7 Haunted Hotels For A Spooky Staycation This October

Looking for a hauntingly beautiful hotel getaway with a twist this Halloween? Of course you are.

Maybe you have a taste for all things afterlife, or you’d like to test your bravery while dancing with the spirits?

Here are 7 haunting hotel stays that are sure to get your heart racing this spooky season.

You’re welcome.

1. The Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin

The Shelbourne Hotel boasts over 200 years of Irish history.

That history includes the life and death of a little girl named Mary Masters. Guests have reported hearing her mournful cries in the middle of the night, with some even feeling her presence at the foot of their beds.

2. Kinnitty Castle, Offaly

 

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The Kinnitty Castle has been present in its current site for over 800 years.

If you’re looking for some real paranormal activity this Halloween- why not meet the most famous spirit to wander the halls at Kinnity – a friendly monk.

He is said to interact with both guests and staff alike. For a haunted night, book the Geraldine or Elizabeth bedrooms.

3. Blackwater Castle, Cork

Blackwater Castle is steeped in 1,000 years of history… although there have been plenty of upgrades over the years. It is host to stunning views which are bound to leave you breathless.

For thrill-seekers, you can attempt to set your sights on the most famous spirit that lingers in the property, Lady Roche, a woman killed for defending the property in the year 1650.

4. Kilkea Castle, Kildare

 

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If you’re interested in the more mystical side of things, take a trip to Kilkea Castle.

If you get your timing right, you might have a chance to meet with the sorcerer during one of his visits to the castle.

These sightings only happen once every seven years though, so plan your travel accordingly.

5. Castle Leslie Estate, Monaghan

If you’re up for a night of paranormal interactions, and maybe even some levitation, you can test your will at Castle Leslie Estate.

The Leslie family have occupied the property since the 1600s, and while they still run it, their ancestors also haunt it.

Deceased family members, Norman and Constance Leslie are said to frequently appear in two distinct rooms – the Red Room and the Mauve Room.

6. Ballyseede Castle, Co Kerry

Head to the Kingdom for some haunts at Ballyseede Castle!

Since it was built in the 16th century, the castle has been home to plenty of spectres. The Earl of Desmond was decapitated on the grounds of Ballyseede Castle.

More recently, IRA prisoners were mutilated by machine-gun fire at the gates of the castle in retaliation for the killing of Free State Lieutenant Paddy O’Connor.

The Blennerhasset family occupied the castle until 1966 when Hilda the last remaining Blennerhassett died. The most famous ghost is Hilda who is said to appear every year on March 24. So if you can’t book in for October, your best bet is March.

7. Ross Castle, Co Meath

Ross Castle was built in 1533 by the Lord of Devon Richard Nugent who was known the Black Baron. And his daughter, Sabina, is said to haunt the halls to this day.

In fact, visitors to the hotel have been known to be woken up in the middle of the night by Sabina. Especially, if you stay in Sabina’s Room.

In her life, Sabina fell in love with an Irish man and the couple ran away together. During their escape, their boat was struck down and her lover was killed. Sabina survived but now her ghost haunts the castle looking for her lost lover.

Her agonising wail is said to still be heard today around 3 or 4am in the back right room of the castle. While the Black Baron’s spirit is known to appear to terrified visitors.

Words by Rebekah O’Reilly

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• October
• travel