye School of Wild Wellness and Bushcraft: Visitors to Glen Dye School of Wild Wellness and Bushcraft have the chance to immerse themselves in all that the magical Aberdeenshire countryside has to offer, making it the perfect place to experience the therapeutic benefits of mother nature.
  • The Witchery by the Castle: Enjoy fine dining in a setting filled with history at The Witchery by the Castle. This unique and atmospheric hotel and restaurant that takes its name from the innocent women accused of witchcraft on Castlehill.

Cat Leaver, VisitScotland Head of Brand and Content, said: “As we mark Scotland’s Year of Stories, it is important to showcase tales of all kinds and highlight some of the truly unique experiences on offer in Scotland. This new witch trail and map does exactly this and we know that pre-pandemic, the popularity of attractions thought to be associated with the supernatural and darker aspects of Scotland’s history were on the rise. Highlighting fun, educational, and engaging experiences like those featured in the map will help inspire people to discover Scotland’s rich and diverse stories for themselves.”
Giles Ingram, Chief Executive of Abbotsford, said: “Generations of visitors to Sir Walter Scott’s home have been fascinated by ‘Witch Corner’, a cabinet within his library containing around 250 prized volumes dating from 1477 to 1832. Due to the popularity of Witch Corner, Abbotsford are currently building a sculpture trail inspired by the stories found within these books; from tales of witchcraft, to ourisks, elves, fairies and other mystical beings.” 
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