If you’re ready to get your spook on, embark on a chilling journey into the heart of the UK’s most haunted! We’ve handpicked exciting locations with ghoulish ghost stories, spine-tingling tales, and some welcoming nearby hotels, where restless spirits dare not tread, for a great rest and retreat.
1. Berry Pomeroy Castle
Where: Berry Pomeroy, Totnes TQ9 6LJ
Ghost Story: One of the most haunted places in the British Isles, the once majestic castle, whilst only retaining a small portion of its former glory and grandeur, still captivates thousands of visitors. Berry Pomeroy Castle in Devon is the home to various spirits and spectres, with visitors reporting unexplained voices, strange lights, spooky shadows, ghostly sightings and apparitions of the Blue Lady and White Lady.
The White Lady is said to have been the restless soul of Margaret Pomeroy, who haunts the dungeons of St. Margaret’s Tower, waving to visitors and longing for company. Her story is one of jealousy, as it was her own sister Eleanor who confined her to the dungeons to starve to death.
The Blue Lady lures visitors around the castle, often getting them lost in the process. She is said to be the daughter of a castle Lord. Due to the devastating story surrounding her history and hauntings, she was believed to be an omen of death amongst the previous owners of the castle.
Where to stay nearby: Torbay Court Hotel (Steartfield Road, Paignton, Devon TQ3 2BJ)
A 20-minute drive East takes you to The Torbay Court Hotel, a warm, friendly hotel, perfect for relaxing or exploring what else South Devon has to offer. Boasting 58 en-suite bedrooms, with tea and coffee facilities, complimentary toiletries, flatscreen TVs and free Wifi, you are sure to have a peaceful night’s sleep. Some rooms have the added features of whirlpool baths and sea views, to make your stay that little bit more special. Breakfast is included as standard when stopping overnight and delicious, locally sourced evening meals are served by head chef Paul and the team at The Bay Brassiere Restaurant.
2. Borely Rectory
Where: Borely, Sudbury, Essex – (Exact location unknown)
Ghost Story: Built in 1863, on the site of an old monastery, Borley Rectory, Essex is infamous for being labelled as the “most haunted house in England”, although some of the stories have been questioned regarding their credibility. Whilst the house burnt down in 1939 and what remained was demolished in 1944, the history surrounding this location is an exciting one for those who enjoy all things supernatural.
The most famous ghostly experience is a nun sighting, and given the land’s history, this is unusual. Folklore dictates that a nun, from the nearby nunnery, fell in love with a monk from the monastery. After attempting to elope together, the couple were discovered and sentenced to death.
The nun received a rather torturous end, being sealed into the walls of the nunnery alive, whilst the monk was reported to have been sent to the gallows in the monastery. It is said to be this nun who wanders the grounds of Borley Rectory, searching for her beloved monk. Other spooky encounters such as mysterious footsteps and doorbells ringing on their own have also been reported.
Where to stay nearby: Mill Hotel (Walnut Tree Lane, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 1BD)
Although the exact site of the Rectory is unknown, just a ten-minute drive from the Borley Church is The Mill Hotel. Nestled in the breathtaking Suffolk countryside, this converted water mill with its own history, is the perfect location for all travellers, being situated near local attractions and other cultural sites. The Mill Hotel features 62 modern en suite bedrooms, completed to a high standard, many with views of the majestic meadows, with free Wifi and on-site parking.
When it comes to dining, the local surroundings set the mark for the best-of-British menu, with produce sourced directly from Suffolk’s farmers and artisans. Enjoy a meticulously prepared meal whilst soaking up the charming ambience of the working waterwheel or enjoy a nightcap, breathing in the fresh air, at the bar’s roof terrace.
3. Aston Hall
Where: Trinity Rd, Birmingham B6 6JD
Ghost Story: Another of the UK’s most haunted buildings is Aston Hall, with a 400-year history of macabre murders, ghostly figures, and sinister goings on. The property was built during the Jacobean period and was one of the first historic country houses to fall into municipal ownership after being purchased by the Birmingham Corporation.
Sir Thomas Holte, who resided in Aston Hall, continues to have a rather criminal and mysterious narrative. His actions whilst in the house are key contributors to ghost stories that are told today, for example, the cook whom he supposedly murdered, along with his daughter, kept locked away for 16 years until her death, as well as the “Green Lady”, supposedly the old housekeeper, who is still keeping watch over the hall to this day.
