Here are 5 spooky places to visit in North Wales this October — each with its own eerie history, ghost stories or haunted vibes.
1. Conwy Castle (Conwy, Gwynedd)
Why it’s spooky: This grand medieval fortress features reports of two ghostly hooded monks drifting silently through the grounds. Dogs are said to refuse entering some parts of the castle.
Things to do: Wander its towers, battlements and riverside walls around dusk for maximum atmosphere.
Tip: Good lighting reduces the creep-factor; if you want full chills, go nearer dusk or on a misty day.
2. Plas Mawr (Conwy town)
Why it’s spooky: This beautifully preserved Elizabethan townhouse carries tales of a tragic accident: the house-owner’s wife and child died in the building and a young doctor disappeared via the chimney. Whispers, footsteps and other weird occurrences are reported.
Things to do: Book a guided evening tour if available (they do out-of-hours ghost-style events).
3. Ruthin Castle (Ruthin, Denbighshire)
Why it’s spooky: It’s described as one of the most haunted places in North Wales: ghostly cries of children, the figure of “Lady Grey” wandering battlements, unexplained footsteps and orbs have been reported.
Things to do: If you stay nearby (it’s now a hotel), you could take a twilight stroll around the older parts.
4. Beaumaris Gaol (Beaumaris, Anglesey)
Why it’s spooky: A former Victorian prison with reported hangings, cold spots, footsteps in the corridor, a feeling of being watched. One prisoner reputedly cursed a clock on his way to execution.
Things to do: Visit during quieter hours and explore the cells and corridors.
Tip: Entry may be limited; check opening times and any special ghost-tour events.
5. Zip World Ffear Fforest (near Betws-y-Coed, Conwy)
Why it’s spooky: This is less about historic ghosts and more about a modern scare attraction: woodland at night filled with terrifying clowns, paintball ranges in the dark and a full horror-theme event.
Things to do: Book a night-time pass and brace yourself for immersive scares.
Tip: Not suitable for very young children; dress warmly for being in woods at night.