If you’re someone who gets a thrill from eerie legends, shadowy corridors, and the unexplained, then you’re in for a bone-chilling treat. The UK, with its ancient castles, crumbling ruins, and foggy landscapes, is a paranormal hotspot—and some say it’s one of the most haunted regions on Earth. In this guide, I’ll take you through 13 of the most haunted places in the UK—perfect for ghost hunters, curious travelers, or anyone brave enough to face the other side. Many even offer spine-tingling ghost tours if you’re ready to experience the unexplained up close.
1. Tower of London, England
- Location: London.
- Type: Historic castle & former prison.
- Best for: Ghost sightings, royal hauntings, guided ghost tours.
- Check out Yeoman Warder Ghost Tours at the Tower for chilling night visits and historical stories.
One of the most infamous landmarks in British history, the Tower of London has seen over 1,000 years of bloodshed, betrayal, and executions. It’s no wonder it’s believed to be crawling with spirits. The ghost of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s ill-fated second wife, is said to haunt the chapel where she’s buried—carrying her severed head.
Guards have also reported seeing the ghostly figures of two children believed to be the “Princes in the Tower,” murdered in the 15th century.
2. Edinburgh Vaults, Scotland
- Location: Edinburgh Old Town.
- Type: Underground tunnels.
- Best for: Underground ghost tours, extreme paranormal activity.
- Book a terrifying experience with Mercat Tours or City of the Dead Tours.
Hidden beneath Edinburgh’s bustling streets lies a dark network of tunnels and chambers known as the Edinburgh Vaults. These 18th-century vaults once housed taverns, storage rooms—and even criminals. Today, they’re considered one of the most haunted places in Scotland.
Paranormal investigators and tour groups have reported sudden cold spots, ghostly voices, and even scratch marks appearing on visitors. One infamous spirit, “Mr. Boots,” is known for stomping around and startling guests.
3. Pendle Hill, Lancashire
- Location: East Lancashire.
- Type: Countryside with witchcraft history.
- Best for: Witchcraft legends, eerie landscapes, walking tours.
Pendle Hill is steeped in dark folklore, most notably the Pendle Witch Trials of 1612. Twelve people were accused of witchcraft and ten were hanged—one of the most famous witch trials in English history. The spirits of these so-called witches are said to still roam the hill.
Locals and ghost hunters alike report whispering winds, shadows darting across the path, and a feeling of being watched. It’s popular with those looking to connect with the supernatural, especially during the misty twilight hours.
4. Berry Pomeroy Castle, Devon
- Location: Near Totnes, South Devon.
- Type: Castle ruins.
- Best for: Classic ghost sightings, haunted English countryside.
- Plan your ghost-hunting trip via English Heritage – Berry Pomeroy Castle.
Tucked in a wooded valley, Berry Pomeroy Castle might look peaceful—but it’s regarded as one of England’s most haunted ruins. The castle has ties to betrayal and heartbreak, with ghost stories passed down for generations.
Two spirits dominate the legend: the White Lady, thought to be Lady Margaret Pomeroy, who was starved to death in the dungeons by her jealous sister, and the Blue Lady, believed to be a tragic figure who died after murdering her own child.
5. Pluckley Village, Kent
- Location: Kent countryside.
- Type: Entire haunted village.
- Best for: Ghost sightings in pubs, churches, and country lanes.
- You can start at the Black Horse Inn—but don’t be surprised if your drink moves on its own.
Pluckley holds the title of “Britain’s Most Haunted Village”, as listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. With over 12 reported ghosts, including a screaming man, a phantom coach, and the spirit of a schoolmaster who hanged himself, the village is a magnet for ghost hunters and curious travelers alike.
The Black Horse pub, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Screaming Woods are among the hotspots. Most chilling is the tale of the Watercress Woman, who accidentally set herself on fire and now haunts the crossroads.
6. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland
- Location: Alnwick, Northumberland.
- Type: Haunted medieval castle.
- Best for: Extreme ghost activity, sleepover ghost hunts.
- Visit Chillingham Castle for ghost tours and overnight stays if you dare.
Dubbed “Britain’s Most Haunted Historic Castle,” Chillingham has a bloody past, complete with torture chambers and battlefields. The most famous spirit is the “Blue Boy,” often seen and heard wailing in the castle’s Pink Room.
Other paranormal hot spots include the Torture Chamber and the castle grounds, where soldiers are said to roam restlessly.
7. The Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire
- Location: Wotton-under-Edge.
- Type: Haunted former inn.
- Best for: Hardcore ghost hunters, demonic legends.
