London pulses with history, and with that comes its fair share of ghostly tales. From royal executions to eerie pubs, the city is brimming with haunted spots. If you’re seeking spine-tingling thrills, these eight haunted places should top your list.
Even better, many host special tours and Halloween events, where you can experience their haunted history firsthand.
1. Tower of London
The Tower of London stands as one of the most infamous haunted sites in the world. Spirits like Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s ill-fated wife, reportedly wander the grounds.
Visitors frequently claim to see her headless figure near the spot of her execution, while other ghostly figures, such as the mysterious White Lady, drift through the ancient walls.
Experience It: The Ghosts of the Tower of London Walking Tour brings the Tower’s gruesome history to life. As you explore the infamous grounds, you’ll hear chilling tales of imprisonment, execution, and the many ghostly apparitions that still linger in the shadows.
2. The Ten Bells Pub
Tied to the chilling Jack the Ripper murders, the Ten Bells Pub exudes an eerie atmosphere. Several victims of the infamous killer frequented the pub, and patrons report seeing their ghostly figures. Unexplained cold spots and sudden shifts in temperature only add to its unsettling vibe.
Experience It: The Jack the Ripper Ghost Tour includes a stop at the Ten Bells, offering a deep dive into the pub’s grim history and its ghostly residents.
3. Highgate Cemetery
Highgate Cemetery radiates an air of Gothic mystery. With its towering tombstones and overgrown pathways, it’s no wonder people frequently spot ghostly figures here. Shadows, eerie lights, and unexplained movements have all been reported, making it one of London’s spookiest spots.
Experience It: The Highlights Tour lets you explore iconic sites like the Egyptian Avenue and the Circle of Lebanon. The highlight, however, is exclusive access to the Terrace Catacombs, which are only opened for tour participants, adding an extra layer of mystery to your visit.
4. Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace holds a reputation for royal hauntings. Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII, allegedly runs screaming down the hallways, begging for mercy. Other spirits, such as a grey lady, appear in various parts of the palace, creating a ghostly presence felt by many visitors.
Experience It: Join a private Ghost Tour for a 90-minute spooky stroll through the empty courtyards and corridors. As you wander, spine-chilling ghost stories from the palace’s haunted past will unfold, creating a thrilling and memorable experience.
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5. The Viaduct Tavern
Once a debtor’s prison, the Viaduct Tavern hides a grim past. Its haunted reputation stems from its former inmates, whose spirits reportedly linger. Unexplained movements, eerie whispers, and even the feeling of invisible hands on your shoulder create an unsettling experience for those brave enough to visit.
Experience It: The Haunted London Pub Crawl often includes the Viaduct Tavern, combining a classic night out with the chance to uncover the city’s haunted drinking spots.
6. The Langham Hotel
The Langham Hotel, London’s most haunted luxury hotel, boasts an array of ghostly residents. A German prince haunts room 333, and guests have encountered a man with a disfigured face wandering the halls. These paranormal occurrences have been reported by several guests over the years, adding to the hotel’s chilling reputation.
Experience It: Book a stay at The Langham to see if you encounter one of its famous ghosts during your stay.
7. 50 Berkeley Square
50 Berkeley Square once held the title of the most haunted house in London. Its terrifying stories of apparitions and unexplained deaths have captivated many. The townhouse is said to be so haunted that some visitors never made it through the night, driven to madness by the ghostly activity.
Experience It: Although it doesn’t host events, the house often appears on West End Ghost Walk, where guides share the eerie tales of its haunted history.
8. The Old Bailey
Built over Newgate Prison, the Old Bailey is believed to be haunted by the restless spirits of prisoners. Visitors and staff alike have reported ghostly figures in the corridors and the faint sounds of clanging chains from long ago.
Experience It: While specific events aren’t held here, the Old Bailey features in The Fading Light London Ghost Walk, where guides reveal its grim past and paranormal encounters.
Dare to Explore London’s Haunted Side
London brims with haunted history, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a brush with the supernatural. These eight haunted sites offer a mix of eerie experiences, from ghost tours to Halloween events, allowing you to uncover the darker side of this historic city.
Plan your haunted adventure in London, and see if you can handle the chilling tales and ghostly encounters waiting at every turn.
Jack Baumann
President of Guidester
Jack Baumann has lived and traveled throughout Europe for over 15 years, creating Guidester in 2014. Over the years Guidester has developed into a unique travel concierge and tour company helping travelers make the most of their trip to Europe.
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