England's rich tapestry of history, folklore, and mystery has given rise to numerous tales of the supernatural. From ancient castles to quaint villages, here are some of the most haunted locations you might dare to visit...
1. Pluckley Village, Kent
Pluckley Village location: Ashford, Kent, TN27 0QS
Dubbed the most haunted village in England, Pluckley boasts at least 15 reported ghosts. Among them are the "Screaming Man" near the old brickworks, a phantom highwayman pinned to a tree, and the Watercress Woman, who tragically set herself alight while drinking gin and smoking a pipe. Locals often report eerie lights on deserted roads, sudden drops in temperature, and inexplicable whispers in the wind.
Visitor tips for ghost hunters
- Ghost walks: Join local guides for evening ghost walks that explore the village's haunted hotspots.
- Accessibility: Pluckley is accessible via a short train ride from London, making it ideal for a day trip.
- Local amenities: The village offers charming pubs and tearooms for refreshments during your visit.
- Where to stay: If you want to stay locally, Romney Sands Holiday Park is a 40 minute drive from Pluckley.
2. Blickling Hall, Norfolk
Blickling Hall location: Norwich, Norfolk, NR11 6NF
This Jacobean mansion is said to be the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, and she’s never truly left. Every May 19th, her headless ghost is said to arrive in a coach pulled by headless horses. Other hauntings include phantom music in empty rooms and a spectral librarian that appears on moonless nights.
Tips for brave visitors:
- Opening times: Blickling Hall is open to visitors throughout the year.
- Events: The estate hosts various events, including historical reenactments and seasonal celebrations.
- Facilities: On-site amenities include a cafe and gift shop for visitors.
- Where to stay: Vauxhall Holiday Park is a 50 minute drive from Blickling Hall Estate.
3. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland
Chillingham Castle location: Chillingham, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 5NJ
Often considered one of the most haunted castles in England, Chillingham Castle's dark history includes tales of torture and executions. Visitors have reported sightings of Lady Mary Berkeley, the "White Pantry Ghost," and the "Blue Boy." The castle's torture chamber is particularly notorious, filled with an array of gruesome implements of punishment.
Essential tips for fearless explorers:
- Opening times: The castle and gardens are open from April to November.
- Ghost tours: Chillingham Castle offers ghost tours and hunts throughout the year.
- Facilities: The Minstrel's Tearoom is open from 11 am to 4 pm during the season.
- Where to stay: Cresswell Towers and Sandy Bay Holiday Park are both a 50 minute drive from the castle.
4. Pendle Hill, Lancashire
Pendle Hill location: Lancashire, BB12 9JR
Pendle Hill is infamous for the 1612 trial of the "Pendle Witches", where ten so-called witches were hanged at Lancaster Castle. Many believe that their souls still haunt the area. The hill dominates the region, and the surrounding countryside is steeped in tales of witchcraft and supernatural occurrences.
Tips for witches & wanderers:
- Hiking trails: Explore the various trails leading up Pendle Hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Historical sites: Visit nearby landmarks associated with the Pendle Witch Trials for a deeper understanding of the area's history.
- Events: Some local organisations offer guided tours and events focused on witch trials and local folklore.
- Where to stay: Todber Valley Holiday Park is less than a 20 minute drive away.
5. Chislehurst Caves, Kent
Chislehurst Caves location: Chislehurst, BR7 5NL
An extensive complex of subterranean tunnels, Chislehurst Caves were transformed during World War II into one of London’s largest air raid shelters. Within the caves is a chamber called the "haunted pool", where claims of a lady dressed in white floating across the surface are often reported. Visitors also hear distant strange noises in the miles of dark corridors.
Tips for daring adventurers:
- Opening hours: The caves are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last tour starting at 4 pm.
- Tour duration: Each guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.
- Facilities: On-site amenities include a cafe and gift shop for visitors.
- Where to stay: It's well worth a stop if you're heading south to Camber Sands Holiday Park.
6. The Red Lion, Wiltshire
Red Lion location: Marlborough, SN8 1RF
Located in Avebury, Wiltshire, the Red Lion is considered one of the most haunted pubs in Great Britain. The inn's 400-year history is filled with tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena. Many believe that the spirits of past patrons still linger, enjoying a pint in the afterlife.
