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Family fun

08th Oct 2021

10 spooky things to experience in Ireland this Halloween

Sarah McKenna Barry

It’s officially spooky season.

Halloween is right around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to embrace some of Ireland’s spookiest delights.

From thrilling interactive experiences to ghostly haunts, there’s certainly no shortage of outings to try this October. So, if for some reason, the past year and a half haven’t been scary enough for you, then why not check out the following must-dos this Halloween?

1. The Nightmare Realm, Dublin

Experience a real-life nightmare at the RDS Simmonscourt as the Nightmare Realm returns for yet another year. This audience participation event invites horror fanatics to walk through highly curated mazes, designed to scare the absolute bejaysus out of you.

2. After Dark at Tayto Park, Co. Meath

Experience the thrill of Ireland’s most beloved potato-themed amusement park in all its Halloween glory, as night rides run on the Cú Chulainn Coaster, Flight School, Endeavour, Windstar, Power Surge, Air Race, and the Rotator.

3. Ghostbus Tour, Dublin

This terrifying tour takes passengers on a ghostly tour around Dublin inviting them to delve into the more gruesome elements of our capital city’s history, stopping off at a medieval vault at Dublin Castle and a hidden inner-city graveyard.

4. The Abbey of the Black Hag, Co. Limerick

If you’re out County Limerick out, why not visit this abbey in Shanagolden which dates back to the 13th century. It’s said to be haunted by many spirits, including the ghost of the Countess of Desmond.

5. Farmaphobia, Co. Meath

Visitors to Farmaphobia are in for an absolute fright, with four interactive haunts spread out across 100 acres on Causey Farm in Meath. This one is definitely not for the faint-hearted.

6. Belvelly Castle, Co. Cork

This 15th century tower is, apparently, haunted by the ghost of its former resident, Lady Margaret Hodnett. As well as being distinctly eerie, Belvelly Castle offers a long and fascinating past, appealing to ghost-hunters and history buffs alike.

7. The Hellfire Club, Co. Dublin

As well as boasting stunning views of Dublin Bay, the Hellfire Club has a notorious history stretching back to its foundation in 1735. Legend has it that a large black cat haunts the grounds, while the devil is said to have swung by.

8. Kilkenny Ghost Tours

Explore the paranormal delights of the medieval town of Kilkenny in this walking tour. Fair warning, you may come across the Banshee who haunts the castle.

9. Lemenagh Castle, Co Clare

Lemenagh Castle, which is located in the Burren is visible from the road, but it’s not actually accessible. However, given its frightening history, that might be a good thing as this ruin is thought to be haunted by the ghost of Red Mary.

10. Wicklow’s Historic Gaol

Visitors to Wicklow Gaol are shown around the historic site by the “gruff Gaoler” on this tour which allows you to picture a day in the life at a Victorian prison. If you can’t make the trip out, the Gaol also offers a fully immersive virtual reality tour which you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home.