Top 10 Haunted Medieval Castles to Visit in England

England is home to a wealth of medieval castles, each with its own rich history and legends.




“Within the ancient walls of England’s medieval castles lie the whispers of centuries past. These haunted fortresses bear witness to turbulent times and the lingering spirits of those who once inhabited them. Exploring these eerie halls is like stepping back in time, immersing oneself in the fascinating tales of love, betrayal, and tragedy that still echo through the stone.

Professor Emily Collins, Historical Ghostlore Specialist

Many of these ancient fortresses are believed to be haunted, shrouded in eerie tales and ghostly encounters.

For those seeking a spine-chilling adventure, we present the top 10 haunted medieval castles in England.

Explore these haunted halls if you dare, but be prepared for encounters with the supernatural.


1. Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle, known as the “Key to England,” boasts a long and eventful history, and is rumored to be haunted by several spirits. Visitors have reported sightings of a ghostly drummer and the apparitions of soldiers roaming the castle grounds.

Official Website


2. Tower of London, London

The Tower of London, with its dark past and numerous tales of executions and torture, is no stranger to ghostly encounters. Visitors and staff have reported sightings of famous ghosts, including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and the haunting specter of the Headless Horseman.

Official Website


3. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland

Chillingham Castle is renowned as one of England’s most haunted castles. With a long history of bloodshed and paranormal activity, visitors may encounter the ghosts of former prisoners, the “Blue Boy,” and the infamous White Lady.

Official Website


4. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Warwick Castle is not only known for its splendid architecture but also for its ghostly inhabitants. The chilling tales include sightings of a ghostly woman wandering the castle corridors, a spectral figure known as “The Monk,” and the restless spirits of past castle residents.

Official Website


5. Berry Pomeroy Castle, Devon

Berry Pomeroy Castle is said to be one of the most haunted castles in England. The ruins are said to be haunted by the “White Lady” and the “Blue Lady,” who are believed to be the spirits of two tragic sisters.

Official Website


6. Muncaster Castle, Cumbria

Muncaster Castle, nestled in the Lake District, is steeped in history and ghostly tales. Visitors have reported encounters with the “White Lady,” a ghostly figure believed to be the spirit of a former resident, as well as other paranormal phenomena.

Official Website


7. Pendennis Castle, Cornwall

Pendennis Castle, overlooking Falmouth Bay, is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a soldier from the English Civil War. Visitors have reported hearing ghostly footsteps and feeling a chilling presence in the castle’s dark corners.

Official Website


8. Herstmonceux Castle, East Sussex

Herstmonceux Castle, with its majestic turrets and beautiful gardens, is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a former resident, a white lady known as the “Lady in White.” Visitors have reported sightings of her ethereal figure wandering the castle grounds.

Official Website


9. Glamis Castle, Scotland (near the English border)

Although located in Scotland, Glamis Castle, just across the English border, is worth a mention for its ghostly reputation. The castle’s haunted tales include a secret chamber, the ghost of the “Grey Lady,” and other unexplained phenomena.

Official Website


10. Tutbury Castle, Staffordshire

Tutbury Castle is steeped in history and is said to be haunted by the spirits of former royalty, including Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps, whispers, and even witnessing full apparitions within the castle walls.

Official Website



“The haunted medieval castles of England offer a unique glimpse into the darker side of history. Each shadowy corridor and crumbling turret holds secrets untold, preserving the enigmatic stories of the past. These spectral encounters not only captivate the imagination but also provide valuable insights into the beliefs and fears of our medieval ancestors, making them an essential pilgrimage for history enthusiasts and paranormal enthusiasts alike.”

Dr. William Holloway, Castle Historian and Paranormal Researcher

England’s medieval castles are not just architectural marvels but also repositories of history and legends. For those seeking an eerie and unforgettable experience, these haunted castles offer a glimpse into the realm of the supernatural.

Whether you encounter ghostly apparitions, hear unexplained sounds, or simply immerse yourself in the chilling atmosphere, a visit to these top 10 haunted medieval castles in England is sure to leave you with spine-tingling memories that will last a lifetime.