With Halloween Fast Approaching: 5 Places to Visit in Newcastle & Northumberland with Folklore and Ghost Stories
Introduction:
With Halloween fast approaching, there's no better time to explore the eerie and mysterious side of Northumberland. This historic county in the northeast of England not only boasts stunning landscapes and a rich history but also hides a world filled with ancient legends and tales of restless spirits. Join us on a journey to five places in Northumberland that are steeped in folklore and haunted by ghostly apparitions.
Alnwick Castle:
Alnwick Castle, one of the most iconic castles in England, has a history that dates back over a thousand years. It's believed a legendary vampire would prowl the streets of Alnwick which was once a deceased man who served the lord of the castle.
Ghost Story: Visitors and staff at Alnwick Castle have reported various ghostly encounters over the years. Some have claimed to see the ghost of The Grey Lady dressed in white, while others have heard eerie footsteps in the dead of night.
Chillingham Castle:
Chillingham Castle, known as one of the most haunted castles in England, is surrounded by tales of torture and gruesome deaths. The castle is said to be home to malevolent spirits, and the surrounding woods are inhabited by the Chillingham Wild Cattle, a rare and ancient breed.
Brave souls who visit Chillingham Castle have reported encounters with the "Blue Boy," a young boy dressed in blue who is said to have been bricked up alive in the castle walls. The torture chamber and dungeons also host eerie paranormal activity, making it a must-visit for ghost hunters. While you're there, you can also explore the fascinating Chillingham Wild Cattle as a unique attraction in the area.
Dunstanburgh Castle:
Dunstanburgh Castle, a ruined fortress perched dramatically on the Northumberland coast, is associated with the tale of Sir Guy the Seeker, a knight who sought the Holy Grail. Legend has it that his ghost still wanders the castle grounds in search of the elusive relic.
Visitors have reported seeing a mysterious figure in armour roaming the castle's ruins, believed to be the restless spirit of Sir Guy. The castle's desolate beauty and the haunting atmosphere make it an ideal spot for experiencing the eerie side of Northumberland.
The Schooner Hotel, Alnmouth:
Nestled in the picturesque town of Alnmouth in Northumberland, is a place steeped in history and ghostly tales. This charming 17th-century inn has earned a reputation as one of England's most haunted hotels, with reports of eerie apparitions and mysterious occurrences dating back centuries. Guests have shared spine-tingling encounters with spectral figures, seeing shadows, hearing crying, shouts and screams of those said to roam the creaking corridors and shadowy corners of the building.
Bamburgh Castle:
Bamburgh Castle, overlooking the North Sea, has a rich history spanning centuries, as well as a featuring role in the recent Netflix drama, The Last Kingdom.
Visitors to Bamburgh Castle have reported encounters with phantom knights in shining armour and the ghostly figures of the Pink Lady and the Green Lady, who are said to roam the castle grounds.
Conclusion:
As Halloween approaches, Northumberland's charm extends beyond its picturesque landscapes and historic sites; it's a region where the past and the supernatural converge. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a ghost hunter, these five places offer a glimpse into Northumberland's rich folklore and chilling ghost stories. So, plan your visit, but beware of the spectral inhabitants that may greet you in the dark corners of this captivating county.