We all love spooky season, and what better way to celebrate Halloween than a fiendishly frightening night away in a haunted hotel? Combining ghoulish fun with things that go bump in the night, the UK is home to a number of haunted places to stay, perfect for Halloween holidays. Join CrossCountry on our ghostly tour of the creepiest haunted hotels in the UK.
Jamaica Inn, Bodmin
If you know anything about Bodmin, you’ll know that it is the perfect spooky setting for a ghoulish night away. From UFO sightings to the Beast of Bodmin, the wild scenery makes an atmospheric backdrop to tales of supernatural sightings.
In Bodmin, the best place to spot a spirit is the 18th century Jamaica Inn. Set on Bodmin Moor, the Inn was once a coaching stop for travellers making their way between Exeter and Falmouth. Its clientele is said to have included smugglers, who used the inn as a secret trading spot.
One of Jamaica Inn’s reported ghosts is named Jack, who is said to knock over drinks and generally cause mischief.
The Jamaica Inn is in the heart of Bodmin Moor, so the nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway. You can take a twenty-minute taxi from the station to the inn.
The Black Swan, York
York is well known for its eerie history, which you can explore on a ghost walk of the city. The Black Swan Inn has been part of historic York since 1417. Said to be home to multiple spirits, the half-timbered black-and-white exterior and luxurious draperies on the four-poster beds add to its spooky mystery.
If you’re eager to go spirit-spotting, head to the bar where visitors have reportedly seen the apparition of a businessman dressed in a bowler hat. Those who have seen him say he looks to be impatiently waiting for someone, accompanied by the ticking of his pocket watch.
According to local ghost stories, another resident entity is affectionately known as ‘Legs’, a disembodied pair of roving limbs marching around the property.
The Black Swan Inn is a twenty-minute walk away from York station.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel, near Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a wonderful place to visit for many reasons, including its wealth of spooky attractions. One of the best ways to get a feel for Edinburgh’s spine-tingling history is a Dalhousie Castle Hotel, which is said to be a hub for supernatural activity.
According to the castle’s ghost stories, Lady Catherine, known as the Grey Lady, is said to haunt the property after dying at just 16. She is often seen keeping a watchful eye over the grounds from the towering turrets or down in the dungeons.
Lumley Castle, Chester-le-Street
With a rich history dating back six hundred years, staying at Lumley Castle offers medieval décor that immediately sets an eerie mood. Lily Lumley, the famous ghost of the castle, can be found in the castle’s ancient rooms. With the help of Escape Rooms Durham, you can puzzle your way to freeing her from a spooky curse! If you’re a fan of codes and problem-solving, be sure to check out our favourite escape rooms across the UK.
To visit, catch a train with an alternative provider to Chester-le-Street station on the main line. From there, the castle is just a five-minute taxi or a twenty-minute bus journey. If you’re travelling to Lumley Castle from Edinburgh Waverley, catch a CrossCountry train to Newcastle, where you can change for Chester-le-Street.
Malmaison, Oxford
Malmaison in Oxford offers a unique, luxurious, and splendidly creepy hotel experience. Located within the former HM Prison Oxford and parts of the historic Oxford Castle Quarter, this boutique hotel allows guests to sleep in beautifully made-up former Victorian jail cells!
Given its long history as a prison, it is no surprise the area is rife with ghostly tales. One of the best-known ghost stories associated with the site is that of Mary Blandy, who is said to still haunt the property. Ghost hunters have also reported encountering a 12th-century monk in the ancient crypt, as well as unexplained smoky apparitions and sudden cold chills.
Getting there is exceptionally easy: Oxford station is a major hub on the CrossCountry network, and the hotel is just a ten-minute walk.
Please note: CrossCountry is unable to support with any hotel related queries or booking requests. For further information, please contact the hotels mentioned directly.
If you’re looking to find some haunted places to stay, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Info
At the time of publishing, all information given is correct. Details of events, businesses, and locations included may be subject to change by third parties. Please make sure to check any details with organisers before you travel.
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