Ghosts of History

Newcastle Castle is leaning into its spooky side this autumn with Ghosts of History, a Halloween-themed season running from 1 October to 2 November. The Castle describes itself as 'Newcastle's most haunted', and the whole thing is built around the people who lived, worked and died within its walls. It's not just one thing, but a few different ways to see the site over the course of the month.

Much of the season draws on the Castle's own history — a Norman keep, a medieval gatehouse, surviving stretches of town wall and several hundred years of plague, executions and river trade. From there it traces the city's past from the Romans and Anglo-Saxons through to the Victorians, with medieval prisoners and the people caught up in Newcastle's infamous witch trials along the way. If you're out with the family, there's a self-led Trick or Treat Trail during October Half Term, where you hunt for hidden ghosts and crack a secret message. There are also Gory Tours, guided walks through the darkest stories of the Keep, and both of those are included in the annual pass.

Beyond the half-term activities, the Castle runs Halloween Walking Tours every Monday and Friday. Then, on 29, 30 and 31 October, there's a 60-minute after-dark Ghost Tour for when the sun's gone down. And if you're keeping an eye out, you might meet Jane Martin, a real figure from Newcastle's witch trials. Admission is free, and the whole thing runs from 1 October to 2 November at Newcastle Castle, Castle Garth, NE1 1RQ.