Haunted Scarborough: Ghost Tours, Stories & Spooky Places

Why is Scarborough Haunted?

Scarborough, the jewel of the North Yorkshire coast, is known for its sandy beaches, seaside charm, and rich history. But beyond the arcades and fish-and-chip shops lies another side to this town: haunted Scarborough. With ghost stories whispered for generations, eerie old buildings, and some of the most haunted places in Yorkshire, Scarborough has a reputation that draws paranormal enthusiasts from across the country.

Before diving into the ghost tours and haunted houses of Scarborough, it’s worth asking: why does this seaside town have such a spooky reputation?

• Ancient roots: Settlements here date back to the Bronze Age. Centuries of battles, invasions, and upheaval have left lingering energy that some believe fuels paranormal activity.

• Scarborough Castle: With more than 3,000 years of history, the castle has witnessed sieges, executions, and imprisonment. It’s now regarded as one of the most haunted castles in Yorkshire.

• Maritime disasters: As a port town, Scarborough has seen shipwrecks and drownings for centuries. The spirits of lost sailors are said to wander its coastline.

• Old buildings and hidden tunnels: Scarborough’s medieval streets hide secret passages, cellars, and forgotten corners – perfect settings for chilling ghost stories.

If you’re fascinated by ghostly tales, keen on history, or simply looking for a unique experience, Scarborough’s haunted past is waiting for you!

Ghost Tours: Let the Locals Lead the Way 

One of the best ways to uncover Scarborough’s ghostly past is on a guided ghost tour. Led by passionate locals, these tours take you through the town’s streets, sharing chilling tales of spirits, tragic events, and unexplained phenomena.

What to Expect on a Ghost Tour:

• Expert storytelling: Guides bring Scarborough’s haunted history to life with a mix of facts, legends, and local tales.
• Haunted walks: Explore dark alleyways, historic streets, and sometimes even graveyards.
• Interactive fun: Some tours use tools like dowsing rods or EMF meters for added thrills.
• Theatrical flair: Many guides dress in costume and use dramatic delivery to enhance the experience.

Finding the Right Tour for You:

Several companies offer ghost tours in Scarborough, particularly during the autumn and Halloween season. A quick online search for "Scarborough ghost tours" will reveal available options. When choosing a tour, consider the following: 

• Reviews: Check ratings for consistent feedback.
• Length & route: Decide whether you want a short walk or a full exploration.
• Price & extras: Some include entrance fees or paranormal equipment.
• Guide’s expertise: Look for knowledgeable locals with a passion for Scarborough’s spooky past.
  

Haunted Places in Scarborough You Can Visit

Even if you skip the guided tours, haunted Scarborough can be explored on your own. Here are the must-visit sites for ghost hunters and thrill seekers:

Scarborough Castle: A Fortress of Ghosts

As mentioned earlier, Scarborough Castle is arguably the most haunted location in the town. Its long and turbulent history has left an indelible mark on the site, and many visitors have reported experiencing paranormal activity within its walls. 

• The Grey Lady: One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the castle is that of the Grey Lady. She is said to be the spirit of a woman who was imprisoned in the castle and died of starvation. Her mournful figure has been seen wandering the ramparts, searching for her lost love. 

• The Drummer Boy: Another ghostly resident of the castle is the Drummer Boy, a young soldier who was killed during a siege. His ghostly drumming can sometimes be heard echoing through the castle grounds.

• Unexplained Phenomena: Visitors have also reported experiencing unexplained phenomena such as sudden drops in temperature, disembodied voices, and objects moving on their own. 

The Old Town Hall: Echoes of the Past

This historic building, located in the heart of Scarborough's old town, is rumoured to be home to several spirits. 

• The Former Mayor: One of the most prominent ghosts is said to be a former mayor who is still keeping a watchful eye on the town. His presence has been felt in the council chambers and other areas of the building. 

• Other Spectral Residents: Other ghostly residents of the Old Town Hall include former prisoners, court officials, and members of the town council. 
  

St Mary's Church: A Sanctuary of Souls and Whispers

St Mary’s Church, perched on the cliffs above South Bay, is one of Scarborough’s oldest and most historic landmarks. Founded in the 12th century, it has weathered sieges, storms, and centuries of change. Its ancient walls and gravestones whisper stories of the past, and many believe the spirits of those buried here still linger.

• Anne Brontë's Final Resting Place: St Mary’s Church is also the final resting place of Anne Brontë, the youngest of the famous Brontë sisters. She died in Scarborough in 1849 and was buried in the churchyard. Many visitors pay their respects at her grave, with some claiming to sense her presence nearby.

• The Sound of Footsteps: By day, the church is a popular attraction, but at night it transforms. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps inside when no one else is there.

• The Whispering Gravestones: The churchyard is lined with weathered gravestones, and some visitors claim to hear whispers among them, as if spirits are trying to speak.
  

Three Mariners Pub

This centuries-old pub offers warmth, ale, and hearty fare – but also a hint of the supernatural. 

• The Smuggler's Secret: Legend has it that the Three Mariners was once a haven for smugglers, who used its cellars and hidden passages to store their illicit goods. Some believe that the ghosts of these smugglers still linger in the pub, guarding their hidden treasures. 

• Sudden Chills and Unexplained Noises: Staff and patrons at the Three Mariners have often described eerie events, from sudden temperature drops to unexplained noises and objects shifting on their own.

• The Shadowy Figure: One of the most reported sightings is a shadowy figure lingering in the older corners of the pub, believed by some to be the ghost of a former landlord or a long-lost sailor.
  

A Spooky Stay with Stay  Yorkshire Coast: Your Base for Ghostly Exploration 

After a night of ghost hunting, you’ll need a cosy retreat. Our Scarborough holiday homes offer:

• Comfort & convenience – everything you need to recharge.
• Great locations – close to haunted sites and ghost tours.
• Local know-how – insider tips on the best spooky spots. We can’t promise ghosts , but we can promise a warm and memorable stay. 



Disclaimer: No paranormal activity guaranteed — only comfort, charm, and a few goosebumps along the way!