Where to stay nearby: Clayton Hotel Birmingham (Albert Street, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 5JE)
A short 10-minute drive away, into the city centre, is the award-winning Clayton Hotel Birmingham, a modern, family-friendly hotel. A variety of contemporary, well-decorated rooms await, all with tea and coffee facilities, climate control, flatscreen TVs and complimentary Wifi. With dining options from as early as 6:30am to as late as 9:30pm., including bottomless brunches and afternoon tea, you will never go hungry at the Clayton Hotel Birmingham. Flavourful and freshly prepared food is on offer at the Grill Restaurant and Alvar Bar for every traveller to enjoy.
4. Tower of London
Where: London EC3N 4AB
Ghost Story: Situated on the north bank of the River Thames in London City is the famous Tower of London. Housing centuries of history and recognised for the Beefeaters and Crown Jewels, it was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th Century.
Beyond the formidable fortress and royal residency, the Tower was also the backdrop to some of the most harrowing events, including the executions and torture of Guy Fawkes, Anne Boleyn, Henry VI, Lady Arbella Stuart, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey. Alongside these; terrible murders, treason, and various secrets are the reason this site is one of the most haunted places in Britain. The tower is now supposedly home to 13 ghosts, each with their own gruesome story to tell.
The Tower of London has been a tourist attraction since the 18th Century, allowing guests to experience the chilling atmosphere and try to witness one of the many apparitions. You can visit the Tower yourself or take a guided tour, hearing the ghost stories as you visit this monumental location.
Where to stay nearby: The Montcalm at Brewery London City (52 Chiswell Street, Islington, London EC1Y 4SA)
A short taxi ride or a quick journey on the London Underground will lead you to The Montcalm at Brewery London City, a five-star hotel offering modern, luxury en-suite bedrooms with 24-hour concierge service, flatscreen TVs, free Wifi and iPod docks.
Enjoy a mouth-watering meal at one of two buzzing bars and restaurants, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If, after a thrilling experience at the local haunting ground, you would prefer to take advantage of room service, rest assured that a menu is available, and every taste is catered for.
5. Mary King’s Close
Where: 2 Warriston’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1PG
Ghost Story: A chilling story of the plague and the ghost of a little girl surrounds Mary King’s Close; a maze of closes
lying beneath Edinburgh’s streets, with dwellings of up to seven stories, where people lived and worked. The lower class and poorer residents were based on the bottom floors, and the wealthier at the top.
You can imagine in a space so crowded, diseases would have no issue spreading and this is exactly what happened when the plague broke out in the 17th Century. Rumours would have you believe that the narrow streets of Mary King’s Close were sealed up, leaving those inside to die, albeit this was not the case, despite how ghastly a story that would make.
There are tales of disembodied limbs and gruesome-looking ghost dogs, to add to the disgusting tales of Mary King’s Close, however, the most famous story is that of Annie the ghost girl. Japanese medium Aiko Gibo visited the close in the 90s, whilst making a film about haunted places in Britain. When coming across a certain dwelling in the close, she could not enter, due to a feeling of unhappiness and despair. When she was able to cross the threshold, it is said that a young girl called Annie spoke out to Gibo, stating that she had died in 1645 and had lost her favourite doll.
Heartbroken, Gibo purchased a doll from a local shop and returned to leave it for the spirit of Annie, which is said to have given the spirit comfort. Over the years, as tourists frequent the area, many have left dolls, toys, and jewellery in honour of Annie.
Where to stay nearby: Cairn Hotel & Apartments (10/18 Windsor Street, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH7 5JR)
Just over one mile from this eerie location is the Cairn Hotel and Apartments. Situated in Edinburgh’s centre, this contemporary Scottish retreat is the ideal place for visiting local attractions. 52 en-suite bedrooms and suites are perfect for all travellers, featuring free Wifi, tea and coffee-making facilities, complimentary snacks, and a TV. Dining options are available at the award-winning restaurant, just a five-minute walk away, at the sister hotel.
Get in touch to book your next haunted getaway:
📱 01775 843413
💻 reservations@infotel.co.uk