We stumbled upon Old Calton Burial Ground while exploring Calton Hill—drawn in by its looming obelisk and weathered tombs. At first glance, it looks like just another atmospheric Edinburgh cemetery. But once we started digging (figuratively), we found a surprisingly dark and rich history. This site is far more than stone and shadow—it’s a resting place for rebels, thinkers, and even a U.S. presidential oddity. Here’s why Old Calton Burial Ground deserves more than just a passing glance.
Where Is Old Calton Burial Ground?
Tucked along Calton Hill’s south slope, just off Waterloo Place, the cemetery is often overlooked by visitors heading to the monuments above. It’s free to enter and open during daylight hours.
📍 Closest landmark: Near the foot of Calton Hill, across from the Balmoral Hotel 🚶♀️ Access: Through a discreet gate along Regent Road
Who’s Buried Here?
⚔️ Political Martyrs
The towering Political Martyrs’ Monument honors five 18th-century reformers exiled for pushing for democratic rights in Scotland. Their radical views—demanding broader suffrage and fair representation—made them heroes to some and traitors to others.
🧠 David Hume (sort of)
Scotland’s most famous philosopher, David Hume, has a tomb here, though his body is buried elsewhere. His striking mausoleum stands as a tribute to his Enlightenment legacy and intellectual independence.
🇺🇸 U.S. Civil War Tribute
Strangely enough, Abraham Lincoln makes an appearance here—the only statue of him outside the U.S. on a memorial to the American Civil War. It honors Scottish soldiers who fought with the Union and died for the cause of abolition. It’s a powerful—and unexpected—symbol of transatlantic solidarity.
What Makes the Burial Ground So Eerie?
Between the timeworn headstones, Gothic architecture, and ever-present Edinburgh fog, Old Calton Burial Ground oozes atmosphere. But it’s the stories of political execution, radical reform, and historic unrest that give it its truly haunting edge.
Quick Fact: The cemetery once served as an execution site, adding another layer of darkness to its legacy.
Hidden Details to Look For
- 🪦 Obelisk Shadows: The 90-foot Political Martyrs’ Monument casts dramatic shadows at sunset—great for moody photos.
- 🕯️ Worn Inscriptions: Many tombstones are nearly unreadable, but some reveal surprising causes of death and family histories.
- 👀 Overgrown Corners: Some areas feel completely untouched, offering quiet reflection far from the usual tourist paths.
Best Time to Visit Old Calton Burial Ground
- 🕰 Late afternoon for golden light and long shadows
- 🌫️ Foggy mornings for true Gothic vibes
- ☀️ Weekdays for peaceful, crowd-free wandering
Tip: Combine your visit with a trip up Calton Hill or a walk along Regent Road for panoramic views and photo ops.
Why Old Calton Burial Ground Is Worth Your Time
Edinburgh is known for its ghost tours and dramatic history—but Old Calton Burial Ground offers a more grounded, yet equally chilling, encounter with the city’s past. It’s a place where philosophy, rebellion, and even U.S. history collide—right beneath your feet. If you’re looking to explore beyond the usual highlights, this quiet cemetery tells some of the city’s most powerful (and overlooked) stories.
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