The spooky season is almost upon us and search terms such as ‘haunted places to stay in England’ and ‘most haunted places in England’ have seen a huge increase over the past 12 months, but where are the best destinations for thrill-seekers to experience some ghostly goings-on?
Here are 8 of the most haunted places in the UK, according to research by holidaycottages.co.uk – in case you fancy a nerve-jangling trip out this Halloween!
. Pendle Hill
Renowned for its links to witchcraft and devil worship, Pendle Hill in Lancashire is a very spooky site. This mysterious and scary space was said to be home to the Pendle witches who were accused of ten murders back in the 17th century and were later executed. It’s said that visitors have noticed an intense feeling of anger when exploring the grounds, so if you’re visiting, watch out for the witches ... and keep calm! Photo: nw
. Jamaica Inn
Located in Cornwall, the Jamaica Inn is believed to be haunted by a highwayman and a murdered smuggler. Situated inside the inn, the bar is rumoured to be one of the most haunted areas and previous landlords have even heard footsteps supposedly belonging to a spirit returning to finish his drink. Photo: site
5. Dunster Castle
If it’s ghosts you want to see, Somerset’s Dunster Castle is a must-visit location. This paranormal hot spot has had many reports of strange experiences, from ghostly appearances to spine-tingling sensations. Visitors have even witnessed an eerie man in green walking through the castle, before disappearing right in front of their eyes! There have also been reports of male voices and loud footsteps echoing through the castle grounds. Photo: hc
6. Llancaiach Fawr
Named as one of the top ten most haunted places in the UK, Llancaiach Fawr in Caerphilly is a Tudor mansion with a haunted history. Its supernatural activity regularly spooks visitors, with people reporting that they can hear children playing on the stairs – in particular, one boy has been said to mischievously tug at visitors’ sleeves and hair. Photo: hc
7. Mary King's Close
Located in Edinburgh, the streets of Mary King’s Close hold a frightening past. There are many stories to delve into at this horrifying hot spot. One tells the tale of a little girl who lost her life to the plague and was in search of a doll that she had misplaced; it is said that her presence can be felt when visiting. Photo: hc
8. Croft Castle
Croft Castle, also known as the most haunted house in the West Midlands, is home to seven spooky spectres. There have been many reports of unsettling sightings including a 7-foot figure of a man lurking in the grounds. Visitors have also apparently heard a baby crying when exploring the haunted fortress. Photo: hc