When it comes to creepy places, Britain seems to have them in spades. Home to some of the oldest and most historic homes, this country has seen its fair share of eerie homesteads over the centuries. During the fall, visits to British castles seem to spike and it's not surprising - these once-elegant homes now carry the ghosts of former owners, wartimes, and memories of centuries passed.
Of all those that have stories to tell, these are some of the most famed castles in the U.K. - especially when it comes to tourism following the month of August.
8 Chillingham Castle
Despite its name, Chillingham Castle wasn't always known to be such an eerie place. However, it's now known as one of the most 'haunted' castles in all of Britain which has made it a bucket-list destination for many people who visit Northumberland. Throughout the year, the castle hosts special ghost tours that are preceded by a unique candlelit meal in the Minstrel's Hall prior to the tour.
7 Berry Pomeroy Castle
This castle was once the home of the Seymour family, who was known for their power throughout England. The castle itself is owned by English Heritage and is open to visitors for tours; however, there are no guarantees that there will be no uninvited guests. According to the somewhat tortured history of Berry Pomeroy, tales of jealousy and resentment are what fuel the spirits who are said to wander the halls of this castle. Of them, both the White Lady and the Blue Lady are the most commonly seen.
6 Fyvie Castle
One wouldn't know it simply by looking at this castle - as it has been kept up incredibly well - but it dates back to the 13th century. Fyvie Castle is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and it has a long history, one that's longer than most. Those who visit the basement of this castle might be privy to see the name of Dane Lilias Drummond, who was said to have marked it there after her death. The story goes that her death was the result of a broken heart when her husband, Sir Alexander Seton, had an affair - she's now been given the name of the Green Lady.
5 Tutbury Castle
Tutbury Castle is located in Burton-on-Trent, which was claimed in 1071 by Norman conquerors. Since then, it has been home to the thrones of many mighty kings, thus giving it a reputation throughout Britain. While it's said that there are many restless spirits who potentially roam this castle, one of the most famed is Mary Queen of Scots. The queen was imprisoned in the castle for 14 years before eventually being beheaded, and many visitors have claimed to see an apparition of a similar-looking woman.
4 Hever Castle
Speaking of notable famous royals, Anne Boleyn is said to roam Hever Castle in Kent, as it was once her home. Boleyn's grandfather first purchased the castle back in 1460, and it was the childhood home that Anne herself grew up in. Another notable event that happened there was the moment when Henry VIII first met Anne Boleyn for the first time, a moment that defined both of their lives and gave birth to Elizabeth I.
3 Muncaster Castle
Supposedly, Muncaster Castle is the most haunted castle in all of England, and it has plenty of former visitors who would likely attest to that rumor. The castle dates back to 1208, and among its historic artifacts are Roman remains - an unlikely thing to find in a British castle such as this one. However, many people claim that it's the 'trickster' who haunts the castle now; a castle jester named Tom the Fool who lived there during the 16th century.
2 Dover Castle
Dover Castle has seen its fair share of eerie events, and its central location in Kent has brought in plenty of visitors who will claim it so, as well. Some claim to have heard drumming from the battlements in the castle while others attest to seeing strange things in the tunnels that run underneath the castle. Dover Castle has also seen a fair number of wartime crimes and deaths, which likely accounts for many of the things that visitors claim to have heard and seen there.
1 Dudley Castle
In the West Midlands, Dudley Castle - and its 1000+ year history - can be found. This castle is not only rumored for its history but also for its supposed hauntings, which are said to be some of the most extreme in the world. Of them, one is a drummer boy who lost his life during the English Civil War, and many will claim that it's bad luck to hear or see him. Additionally, the spirit of Dorothy Beaumont is said to wander the halls of Dudley Castle, unable to move on due to promises that were not fulfilled before her death.