Around two million people visit Edinburgh Castle each year - but not everyone realises that it is hiding a rather touching secret.
Hidden within the grounds is a cemetery. But this isn’t a cemetery for royals or notable people - it is solely dedicated to dogs.
The small green space is thought to have originally been where a medieval tower stood, however for the last 184 years it has transformed into the final resting place of honoured dogs belonging to high-ranking soldiers and regimental mascots.
The burials began here in 1837, the same year that Queen Victoria took to the British throne. During her reign until 1901, she was known for her love of animals.
This appreciation for man’s best friend in Edinburgh is also reflected in the story of Greyfriars Bobby, the Skye Terrier who spent 14 years guarding the grave of his owner until he passed away on 14 January 1872. Bobby is commemorated with a popular statue and nearby grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard.
The dog graveyard at the castle is home to around 20 headstones, the engravings of which have mostly been worn away over time. The oldest visible inscription is from 1881 and is dedicated to Jess, band pet of the Black Watch 43nd Royal Highlanders.
The most recent headstone commemorates Winkle, a dog who died in 1980 and was noted as being the faithful friend of Lady Gow and the Governor.
The cemetery can be viewed from the top of Edinburgh Castle, down from the Argyle Battery ledge, located east of Mons Meg and St. Margaret’s Chapel. Sadly, there is no physical access to the graveyard for visitors.
For funeral notices in your area visit funeral-notices.co.uk
