• Discover Dublin’s haunted history by exploring eerie landmarks like Kilmainham Gaol, Trinity College and The Brazen Head, where chilling ghost stories and mysterious legends come alive.
  

• Step into spooky cemeteries and ancient graveyards, including Glasnevin Cemetery and St. Michan’s Church (where visitors report ghost sightings, eerie whispers and supernatural encounters).
  

• Take part in ghost tours and haunted experiences for a goosebump-filled adventure, and immerse yourself in Dublin’s spine-tingling tales, haunted pubs and legendary castles that showcase the city’s supernatural side.

If you’re a fan of paranormal stories, dark history and supernatural legends, then Ireland is the perfect destination to give you goosebumps. From haunted castles in Ireland to the most haunted places in Dublin, this country is filled with spooky landmarks, ghost tours and creepy legends that have been passed down for generations. Whether you’re a true believer or just curious, these spooky places to visit in Ireland will add a thrilling twist to your trip.

Dublin might be known worldwide for its lively pubs, historic landmarks and rich cultural heritage, but behind the cheerful charm of Ireland’s capital lies a much darker past. Ghost stories, paranormal encounters and haunted places in Dublin are woven into the city’s history, making it a dream destination for anyone who loves spooky adventures.

If you are planning a trip and want to experience the most haunted places in Dublin, this guide will walk you through chilling landmarks, haunted tours and the city’s creepiest legends. Whether you believe in ghosts or just love a good story, these spooky sites will send shivers down your spine and give you a whole new perspective on Dublin.

Haunted Places in Dublin

Behind Dublin’s cosy streets and Georgian architecture lies a city steeped in tragedy, rebellion and centuries of mysterious events. Since ancient Celtic times, the city has witnessed wars, executions and untimely deaths, all of which have fuelled eerie legends. Over time, ghostly sightings have become part of local folklore, with many old buildings and narrow alleys becoming infamous for paranormal activity.

Today, visitors searching for spooky things to do in Dublin at Halloween often head straight to the city’s most haunted landmarks. From the echoing corridors of Kilmainham Gaol to the shadowy corners of Trinity College, Dublin’s haunted history is never far from the surface.

Dublin's Most Haunted Locations

If you’re in search of ghostly encounters, these are the most famous haunted places in Dublin that every paranormal fan should explore. Ireland’s folklore is rich with supernatural tales and many of them are tied to its capital:

Kilmainham Gaol

No list of Dublin ghost stories would be complete without Kilmainham Gaol. This former prison played a central role in Irish history, with many leaders of rebellions held and executed within its walls. Visitors regularly report cold spots, ghostly footsteps and even shadowy figures roaming the chapel and dungeons. Paranormal investigators have captured unexplained sounds and eerie lights, making Kilmainham Gaol one of the scariest haunted sites in Dublin. Many people believe it’s still haunted by those who died within its walls.

Trinity College and the Old Library

Trinity College is famous for housing the Book of Kells, but it also hides chilling secrets. Ghost sightings here range from a phantom librarian still patrolling the Old Library at Trinity College to the tragic spirit of Edward Ford, said to haunt the Rubrics building at dusk. Even excavations in the 1990s uncovered mysterious human remains, fuelling Dublin’s reputation as one of Europe’s most haunted cities. This centuries-old campus, known for producing some of the finest gothic writers like Bram Stoker and Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, holds many ghostly secrets.

The Brazen Head

Known as Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head has stood since the 12th century. Many patrons have reported glasses moving on their own, strange whispers and even the appearance of a man in period clothing. If you’re searching for a haunted pub in Dublin, this is the place to enjoy a pint with a ghostly twist.

These chilling tales are part of what makes exploring haunted places in Ireland such a unique adventure. 

Dublin's Haunted Cemeteries and Graveyards

Cemeteries are natural settings for paranormal activity and ghost stories, and Dublin is no exception.

Glasnevin Cemetery

Glasnevin Cemetery is both a fascinating historical site and a favourite for paranormal hunters. Visitors have claimed to see ghostly figures wandering among the graves, while whispers and footsteps add to the spine-tingling atmosphere.

St Michan’s Church

St Michan’s Church is another must-see, with its eerie crypts that hold the famous Mummies of St. Michan. Guests often report whispers, sudden chills and an overwhelming sense of being watched. It’s one of the most unique and creepy attractions in Dublin.

If you’re searching for spooky things to do in Dublin at Halloween, both sites are essential stops. Make sure you feel brave enough before going to this spooky spot!

Famous Ghost Stories and Irish Legends

Irish's haunted history wouldn’t be complete without some truly chilling ghost stories and legends. These tales have been passed down through generations, capturing the imaginations of locals and visitors alike. Ireland is a land of folklore and chilling legends, and Dublin has its fair share:

The Hellfire Club

The Hellfire Club, perched in the Dublin Mountains, was once a secret society linked to occult rituals. Visitors today still report shadowy figures and the unnerving sound of a black cat roaming its ruins. It's believed to be haunted by the spirits of its members who perished in a mysterious fire. The spooky structure of the Hellfire Club was found by Irish freemasons around 1735. Many scary stories are linked to the site, which is believed to be a place of animal sacrifice and satanic rituals.

Loftus Hall

This is believed to be haunted by the ghost of Anne Tottenham, forever traumatized by one day having the Devil himself as a guest in her house. Her still traumatized spirits can be spotted around the large hallways of the mansion. Unfortunately, since 2020 it is not possible to visit the house anymore, which was sold and has its future still uncertain.

Belvelly Castle

Legend has it that Lady Margaret, who lived in the house during her lifetime, after having her heart broken by a prospective husband, had a fit of rage and broke all the mirrors in the tower. Until this day her ghost can be heard breaking mirrors around the big old house. 

