Where to Find the Best Ghost Tours in London

Jack the Ripper fans are sure to enjoy an historical ghost tour of London, and if you’re inclined to learn the tales and stories about London’s dark past, you’ll want to schedule a haunted tour on your next visit. London has long served as inspiration for hundreds of authors, a prime spot for haunted stories and dramatic recreations of fables. Still, many locals are sure that ghosts still roam the city streets. Here are some of the best haunted tours to guide you:

Original London Walks is one of the most established companies in the city, and you’ll find a variety of key spots to choose from. The best walks and packages include a trip to Westminster where you’ll be introduced to the world of Parliament and learn about the rich history of this government and royal outpost. The Dickens walk offers the best of the literary classics, and you can learn about the beginnings of Oliver Twist and scenes from Dickens’ novels. Still, the walking tour of Hidden London is one of the best; you’ll get to learn about Jack the Ripper as you walk through the hidden alleys and courtyards in the city. A Harry Potter tour is also available through the taxi program. Just call 020 7794 1764 for more information.

The best Shakespeare tour is conducted by Mystery Walks, a place to explore all of Shakespeare’s city mentions and learn about his favorite hangouts. The company also offers a low-cost Jack the Ripper Walk on Sundays and Wednesdays; the spine-chilling experience is sure to leave you with a new perspective about the city. Call 020 8526 7755 for more information.

Be prepared for a very real ghost experience with the Original London Ghost Walk. The eerie walk is two hours long, and you’ll be creeping through the alleyways and old buildings to learn about centuries-old tales and stories. Abandoned graveyards, mysterious cathedrals, and sinister-looking street corners make this one of London’s spookiest experiences. This one’s not for the kids, or the faint of heart! The Jack the Ripper Tour is ideal for a group visit, taking you through all the murders in gory detail. Call 020 8530 8443 to make a reservation.

If you can stomach some of the most gruesome stories, take the Blood and Tears Walksome real shockers. Declan McHugh, a former professional actor, is the leader of these popular London walks, taking you through tales of witchcraft, grave-robbers, and serial killers. This one is perfect for a summer night exploration of London, and you’ll pick up plenty of historical insights on the way. It begins at one of London’s underground stations, and the latest booking is at 7 p.m. Call 020 7625 5155 for more information.

Discovery Walks is a great spot to review various tours available for Halloween, along with literary classics. The Old City Ghost Walk is one of the best, taking you through 16th century dungeons and church towers with a full account of London’s rich history. You’ll be walking through graveyards and alleyways for some insightful stories and tales of olde. Call 020 8530 8443 to make a reservation.

From Jack the Ripper to Shakespeare, you’ll find plenty of historical ghost tours and walks to take in on your visit to London. Bear in mind that many are designed for the ultimate scare factor; children under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult. Be prepared for a few nightmares shortly after your experience!