Secrets of the Hills: What Are the Fairy Coffins from Arthur's Seat?

Secrets of the Hills: What Are the Fairy Coffins from Arthur's Seat?

Author: Jodie Paterson November 17, 2025 Duration: 7:22

Today, we're diving into the mysterious world of the fairy coffins of Arthur's Seat, a tale that’s got more twists than a pretzel! So picture this: a group of boys in Edinburgh stumbles upon 17 tiny coffins, each holding a little figure tucked in like they’re ready for a nap. What makes this story even cooler? No one has a clue who made them or why they were hidden in the hills. Were they crafted by witches, or maybe a grieving soul trying to honor lost loved ones? We’ll explore all the wild theories, from dark rituals to heartfelt memorials, and trust me, you don’t wanna miss the spooky connections to Edinburgh's infamous murderers. Grab your headphones and let’s get ready to unravel some seriously strange history!

Takeaways:

  • The podcast dives into the eerie tale of the fairy coffins discovered at Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh, revealing a mystery that’s been puzzling folks for over 100 years.
  • We explore various theories surrounding the origins of the miniature coffins, including witchcraft, toys, and a dark connection to the infamous Burke and Hare murders.
  • The craftsmanship of the coffins showcases a mix of simple and intricate designs, hinting at multiple creators behind these tiny wooden graves.
  • Arthur's Seat has long been a mystical spot in Edinburgh, believed to be a thin place where the veil between our world and the next is particularly fragile.
  • The story emphasizes how grief can inspire creativity, as seen in the act of crafting these tiny coffins, possibly as a memorial for the forgotten.
  • Listeners are encouraged to ponder the deep connections between death and storytelling, and how even small objects can carry profound narratives.


Jodie Paterson guides you through the misty glens and ancient ruins of Scotland and Ireland in Bitesized Folklore. This isn't a dry history lesson; it's an invitation to the hearthside for a story. Each episode is a compact journey, lasting about ten minutes, where Jodie brings to life the eerie legends and curious creatures that have whispered from these landscapes for centuries. You'll hear about the shapeshifting selkies emerging from the cold sea, the mischievous faeries who guard hidden paths, and the tragic ghosts that still walk crumbling castle walls. The podcast digs into the roots of these stories, considering what they reveal about the culture, fears, and hopes of the people who first told them. Released twice weekly, with a new tale every Monday, this series is for anyone who feels a pull toward the mysterious past. It’s designed for a quick commute, a short walk, or just a moment of escape. The magic of folklore is in its timelessness, and Jodie presents each piece with a sense of wonder and respect, making the old stories feel vividly present. Tune in for a regular dose of the strange and magical, served in perfectly digestible portions that linger long after the episode ends.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Bitesized Folklore
Podcast Episodes
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We're diving into the enchanting legend of Oisin in Tirna Nog, where love, loss, and the relentless tick-tock of time collide in the most beautiful way. Picture this: Oisin, a total legend himself, gets swept off his fee…
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We're diving into the wild and wicked tale of the Nuckelavee, a monstrous mash-up that's part horse, part human, and 100% nightmare fuel. Picture this skinless beast from the Orkney Islands, cruising the stormy shores, s…