- Learn more at Ancient Ram Inn – Official Facebook
Built in 1145, this inn is reportedly home to some of the most intense paranormal activity in the UK. Linked to pagan burial grounds, witchcraft rituals, and even supposed demonic activity, the Ancient Ram Inn has scared off many who tried to spend the night.
Guests have reported unseen forces pulling them from bed, ghostly apparitions, and poltergeist activity. This one’s not for the faint-hearted.
8. Hampton Court Palace, London
- Location: Richmond upon Thames, Greater London.
- Type: Royal palace.
- Best for: Ghosts of Tudor royals, historical ghost walks.
- Book your visit or ghost tour via Historic Royal Palaces – Hampton Court
Once home to Henry VIII, this opulent palace is rife with ghost stories. The most chilling tale is of Catherine Howard, Henry’s fifth wife, who allegedly ran screaming through the gallery as she was dragged away to be executed.
Visitors frequently feel icy drafts, hear phantom footsteps, or even catch glimpses of Tudor-era figures.
9. Samlesbury Hall, Lancashire
- Location: Preston, Lancashire.
- Type: Historic manor house.
- Best for: White Lady hauntings, family-friendly ghost events.
- Check events and ghost nights at Samlesbury Hall
This black-and-white 14th-century manor is home to Lady Dorothy Southworth, also known as the White Lady. Legend says she died of heartbreak after being forbidden to marry her Catholic lover.
Her spirit is said to roam the hall and grounds, and many visitors report cold spots, flickering lights, and whispered voices.
10. Glamis Castle, Scotland
- Location: Angus, Scotland.
- Type: Royal castle.
- Best for: Royal hauntings, eerie legends.
- Plan your spooky visit via Glamis Castle Official Site.
Famous as the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, Glamis Castle is rumored to have secret rooms and a hidden monster. One of the most famous tales is of the “Monster of Glamis,” a deformed child hidden in a secret chamber.
There are also reports of the Grey Lady (Lady Janet Douglas), burned at the stake for witchcraft, and a ghostly card game played by the Devil himself.
11. Woodchester Mansion, Gloucestershire
- Location: Stroud, Gloucestershire.
- Type: Abandoned gothic mansion.
- Best for: Paranormal investigations, ghost hunts.
- Check out Woodchester Mansion Trust for public ghost hunts and tours.
This spooky unfinished Victorian mansion is a favorite among ghost hunters. It was mysteriously abandoned mid-construction, and strange happenings have plagued it ever since.
Paranormal researchers have captured apparitions, recorded strange sounds, and reported objects moving on their own.
12. Bodmin Jail, Cornwall
- Location: Bodmin, Cornwall.
- Type: Historic prison.
- Best for: Grim executions, immersive ghost experiences.
- Explore Bodmin Jail
Once home to notorious criminals and public executions, Bodmin Jail is a terrifyingly immersive attraction. Visitors report feeling touched, hearing screams, and encountering sudden cold pockets.
The jail has now been renovated into an interactive experience, including ghost walks and paranormal investigations inside its original cells.
13. Craig-y-Nos Castle, Wales
- Location: Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales.
- Type: Victorian Gothic castle.
- Best for: Sleepover ghost hunts, haunted opera house.
- Join a ghost hunt or book a haunted stay via Craig-y-Nos Castle
Once owned by famous opera singer Adelina Patti, Craig-y-Nos later became a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients. That mix of glamour and suffering has made it one of the most haunted places in Wales.
Guests report ghostly singing in the theatre, shadowy figures in hallways, and strange photos that reveal orbs or apparitions.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a firm believer in the paranormal or just intrigued by history’s darker side, these haunted UK spots offer an unforgettable mix of ghost stories and eerie atmosphere. From castles drenched in royal blood to entire villages with supernatural reputations, the UK is a ghost hunter’s paradise.
If you’re planning a visit, try going in autumn—when the mists roll in, the nights draw longer, and the spirits (some say) grow restless.
Quick Tips for Visiting Haunted Sites:
Book official ghost tours for access and safety.
Bring a flashlight and wear comfortable shoes.
Keep an open mind—and a camera ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the most haunted place in the UK?
A: The Tower of London is widely considered the most haunted, with sightings of Anne Boleyn and other historic ghosts.
Q2: Are these haunted places open to the public?
A: Yes, most offer guided ghost tours, public visits, or even overnight stays.
Q3: Is it safe to visit these haunted sites?
A: Absolutely. Tours are professionally run, but expect spooky surprises!
Q4: Can I take photos during ghost tours?
A: In most cases, yes—but always check with the tour provider beforehand.
Q5: What’s the best time to visit for a ghostly experience?
A: Autumn and winter evenings (especially around Halloween) offer the best atmosphere.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