Tips for those seeking spirits:
- Unique location: The Red Lion is situated within a Neolithic stone circle, adding to its mystical ambience.
- Haunted experiences: Guests have reported sightings of a phantom carriage drawn by ghostly horses and the apparition of a female phantom named Florrie.
- Local attractions: Explore the surrounding Avebury stone circle and nearby landmarks steeped in history.
- Where to stay: Sandford Holiday Park is around 75 minutes from the Red Lion if a haunted pint over lunch is your thing.
7. Bodmin Jail, Cornwall
Bodmin Jail location: Bodmin, PL21 2NR
Bodmin Jail provides a troubling insight into 19th-century penal life. The jail's dark history includes tales of executions and harsh conditions. Visitors have reported eerie sensations and sightings of apparitions, making it one of Cornwall's most haunted locations.
Tips for those brave enough to enter the jail:
- Opening hours: The jail is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Entry fees: Admission fees apply; discounts are available for children and families.
- Guided tours: Guided tours are available, offering insights into the jail's history and paranormal activity.
- Where to stay: Newquay Holiday Park is just 30 mins from Bodmin Jail.
8. The Treasurer’s House, York
The Treasurer’s House location: York, YO1 7JL
The Treasurer’s House in York is renowned for its ghostly inhabitants. Reports include sightings of Roman soldiers marching through the house and unexplained cold spots. The house's long history and connection to the Roman era contribute to its haunted reputation.
Tips for the curious & courageous:
- Opening times: The Treasurer’s House is open to visitors throughout the year.
- Events: The estate hosts various events, including historical reenactments and seasonal celebrations.
- Facilities: On-site amenities include a cafe and gift shop for visitors.
- Where to stay: Cayton Bay, Barmston Beach & Skipsea Sands holiday parks are all around 1 hour from the Treasurer’s House.
9. Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire
The Ancient Ramm Inn location: Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, GL12 7HF
The Ancient Ram Inn in Gloucestershire is often cited as one of the most haunted buildings in England. Its history includes tales of witchcraft, ritualistic sacrifices, and ghostly apparitions. Visitors have reported unsettling experiences, from strange noises to sightings of spectral figures.
Essential tips for ghost enthusiasts:
- Access: The inn is located in the village of Wotton-under-Edge.
- Haunted experiences: Guests have reported sightings of a lady in white and unexplained cold spots.
- Local attractions: Explore the surrounding Cotswolds region, known for its picturesque villages and scenic landscapes.
- Where to stay: Trecco Bay Holiday Park is around 80 mins away from the Ancient Ram.
10. The Skirrid Mountain Inn, Wales
The Skirrid Inn location: Abergavenny, NP7 8DH
The Skirrid Mountain Inn is one of the oldest pubs in Wales and is infamous for its dark past. Dating back to the 1100s, the inn was once a place of execution, and many believe the spirits of the condemned still linger. The inn is haunted by several ghosts, including a former innkeeper and a woman seen in the upper floors. Visitors come for the ghostly encounters as much as for the traditional Welsh fare.
Tips for the condemned & courageous:
- Opening times: The inn is open daily for meals and drinks. Check the website for specific opening hours.
- Stay overnight: The inn offers rooms for those brave enough to spend the night among its haunted halls.
- Haunted events: Keep an eye out for special ghost events and paranormal nights.
- Where to stay: Trecco Bay Holiday Park is around an hour from the Skirrid Inn.
11. The Black Swan Hotel, York
The Black Swan location: York, YO1 7DE
The Black Swan Hotel in York is renowned for its ghostly inhabitants. Visitors have reported numerous paranormal activities, including sightings of a female ghost believed to be a former innkeeper, and mysterious cold spots throughout the hotel. The Black Swan is a charming yet eerie place to stay, offering both a comfortable and supernatural experience for those interested in the paranormal.
Tips for spirit-seekers:
- Opening hours: The Black Swan is open year-round and is known for its cozy pub, perfect for a drink after a ghost tour.
- Stay the night: If you're planning a stop-off in York before heading to the Yorkshire Coast, why not book a room and stay the night with the hotel's resident spirits.
