Take a trip to one of these spots … if you dare!
Perched along the Antrim coastline, the historic Ballygally Castle was built in 1625 by James Shaw and has evolved through the centuries to become one of the region’s most treasured destinations and a bona fide haunted hotel. This year, the hotel is celebrating its 400 year anniversary, leaning in to its spooky reputation with a series of themed offers which includes a Murder Mystery evening and a Trick or Treat Castle Retreat designed for families and thrill-seekers. Guests can explore the turret room, said to be haunted by resident ghost Lady Isabella Shaw, whose tragic story dates back to the 17th century. @ballygally_castle_official
Often cited as Ireland’s most haunted building, the Gothic Charleville Castle, Co Offaly is home to the spirit of Harriet, a young girl who died on the staircase in the 1800s; her laughter and sometimes sobs echo through the halls. Paranormal investigators have reported spikes in electromagnetic readings near the staircase and crypt. Candlelit tours are offered for the brave! @charlevillecastle
Cahernane House Hotel, Co Kerry, wasn’t always a hotel. Originally purchased as a family residence for Henry Herbert in 1877, it has retained the feel of a stately home, and its Victorian charm still impresses guests. But a building as old and grand as Cahernane surely harbours spooky stories? Many visitors have reported encountering the ghost of Gwendolyn Herbert, daughter of the original owner. She glides up the grand hand-carved oak staircase, her presence lingering in the air. Legend has it that despite numerous attempts to cover a child’s painting on the wall in the old nursery, it stubbornly reappears as if etched into the fabric of the house.
Muckross House in Killarney National Park is also said to have its own ghosts. Perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of a spectral figure wandering its halls?
Ross Castle, on the shore of Lough Leane in Kells, Co Meath has a rich history and its fair share of ghostly tales. The castle was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century and is believed to be one of Ireland’s most haunted castles. It’s believed that every seven years O’Donoghue rises from the lake and circles the shore on a white horse, with those lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the spectre guaranteed good fortune for the rest of their lives! @ross_castle_ir
Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan has also received over 40 spooky mentions by former guests. A popular choice of room is the Red Room, said to be haunted by former resident Norman Leslie. Guests may also experience paranormal activities such as the sounds of a child crying, the spirits of a monk and ‘Lady Constance’ haunting the corridor. @castleleslie
Dublin’s grande dame, The Shelbourne has welcomed guests (and ghost hunters) for over 200 years – such an historic building has plenty of stories to tell and apparently ghostly encounters too. One such is a little girl called Mary Masters who is heard crying on occasion and another is the playful ghost of opera singer Margaret Bourke Sheridan, after which a suite was named. She has been known to move memorabilia, including recordings of the Irish soprano’s best roles – she was famously Puccini’s favourite Butterly. I’ve stayed in this elegant suite and, most importantly, survived to tell the tale … @theshelbournedublin