Coolbawn House

In Co. Wexford, this is now just an abandoned shell of the big mansion it once was (not safe to visit the insides of the structure), the Coolbawn House is considered one of the most haunted places in Ireland. From the outside, many visitors have claimed to see a girl standing at the window.

Ballygally Castle

The story tells that Lady Isabella Shaw, who lived in the house with her husband, Lord James, was locked by him in the highest tower, and had her baby taken away from her. Desperately sad, Lady Isabella jumped (or was pushed?) from the window, falling all the way to the ocean. To this day, guests of the hotels have reported weird knocks on their doors during the night and some have even said to hear Isabella screaming. Visitors can also take a look at the room where she was locked, but be prepared: it is very spooky. 

Headless Horseman

And of course, we can’t forget the legend of the Headless Horseman (The Dullahan). This ghostly figure is said to be the spirit of a soldier who lost his head in battle. He’s been seen roaming the roads and back alleys of Dublin, striking fear into the hearts of anyone unlucky enough to cross his path.

These chilling tales are part of what makes exploring haunted places in Ireland such a unique adventure.

The Best Ghost Tours in Dublin

If you’d rather not explore alone, there are plenty of ghost tours in Dublin designed to bring the city’s spooky stories to life. If you want to experience Dublin’s paranormal side first-hand, joining a ghost tour is the perfect way to do it.

The Gravedigger Ghost Tour takes you through haunted graveyards and shares chilling tales. The guides are full of creepy stories, from the ghosts of the 1916 Easter Rising to spirits seen wandering among the tombstones.

The Dublin Ghost Bus Tour offers a theatrical journey through the city’s haunted landmarks, complete with spooky effects and storytelling. With its theatrical approach and spooky special effects, this tour is perfect for those who want to really feel the fear!

Spoken earlier, Kilmainham Gaol Tour is essential for history lovers, combining Ireland’s turbulent past with real-life ghostly encounters. You’ll learn all about the tragic fates of the inmates who were imprisoned (and sometimes executed) there and you’ll get to explore the spooky prison grounds, including the famously haunted C Wing.

These tours are some of the best ghost tours in Dublin, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Dublin at night.

Haunted Pubs and Restaurants in Dublin

Dublin doesn’t just keep its ghosts locked away in gaols or crypts, some of its most popular social spots come with a spooky twist. If you fancy mixing a pint with a paranormal encounter, Dublin’s haunted pubs are a real treat.

The Stag’s Head is a pub with a tragic tale. It's said to be haunted by a young woman murdered by a jealous lover.

The Vaults is a historic restaurant located in Dublin’s old underground tunnels inside The Castle Hotel. It’s believed to be haunted by a woman known as the White Lady, whose ghost has been seen wandering the tunnels. Many diners have reported hearing footsteps or feeling like someone is watching them, even when they’re alone.

And, already spoke about The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub, has a resident ghost believed to be a former owner who was murdered. Patrons have reported strange events, like glasses moving on their own and hearing voices when no one’s around.

If you want a blend of Irish history, a pint of Guinness and a paranormal encounter, these haunted pubs and castles in Dublin are worth every visit.

Embrace the Spooky Side of Dublin

Exploring haunted places in Dublin is more than just chasing ghost stories. It’s about peeling back the layers of history, discovering hidden legends and experiencing the darker side of Ireland’s capital. From haunted gaols and graveyards to haunted tours and ghostly pubs, Dublin offers a mix of history, folklore and paranormal mystery that’s both creepy and fascinating. Dublin offers an unforgettable mix of history and the supernatural.

Whether you’re planning a Halloween trip to Dublin or just curious about its haunted past, these ghostly experiences will leave you with memories that are equal parts creepy and fascinating. Ready to uncover Dublin’s spookiest secrets? Pack your courage, join a haunted tour and keep your eyes open... You never know who (or what) you might meet along the way.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

• What are the most haunted places to visit in Dublin? Some of the most haunted spots include Kilmainham Gaol, Trinity College, The Brazen Head, Glasnevin Cemetery, St Michan’s Church and the Hellfire Club.

• Are Dublin’s ghost tours suitable for families? Yes, most Dublin ghost tours are family-friendly, but some night tours may be more intense. Always check the age recommendations before booking.

• Can you really see ghosts in Dublin? While sightings are never guaranteed, visitors often report eerie footsteps, sudden chills, strange whispers and shadowy figures in haunted Dublin landmarks.

• What is the best ghost tour in Dublin? Popular options include the Dublin Ghost Bus Tour, the Gravedigger Ghost Tour and Kilmainham Gaol Tours for a mix of history and paranormal encounters.

• Is Kilmainham Gaol really haunted? Yes, many visitors and paranormal investigators claim to have experienced unexplained sounds, ghostly apparitions and cold spots inside the prison.

• Are haunted pubs in Dublin worth visiting? Absolutely. Places like The Brazen Head and The Stag’s Head combine Irish pub culture with spine-tingling ghost stories, making them a must-visit.

• Can I visit St Michan’s Church crypts? Yes, the crypts of St Michan’s Church are open to visitors, where you can see the famous mummies and hear chilling ghost stories.

• When is the best time to explore Dublin’s haunted places? Halloween in Dublin is the most popular time, but ghost tours and haunted landmarks can be visited all year round.

• Are Dublin ghost tours expensive? Prices vary, but most tours cost between €20 and €35 per person, offering great value for a unique experience.

• Where should I stay in Dublin for a spooky adventure? Staying in a central Dublin hostel or hotel is ideal, giving you easy access to haunted landmarks, ghost tours and historic pubs.

And if you’re looking for accommodation to go with your ghost-hunting adventure, check out our special discount rates for stays in Dublin and across Ireland by booking directly with us here.