Seven Spooky Properties You Can Stay In
Halloween seems to revive everyone’s love of fancy dress and pumpkins. But if you’re a property-lover, finding somewhere different and a little bit spooky to stay can be more exciting than witch’s hats and black cats.
This autumn, head to one of these Airbnb rentals for a truly terrific (and potentially terrifying) stay.
Victorian Hospital Conversion, London – £125 per night
Bethnal Green’s now obsolete infirmary is just a walk away from bustling Shoreditch, but the Victorian building is not so much a hipster’s paradise. It was built in 1906 for the chronically ill, but was used to treat wounded soldiers during the First World War.
In the 1980s, the three-storey hospital closed. It was subsequently converted into flats, including the two-bedroom apartment being rented out through Airbnb.
Despite its stylish interior, the building still retains elements of old-fashioned terror, including towering 13-foot ceilings and old brick walls.
But fear not, the flat is a cosy retreat of barn doors and Chesterfield sofas, perfect for nights in watching horror films.
19th century castle, Kirkby, Stephen – £131 per night
If you’re planning a winter retreat, this 19th century castle is perfect for large parties of 30. With its four-poster beds, roll top baths and grand fireplaces, guests can enjoy an otherworldly atmosphere.
The home has 15 large bedrooms, several seating areas and a small cinema room.
Hidden away in the beautiful Eden Valley, the rural castle was built in 1841 as a gentleman’s folly. Surrounded by 15 acres of land and just an hour’s drive from the heart of the Lake District, this property is perfect for getting lost in.
600-year-old chamber, York – £145 per night
If Victoriana isn’t old enough for you, this North Yorkshire chamber is over 600 years old. Despite being cosy and charming, it is believed that the property is haunted.
And just a short walk away from York’s famous landmarks, your stay will be surrounded in history.
The property has been maintained, with original wood panelling, taxidermy on the walls and a view of the minster. But don’t worry, a modern kitchen means you won’t have to live off leek pottage.
Irish castle, Galway – £98 per night
If you are a guest at this castle, you can stay in the grand master bedroom – the highest room in the turret.
The quirky property is over 600 years old, catering for kings and queens of the medieval era.
You and your two guests can curl up beside a large fireplace and enjoy the rustic stone structure of the Irish castle. The original features are worthy of a family in Game of Thrones, with winding staircases, heavy oak doors and battlements with views across the land.
Ayton Castle, Berwickshire – £71 per night
Ayton Castle’s gatehouse is available to rent to guests, making a romantic getaway for couples. The stone staircase leads to the master bedroom above the property’s arch.
At the entrance to the estate, the lodgings are just a short walk from the town of Ayton with its pub and shop.
Guests can enjoy the castle’s grounds and a walk down by the river – the Eye Water is down a steep bank, so be careful.
Manor house attic, Whitby – £80 per night
Sir Adam Boulby built this grand manor in 1740. The servant’s quarters have now been opened up to holidaymakers with a taste for history.
Located in Whitby, famous for being the place where Bram Stoker wrote Dracula, the house is just ten minutes from the abbey.
Inside, guests must walk up a narrow, winding wooden staircase to the attic bedroom, where renters will find a large double room with a parapet terrace looking out over Whitby.
Victorian villa, London – £58 per night
Laden in history, London is the perfect escape at this time of year. This Victorian villa is found in the heart of Crouch End, a short drive from Alexandra Palace.
The charming apartment was built in 1889 and can accommodate up to three guests. Families can enjoy the home’s fast wifi and pretend that they’re not feeling any chills or hearing any creaks.