This feature was first published in the Evening Telegraph on 28 October 2024.
As Halloween approaches, Dundee’s rich tapestry of ghost stories and legends comes to life, particularly for those of us who cherish its eerie history.
My recent visit to the Howff, the historic burial ground in the heart of the city, reminded me of the natural beauty and haunting atmosphere that surrounds this time of year.
Walking among the ancient graves, I found myself enveloped in the Halloween spirit, eager to share some of Dundee’s most intriguing tales.
One of the city’s most iconic ghost stories is that of the White Lady of Balgay Bridge. Local lore speaks of a spectral woman in white, wandering the area, seeking lost souls or perhaps warning of impending tragedy. Her presence has captured the imaginations of many, making her a staple of Dundee’s haunted heritage.
Another tale that always piqued my interest was that of the Hairy Hand, said to haunt the multis in Ardler.
My mum and her family lived in Downfield Court as part of the multi complex, and often recounted this story, which, while terrifying, might have originated from something as mundane as a glove left on a kitchen counter.
This blend of fear and familiarity highlights how urban legends can morph over time, reflecting our collective anxieties and curiosities.
Balgay Park adds another layer to Dundee’s ghostly folklore, particularly the legend of a witch who trapped a boy in the mud.
This chilling story weaves a narrative of danger lurking in the shadows of the park, stirring the imagination of those brave enough to explore its depths.
Claypotts Castle also holds a treasure trove of tales. The castle is said to be haunted by a mischievous green lady who roams its halls.
I vividly recall a school trip to the castle where I sat down in a chair, only for a candle on the table beside me to burst unexpectedly.
Such moments leave an indelible mark, making one wonder about the forces that linger in places steeped in history.
Dundee's influence extends beyond ghost stories and into literary realms, notably impacting one of Halloween’s most enduring figures: Frankenstein.
Mary Shelley moved to Dundee in 1812, and it is widely noted that the city’s gruesome whaling industry inspired her groundbreaking work.
The tales of horror and the struggle for life and death echoed through the streets, building a dark creativity that birthed one of literature’s most iconic monsters.
The Frankenstein Steps on South Baffin Street, leading to the site of the cottage where she lived, are a testament to this connection.
This pathway deserves recognition as a tourist attraction, drawing those interested in both the supernatural and literary heritage of Dundee.
While Halloween has never been my favourite holiday, it has become an occasion to delve into these ghostly narratives that add depth to our understanding of the city.
Each story, from the ethereal White Lady to the captivating legend of the Hairy Hand, not only entertains but also enriches our appreciation of Dundee’s history.
As we embrace the spirit of Halloween, let’s remember that these legends and tales connect us to the past, reminding us of the mysteries that lie just beneath the surface of everyday life.
So, whether you’re wandering through the Howff or exploring the shadows of Claypotts Castle, keep your senses alert—you never know what stories might unfold.
