How to Spend a Night in a Haunted Location (Legally and Safely)
If you’ve ever dreamed of spending the night in a haunted castle, an eerie inn, or a creaking Victorian manor, you’re not alone. For thrill-seekers, ghost hunters, and lovers of all things paranormal, nothing beats the spine-tingling experience of sleeping where spirits might still roam.
But before you throw yourself into the nearest dungeon with a sleeping bag, there are a few important things to consider. From legal permissions to safety essentials and top UK haunted spots that actually allow overnight stays, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s how to spend a night in a haunted location—legally and safely.
1. Choose a Location That Welcomes Overnight Guests
Let’s be clear: not every haunted place is open to the public, and trespassing is a criminal offence. To avoid hefty fines (or worse), choose sites that allow and encourage ghostly stays.
Here are a few UK haunted locations you can actually sleep in:
- 🏰 Chillingham Castle, Northumberland – Often called the most haunted castle in England. View on Google Maps | Book a stay
- 🛏️ The Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire – Infamous for demonic hauntings and ghost hunts. View on Google Maps | Official site
- 👻 The Skirrid Inn, Wales – One of the oldest and most haunted pubs in the UK. View on Google Maps | Book on Booking.com
Many of these sites host paranormal events, overnight ghost hunts, and even let you bring your own ghost-hunting equipment.
2. Make Sure It’s 100% Legal
As tempting as it might be to sneak into an abandoned asylum, the reality is clear: you need permission. Here’s what to check:
- ✅ Private Property? Get written permission from the owner.
- ✅ Public Property After Hours? Contact the local authority or landowner. Most public parks and buildings close at night.
- ✅ Is the Site Protected? Some locations are listed buildings or scheduled monuments—extra laws apply.
Breaking and entering = criminal offence. Ghost hunting is fun. Jail is not.
3. Bring the Right Gear
Whether you’re joining a hosted ghost hunt or going solo (with permission), here’s what you’ll want to bring:
Essentials
- 🔦 Torch & spare batteries
- 🧥 Warm clothing
- 🧴 Hand sanitiser & wet wipes (old places can get gross)
- 🛏️ Sleeping bag or blanket
Paranormal Equipment (Optional but Fun)
- 📹 Night vision camera – Recommended on Amazon UK
- 🎤 Digital voice recorder (for EVP sessions) – Buy on Amazon UK
- 🌡️ EMF meter – Affordable one here
- 📋 Notebook for documenting experiences
If you’re joining an organised investigation, they may provide gear—but always check first.
4. Know the Risks (And Prep Accordingly)
Even legal locations can pose safety concerns. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- 🚷 Don’t go alone – Always go with at least one other person.
- 📶 Check phone signal – Some locations are black spots. Warn someone where you’ll be.
- 🧱 Old buildings = hazards – Watch for weak floors, loose stones, and low ceilings.
- 🔒 Check fire exits – Know your way out, especially if you’re staying overnight.
And yes, you should also prepare emotionally. Things might get spooky. Panic can make small problems worse.
5. Respect the Spirits (And the Space)
Whether you’re a full-on believer or a curious sceptic, treat the location and its legends with respect.
- 🚯 Don’t litter or damage property
- 🙏 Avoid taunting spirits—it can backfire
- 🔇 Keep noise down out of respect for other guests and the dead (👀)
If you’re taking part in a ghost hunt, follow the guide’s instructions. They’re trained not only in the supernatural, but also in basic safety.
Top Overnight Ghost Hunts in the UK
If you’re looking for an organised, safe, and thrilling overnight ghost experience, here are a few events to check out:
- Haunted Happenings – Website
Offers overnight ghost hunts at castles, prisons, and inns across the UK. - Dusk Till Dawn Events – Website
Offers small group paranormal investigations in seriously haunted locations. - Fright Nights Ghost Hunts – Website
The UK’s longest running ghost hunting company.
Events usually include vigils, Ouija boards (optional!), table tipping, and even psychic mediums.
Have you ever braved a night in a haunted location?
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