Hotels near Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a working 16th-century cemetery and arguably the most atmospheric churchyard in Britain. It is the burial ground for some 250,000 people including the 17th-century philosopher George Buchanan, several Covenanter martyrs, and many of the city's leading citizens. It also inspired J.K. Rowling, who lived nearby - headstones for Thomas Riddell (yes, with that spelling) and William McGonagall stand within easy walking distance and gave names to her characters.

The most-visited grave belongs to Greyfriars Bobby, the Skye terrier who reputedly kept watch over his master's grave for 14 years until his own death in 1872. His statue on the corner of Candlemaker Row is one of Edinburgh's most photographed landmarks. The Covenanters' Prison in the back section is locked to the public except on summer guided tours - book through the church office.

Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the light slants across the moss-covered tombs and tour groups have thinned. Combine with a coffee at The Elephant House on George IV Bridge nearby - the cafe where Rowling drafted parts of the first Harry Potter book.