Step into haunting history this Halloween 🏰
As the nights grow longer and a crisp chill fills the air, the UK’s ancient castles awaken with an eerie energy. Steeped in centuries of bloody battles and royal intrigue, these historic fortresses are the perfect backdrop for a spine-tingling Halloween adventure.
Forget your standard spooky houses – these stone giants spotlight Britain’s spooky history. This Halloween, discover the most must-see castles in the UK for a memorable and unnerving experience…
1. Dover Castle
Kent
Get ready for a spine-chilling journey into the past at Dover Castle. This 11th-century fortress is packed with fascinating medieval history and even a crucial role in WWI and WWII. Dare to venture into the authentic underground hospital, a labyrinthine network of tunnels where the whispers of wartime nurses and soldiers still echo.
In October half-term, the castle’s grounds host a range of frighteningly fun family events. Solve Halloween quests, uncover ghastly clues and check out immersive shows with Dover Castle’s resident monsters. But whether your little ones are history fanatics or ghost hunters, Dover Castle offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with shivers down your spine.
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2. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh
Perched on a dramatic volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is a powerful and iconic fortress that dominates the Scottish capital’s skyline. But beneath its grand facade lies a dark and turbulent history, making it one of the most famously haunted locations in all of Scotland. With a past steeped in sieges, executions and imprisonment, the castle is a hotbed of paranormal activity and a must-visit for any Halloween enthusiast.
As you explore the castle, keep an ear out for the mournful sound of a young bagpiper who disappeared centuries ago while exploring a secret network of tunnels beneath the castle. Then there’s the ‘Headless Drummer Boy,’ whose ghostly drumming is believed to be a warning of an impending attack. With a history this grim, it’s no surprise that Edinburgh Castle fully embraces its haunted reputation. A visit here isn’t just a trip back in time – it’s an encounter with a city’s most chilling legends.
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3. Hever Castle
Kent
Discover the darker side of romance at Hever Castle, the childhood home of King Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn. While the moated castle and award-winning gardens are beautiful all year round, they take on a haunting aura at Halloween. The ghost of Anne Boleyn herself is said to haunt the grounds, a tragic figure often seen wandering the gardens and a bridge over the River Eden.
Hever Castle’s Halloween events offer a perfect blend of spookiness and fun. For the serious ghost hunters, after-dark Haunted Hever Castle Tours with spine-tingling theatrical experiences plus exclusive access to the castle’s most secret areas, where you’ll hear tales of its gruesome past.
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4. Glamis Castle
Dundee
Glamis Castle is so steeped in history and mystery that it’s known as one of Scotland’s most haunted castles. In fact, its eerie atmosphere even inspired Shakespeare’s classic play, Macbeth! If that doesn’t send a shiver down your spine, we don’t know what will.
But the real magic happens when you visit. This Halloween, why not step into the 1000-year history of Glamis Castle and see for yourself? Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast or just looking for a fun and spooky day out, Glamis Castle is a must-visit destination that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come.
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5. Muncaster Castle
Lake District
Known by paranormal researchers as a ‘mecca for all things supernatural,’ Muncaster Castle isn’t just a picturesque historic home – it’s a hub of ghostly activity!
If you’re looking for some serious Halloween fun, Muncaster Castle is the perfect spot. Get into the spooky spirit with the Halloween Family Festival, with spooky trails, costume competitions and castle rooms dressed for Halloween. Or check out Muncaster Castle’s spine-tingling Scarefest for ages 16+ with scare mazes, live music and scrumptious food stalls.
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6. Warwick Castle
Warwickshire
Warwick Castle is an absolute must-visit, especially if you’re looking for a spooky, Halloween-themed adventure! This medieval fortress, which has stood for over 1,100 years, leans into its ghostly reputation during the autumn season. You can expect to find a whole host of ghoulish delights, from the chilling ‘Castle Dungeon’ experience that takes you on a journey through the castle’s dark history to ‘Haunted Hollows’ where there’s a fright around every corner. The castle’s grounds are also transformed with autumnal decorations and the atmosphere is electric. It’s a fantastic day out that combines historical exploration with some seriously spooky fun.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the great hall and state rooms, where you’ll discover tales of its former residents. For the brave ones, the ghost stories and mysterious mazes are a highlight. It’s a truly spectacular place to get into the spooky spirit!
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7. Chillingham Castle
Scotland
Looking for a castle that truly lives up to its name? Chillingham Castle in Northumberland is widely considered one of the most haunted castles in Britain, making it an absolute must-visit for any Halloween enthusiast. This 13th-century fortress has a dark and gruesome history, and its long-standing reputation for paranormal activity is well-earned.
If you’re feeling brave, the castle offers a variety of ghost tours and paranormal events that run throughout the year, and especially for Halloween. Creep through the darkest parts of the castle and listen to tales of its resident ghosts, including the famous ‘Blue Boy’ and ‘The Lady in White’. The castle’s staff are very knowledgeable and eager to share the terrifying history that makes Chillingham a supernatural hotbed.
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8. Leeds Castle
Kent
One of Britain’s most idyllic castles is getting a spooky makeover for Halloween! This Halloween season, this stunning fortress is the perfect spot for a family-friendly fright. At Halloween at Leeds Castle, kids can dress in their favourite spooky costumes and embark on a thrilling monster quest, exploring the castle grounds and meeting some friendly, but frightening, characters along the way. It’s a fantastic way to get them to engage with the castle’s history while having a blast.
While the little ghouls are on their quest, adults can immerse themselves in the castle’s rich and fascinating history. Take your time to explore the breathtaking exhibitions and the beautifully manicured gardens, which take on a magical, autumnal feel. It’s a wonderful day out that combines the beauty and history of a world-famous castle with the fun and festive spirit of Halloween, making it a perfect spot for the whole family to enjoy.
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9. Carlisle Castle
Cumbria
Standing as a proud icon of Carlisle for nine centuries, there is no doubt that this place has seen its fair share of turbulent history. Carlisle Castle has withstood the test of time, serving as a fortress and a prison and even holding Mary Queen of Scots prisoner. This lends itself to being the perfect place to explore this Halloween.
For over 16s and the brave amongst you, Ghost Tales at Carlisle Castle include torch-lit tours with spooky storytellers revealing Carlisle Castle’s ghostly past. You’ll hear tales of supernatural sightings and horrors from the castle’s medieval history.
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10. Berry Pomeroy Castle
Devon
Tucked away in the beautiful woodlands of Devon, you’ll find the enchanting yet eerie ruins of Berry Pomeroy Castle. This picturesque ruin hides a far more sinister history than its romantic appearance suggests. Once the grand site of an ambitious Elizabethan mansion, the castle is now known for its bloodcurdling tales of hauntings and sorrow. Exploring its desolate grounds, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, offering a chilling glimpse into what life was truly like for the people who once lived both above and below stairs.
For those brave enough to visit, Berry Pomeroy is said to be one of the most haunted castles in England. Its most famous ghosts include the White Lady and the Blue Lady, whose tragic stories are woven into the very fabric of the castle. As you wander through the remains of this once-magnificent home, you’ll be transported back in time, all while keeping a watchful eye out for any paranormal activity. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves a good ghost story and wants to experience a truly spooky atmosphere this Halloween!
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