Spine-tingling legends, cold spots in ancient corridors and shadowy figures that refuse to leave. The UK is packed with locations that blend deep history with chilling folklore, making Halloween the perfect time to visit. Below are ten famous sites where ghost stories are part of the fabric of the place, plus practical notes to help you plan a safe and respectful trip.
If you are plotting a full fright-night itinerary, you might also enjoy our lists on Ten of the Scariest Ghost Tours in the UK and Ten Creepy Abandoned Places You Can Actually Visit.
1. Tower of London, England
Few places wear their bloody history as openly as the Tower. From royal intrigue to grim executions, it has hosted centuries of sorrow. Visitors often speak of Anne Boleyn gliding through the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula and whispers about the Princes in the Tower.
Good to know: Book official visits with Historic Royal Palaces for timed entry and after-hours events.
2. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Set atop an ancient volcanic plug, this fortress has witnessed sieges, plagues and prisons of war. Reports include a headless drummer foretelling danger and a lone piper lost beneath the rock who never found his way out.
Good to know: Check official updates with Edinburgh Castle, and pair your visit with the city’s famous underground vaults after dark.
3. Pendle Hill, Lancashire
Pendle is synonymous with the 1612 witch trials. Walkers still report sudden drops in temperature and the feeling of being watched on lonely paths. The surrounding villages keep the lore alive with local tales and themed trails.
Good to know: Stick to marked routes and be prepared for changeable moorland weather. Guided night walks operate seasonally.
4. The Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire
Arguably one of Britain’s most haunted pubs, the Ancient Ram bristles with unsettling stories, from alleged pagan rituals to poltergeist activity. Guests have reported being tugged from sleep or feeling a heavy presence in certain rooms.
Good to know: Private investigations and tours are often available. Always confirm availability directly before travelling.
5. Hampton Court Palace, London
Tudor splendour with a supernatural twist. Catherine Howard is said to scream through the Haunted Gallery, while Jane Seymour reportedly appears near the stairs where she once walked in life.
Good to know: October often features family-friendly ghost walks. See details via Historic Royal Palaces.
6. Pluckley Village, Kent
Frequently cited as Britain’s most haunted village, Pluckley boasts a roll call of spectres that locals could recite by heart, including the Screaming Man and the Watercress Woman. Country lanes here feel especially uncanny after dusk.
Good to know: Be considerate of residents, keep noise down at night and park thoughtfully in designated areas.
7. Berry Pomeroy Castle, Devon
These romantic ruins are rich with eerie stories. The Blue Lady is said to lure visitors from the towers, while the White Lady haunts the dungeons. The setting is beautiful by day and quietly unnerving as evening falls.
Good to know: Operated by English Heritage, which lists opening times and seasonal events.
8. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland
The name fits. Chillingham often appears on lists of the most haunted castles, with tales of the Blue Boy and Lady Mary Berkeley. The historic torture chamber exhibition adds to the uneasy atmosphere.
Good to know: Overnight stays are possible for those who truly want to test their nerve.
9. Glamis Castle, Scotland
Royal connections, secrets and age-old rumours swirl around Glamis. Stories range from mysterious card games that never ended to the elusive Monster of Glamis.
Good to know: Visitor information and seasonal tours are listed via VisitScotland.
10. Borley Rectory, Essex
Once crowned the most haunted house in England, the original rectory burned down in the 1930s, yet the stories refuse to die. Sightings of a phantom nun and reports of spirit writing kept investigators enthralled for decades.
Good to know: The rectory is gone, but the site still attracts the curious. Respect private property and local guidelines.
Safety, Etiquette and Seasonal Tips
- Respect the living as well as the dead: Many of these places are active communities or working heritage sites. Follow rules and signage.
- Book ahead: Halloween dates sell out quickly, especially for special evening tours.
- Dress for the British weather: Layers, waterproofs and sturdy footwear will keep you exploring longer.
- Be mindful at night: Carry a torch, tell someone your plans and keep to marked paths.