- Local attractions: Explore the historical city of York, which is filled with haunted landmarks and rich history.
- Where to stay: Cayton Bay, Barmston Beach & Skipsea Sands holiday parks are all around 1 hour from the Black Swan.
12. The Plough Inn, Gloucestershire
Plough Inn location: Cheltenham, GL52 3BG
The Plough Inn is a quaint pub in Gloucestershire with a sinister reputation. Guests have reported hearing strange noises and seeing objects move on their own. It’s said that the ghosts of former patrons still enjoy a pint at the bar, and the pub has been a hotspot for paranormal investigations. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the Plough Inn offers a chilling atmosphere.
Tips for those brave enough to dine with the dead:
- Opening times: The Plough Inn is open daily for lunch and dinner. It’s a great spot for a hearty meal after a ghost tour.
- Haunted history: Ask the pub staff about the inn’s spooky history - they’ve got some unsettling tales to share.
- Location: The pub is set in a beautiful area of Gloucestershire, perfect for a countryside escape. It's the ideal place to break your journey if you're heading to Trecco Bay.
13. The Queen’s House, Greenwich
The Queen’s House location: London, SE10 9NF
The Queen’s House in Greenwich is a stunning example of classical architecture and royal history. It’s also known for its haunted reputation, particularly in relation to its famous Tulip Stairs, where ghostly figures have been seen ascending and descending. Some believe the spirits of past residents still walk the halls, adding a mysterious allure to the house.
Ghoulish & ghostly guest tips:
- Opening times: The Queen’s House is open daily, but check for special closures during holidays.
- Entry fees: Entry is free, though donations are encouraged.
- Special events: The house hosts exhibitions and seasonal events, including historical reenactments and educational tours.
14. The Mermaid Inn, Rye
The Mermaid Inn location: Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7EY
The Mermaid Inn in Rye is a historic pub that dates back to the 12th century. Known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, it also boasts a reputation for ghostly activity. Guests have reported sightings of a lady in white, (some believe her to be a former guest who met a tragic end) as well as a rocking chair that moves on its own and various paranormal occurrences . The inn is a popular stop for both history buffs and ghost hunters alike.
Tips for those ready to face a true haunted pub:
- Opening times: The Mermaid Inn is open daily for meals and drinks. It’s a cozy spot for a relaxing meal or drink by the fire.
- Explore Rye: The inn is located in the picturesque town of Rye, known for its medieval charm and nearby ghostly locations.
- Where to stay: Camber Sands Holiday Park is around a 10 minute drive away.
15. The Old Operating Theatre, London
The Old Operating Theatre location: London, SE1 9RY
The Old Operating Theatre is a museum dedicated to the history of surgery, located in the attic of St. Thomas’s Church in London. It’s not only known for its fascinating displays of medical tools from the past but also for its haunted reputation. The most notable ghost is that of a former nurse, whose apparition is said to appear in the operating theatre at night. The museum is a mix of gruesome history and ghostly encounters.
Tips for budding spooky surgeons:
- Opening hours: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Entry fees: There is an entry fee, and discounts are available for students and seniors.
- Guided tours: The museum offers guided tours that delve into the dark history of surgery and its paranormal connections.
16. Hampton Court Palace, London
Hampton Court Palace location: Molesey, Richmond upon Thames, London, KT8 9AU
Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent Tudor palace on the banks of the River Thames, famously associated with King Henry VIII. It’s also known for its haunted history. Visitors have reported seeing the ghost of Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife, who was executed for treason. Other sightings include unexplained shadows, cold spots, and eerie footsteps echoing through the hallways. The palace’s rich history and royal intrigue make it one of London’s most fascinating haunted sites.
Royal haunting hunter tips:
- Opening times: The palace is open daily, with extended hours during peak tourist season.
- Guided tours: Join a historical or ghost tour to explore the palace’s haunted secrets.
- Facilities: On-site cafes, shops, and beautiful gardens are available for visitors to enjoy.
- Events: Seasonal events, including Tudor reenactments, add context to the ghostly tales.
