Cumbria during the autumn can be a spooky sight indeed. The mist and fog rolling over the hills provide the perfect backdrop for a ghost tale or two.
The Lake District is no stranger to myths and folklore – so what better place to celebrate than exploring this beautiful and historical location?
Brits are looking for spooky things to do to get into the Halloween spirit and we feel there is no better place to explore than here in Cumbria.
Top 4 spookiest locations in the Lake District
1. Muncaster Castle
Muncaster Castle, with a history dating back to the Roman era and centuries of births, deaths, and the War of the Roses, is crowned as the most haunted location in the Lake District.
The castle is home to several ghosts, including Thomas Skelton, the White Lady, and Margaret Pennington, with numerous reported paranormal experiences, making it a hotspot for ghostly tales.
We spent the night over at our new client Moresby Hall Hotel near Whitehaven. We’re rebranding and creating a new website for this Grade I listed building. It’s absolutely stunning. pic.twitter.com/e4VxdEe0bT
— Marketing Optimist (@MarketOptimist) August 24, 2023
2. Moresby Hall
In the second spot, Moresby Hall, a Grade I-listed building from the late 12th century, stands as a renowned haunted location with tales of spirits, ghostly sounds, and uncanny events handed down through generations.
The hall is linked to the tragic story of a Jacobite who sought refuge within the walls of the hall’s hidden rooms but was forgotten and perished. Visitors and staff have also reported encounters with a cavalier ghost on the stairs, shadowy figures in the corners of the rooms, and mysterious cries of a child during the night, adding to the hall's supernatural reputation.
3. Lowther Castle
Securing the third position is Lowther Castle, long owned by the Lowther family, who inhabited the castle for centuries. The most prevalent accounts of paranormal activity involve the apparition of the former resident, James Lowther, famously dubbed 'Wicked Jimmy.'
James Lowther, recognised for his extravagant and audacious conduct, is believed to haunt the castle's grounds, often seen riding a horse or sitting on his bed, perpetuating the legend of his ghostly presence.
Spectacular and atmospheric Lowther Castle, Cumbria 😍
— Kate North (@katephillips29) October 21, 2023
A short photo thread… pic.twitter.com/OZ3Q3uKM36
4. Carlisle Castle
Occupying the fourth spot is Carlisle Castle, with a rich history of serving as both a military fortress and royal residence across centuries, witnessing numerous conflicts, including the English Civil War. Among its most famous ghostly tales is the 'Bricked Scottish Lady,' a tragic figure whom guards have reported sighting.
According to legend, she was walled up within the castle while alive and left to starve, with her skeleton discovered during 18th-century construction and demolition activities, adding to the castle's scary atmosphere.
Commenting on this Sarah Pring, Digital PR Manager of Sally’s Cottages said: “Celebrating Halloween by exploring haunted locations in the Lake District is a fascinating way to bridge the gap between history and the supernatural, especially for those seeking spooky goings on in a beautiful location.
“The Lake District has centuries of history to offer, alongside its natural beauty – so if you’re looking to take your time exploring the area, you can find plenty of wonderful properties to rest your head after a long day of ghostly goings on.”
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