If you like a good old fashioned ghost story, how about immersing yourself in all things eerie this October with a Halloween holiday? We’ve rounded up eight of the UK’s spookiest spots where you can scare yourself silly. From a ghost bus tour in York to a museum of witchcraft in Cornwall, there’s plenty to get your teeth into here.
While these spine-tingling tours and activities might give you the heebie-jeebies, the amazing rentals close by certainly won’t! Choose from cosy cottages to snuggle up in, or family townhouses that’ll be a treat for all ages. With so many homes to choose from, finding your favourite haunt is as easy as pumpkin pie!
Famous for its links to the notorious witch trials of 1612, this bewitching area of Lancashire is ideal for a Halloween-inspired getaway. Aside from the witch trials, Pendle Hill is also known for its challenging walking trails, such as the 43-mile Pendle Way, at its atmospheric scenery.
When you’re relaxing at your private rental, how about getting stuck into Wuthering Heights for your holiday read? This gripping novel was penned by Emily Brontë who lived in the charming village of Haworth – it’s just a 40 minute drive from Pendle. Spend the day pottering around the cobblestone streets and visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum where you can find out more about how ‘Ellis Bell’ was inspired by the dramatic Yorkshire moors.
Pick a rental near Pendle Hill this Halloween
With its rugged coastline, historical harbour and abundance of wildlife, Boscastle feels a million miles away from the noise and distractions of the city. It’s the perfect place to get away from it all and take in the sea air. Pack up a picnic and enjoy an invigorating walk along the coast. Or maybe visit one of the many historic churches in the area.
When you’re not simply pottering around, visit the famous Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. This quirky museum was dubbed “weird and wonderful” by one TripAdvisor reviewer, so why not see it for yourself this Halloween!
One of Antrim’s most beautiful and haunting sites, Dunluce Castle, sits upon a rocky basalt outcrop, 100 feet above the sea. A few centuries ago the kitchens of this medieval castle slipped into the sea below taking the staff with them. It’s said that the spirits of those unfortunate souls still haunt the castle today! The views from the ruins are stunning so be sure to take some snaps while you’re there.
County Antrim is also famous for being the location for many Game of Thrones filming sites so if you’re a fan of the show it’s definitely worth booking a rental nearby and taking a tour. The world-famous Giant’s Causeway is just down the road from Dunluce Castle, so be sure to visit during your Halloween holiday!
Discover rentals near Dunluce Castle
York’s rich history, family-friendly activities and romantic cobbled streets are just a few of the reasons why this fascinating city makes a great choice for a Halloween holiday. Discover what life was like for the Vikings at the Jorvik Viking Centre. Hop on a boat and take a tour of York from the river. Or maybe see the imposing York Minster and other historical landmarks from the saddle on a bike tour.
The city is famous for its ghost walks and there are many to choose from. If you want something a bit different, how about this Ghost Bus Tour aboard a double-decker!
When it comes to Halloween getaways, Whitby should be high on your list. Whitby Abbey, with its Gothic architecture, is even more atmospheric on a misty autumn day. And between 25 – 31 October, the abbey will be illuminated with dramatic lighting – you might even see Dracula stalking the ruins!
Families will love the historical attractions, such as the Captain Cook Memorial and Whitby Museum. Visiting with your other half? Head to the picturesque Robin Hood’s Bay, with its sweeping sea views and eye-poppingly beautiful cliffs, for a romantic stroll.
The UK’s capital has seen its fair share of horrors over the centuries: from the plague and the Great Fire of London to Jack the Ripper, a walking tour is a great way to learn more about these blood-curdling events. If you want something a little more muggle-friendly, this enchanting Harry Potter walking tour is a must. At the end of a busy day, pop into a bakery and treat yourself to some Halloween-themed goodies before settling down for the evening at your private holiday rental.
When you’re not busy ghost-hunting, you’ll find hundreds of things to see and do in London (which probably goes without saying!); The Tate, the Houses of Parliament, the National Portrait Gallery, the Tower of London, the London Dungeons and the Globe Theatre, to name but a few.
Look for a spooktacular stay in London
Home to the Royal Mile, the Edinburgh Fringe, Edinburgh Castle and the spine-chillingly fascinating Mary King’s Close, this beautiful city is perfect for an autumn getaway. You’ll find a vault-load of ghost tours here, from the horrifying to the hilarious! Afterwards, why not cosy up with your other half over a bowl of warming cullen skink (a Scottish fish soup) before heading back to your rental where you can tell more spooky stories into the early hours.
With street performers, art exhibitions and museums around every corner. There’s never a dull moment in Edinburgh, whatever the season.
Tucked away in a deep wooded valley, Berry Pomeroy Castle is a romantic ruin with a colourful history of intrigue. It was started in the 15th century but never completed, and by 1700 it was abandoned. The castle became the focus of blood-curdling ghost stories, recounted in the audio tour. The location of the castle makes it ideal for walkers who can explore the nearby beautiful woodland or you can enjoy a light lunch, home-made cake or restorative cup of tea in the cafe.
Within a short drive are Totnes Castle and Dartmouth Castle, making it an ideal day out for families. And with so many rentals to choose from, booking a Halloween break in Totnes is far from scary!
Take a look at rentals in Totnes
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