17. The Tower of London, London
Tower of London location: London, EC3N 4AB
The Tower of London is one of the UK’s most iconic historic sites and also one of its most haunted. It has served as a royal palace, prison, and execution site. Visitors report sightings of Anne Boleyn’s headless ghost walking the grounds, as well as the spirits of other prisoners. The White Tower, Bloody Tower, and the ravens are all linked to eerie tales and sightings. Its dark history, combined with its dramatic architecture, makes it a prime site for paranormal encounters.
Tips for raven-seeking adventurers:
- Opening times: Open daily, with extended hours in the summer.
- Guided tours: Take a Yeoman Warder tour to learn about the Tower’s history and hauntings.
- Facilities: Cafes, gift shops, and audio guides are available.
- Events: Special evening ghost tours and historical reenactments are held throughout the year.
18. Berry Pomeroy Castle, Devon
Berry Pomeroy Castle location: Totnes, Devon, TQ9 6LJ
Berry Pomeroy Castle is a dramatic ruin perched in the Devon countryside, with a history dating back to the 16th century. The castle is famous for its ghostly legends, including the "White Lady," believed to be the spirit of Margaret Pomeroy who was walled up alive, and the "Blue Lady," who reportedly haunts the ruins. Visitors have also reported mysterious footsteps, shadowy figures, and eerie cold spots within the castle walls, making it one of Devon’s most haunted sites.
Tips for only the most daring visitors:
- Opening times: The castle is open daily, though hours may vary seasonally; check the English Heritage website for details.
- Guided tours: Join a guided walk to explore the castle’s history and paranormal stories.
- Facilities: Limited on-site facilities. Parking is available, and nearby villages offer cafes and shops.
- Photography: The ruins and surrounding landscape are highly photogenic, especially at dusk.
- Where to stay: Torquay Holiday Park is just a 20 minute drive away.
Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, these haunted locations offer a glimpse into England's eerie past. For those brave enough to visit, the tales and experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Dare you visit them?
Whether you're a seasoned ghost hunter or simply looking for a thrill, these haunted sites offer a mix of chilling legends and rich history. Just remember: some doors, once opened, are hard to close.
Planning a spooky break? Check out our Halloween breaks during October half term to get into the ghoulish spirit.
Happy haunting!
Most haunted locations FAQs
What’s the most haunted place in England?
Many believe the Tower of London holds that title. With nearly 1,000 years of history, it’s said to be haunted by figures such as Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and even ghostly children believed to be the lost princes.
Is the Tower of London really haunted?
Reports of ghostly apparitions and eerie sounds date back centuries. Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) and visitors alike have claimed to see figures in Tudor dress, cold spots, and unexplained footsteps. While there’s no scientific proof, its bloody past makes it a prime setting for ghost stories.
What is the most seen ghost in the UK?
Anne Boleyn is the most ‘seen’ ghost in the UK with numerous sightings all over the country. She often appears with her head beneath her arm as she did after her execution by Henry VIII. This makes her Britain's most well-travelled spectral figure, much to the dismay of those who encounter her.
Are there haunted castles in England?
Yes - many. Chillingham Castle in Northumberland is often called the most haunted castle in Britain. Guests have reported hearing ghostly cries, seeing a “Blue Boy” in the old nursery, and feeling sudden temperature drops in its medieval halls.
Which English pub is said to be haunted?
The Ancient Ram Inn in Gloucestershire is one of the most famous haunted pubs. Built in 1145, it sits on what was once a pagan burial ground. Visitors claim to have seen apparitions, heard whispers, and even felt unseen hands.
Are there haunted houses you can stay in?
Yes, several English manors and hotels are rumoured to be haunted. The Jamaica Inn in Cornwall, for example, is famous for ghostly footsteps and phantom horsemen. Guests can still book a room there - if they dare.
What’s the most haunted village in England?
Pluckley in Kent is officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as England’s most haunted village. It’s said to have over a dozen ghosts, including a highwayman, a schoolmaster, and a screaming man at the old brickworks.
Can you visit haunted places in England?
Absolutely. Many historic sites like Hampton Court Palace, Pendle Hill, and the Tower of London offer ghost tours, especially around Halloween. Whether you’re a believer or just curious, it’s a unique way to explore England’s darker side.
