Step back to 1697, when Paisley became the centre of one of Scotland's most notorious witchcraft trials and the last mass witch execution in Europe. This fascinating walking tour explores the people, places and events surrounding the Paisley Witch Hunt, culminating in the execution of the accused at Gallow Green.
On this experience
Through the historic streets of Paisley, visitors will discover:
The Story of the Paisley Witches
Uncover the extraordinary events that began with the claims of 11-year-old Christian Shaw of Bargarran and developed into a major witchcraft investigation.
Paisley Abbey
Discover the religious and social atmosphere of 17th-century Paisley and the role of ministers and the church in the events surrounding the witch hunt. Contemporary records show that the Presbytery became involved in the investigation and ordered prayer and fasting for Christian Shaw.
The Trial & the Tolbooth
Visit the location associated with Paisley's former Tolbooth, where the accused were imprisoned and where the condemned were held before their final journey. The seven convicted people were tried in Paisley during April and May 1697.
The Journey to the Gallow Green
Follow the route associated with the condemned as they were taken through the town towards the place of execution.
Gallow Green
Stand at the historic site where the executions took place on 10 June 1697. Today, a small area of the former green and an old well remain, surrounded by the modern town.
Maxwellton Cross
Discover the location associated with the disposal of the victims' remains and the story of the horseshoe, traditionally believed to have been placed there to prevent the return of the accused spirits.
The Seven Accused
Hear the individual stories of Margaret Lang, John Lindsay, James Lindsay, John Lindsay of Barloch, Katherine Campbell, Margaret Fulton and Agnes Naismith.
History versus Legend
Separate the documented evidence from the stories, folklore and later traditions that have grown around the Paisley witches.
The tour also examines the wider context of 17th-century Scotland, exploring attitudes towards witchcraft, religion, superstition, justice and community fear.
This is a story of accusation, fear, belief and injustice, but also of the lives of ordinary people caught up in extraordinary circumstances. Rather than simply recounting the darker events, the tour aims to give a voice to those who were accused and to place their story within the wider history of Paisley and Renfrewshire.
Walk the streets. Discover the evidence. Hear the stories. Remember the accused.
- Meeting point
- Tours begin and end at our premises at 52 High Street, Paisley.
- Booking
- Check availability via our enquiry form.