Spooky History Walks in Kent – Haunted Trails & Ghostly Tales
Step into the shadows with our guide to spooky history walks in Kent, perfect for Halloween, October half term, and fans of ghost stories and haunted places. Explore eerie trails, uncover Kent’s haunted heritage, and enjoy family-friendly Halloween activities that blend local history with seasonal chills. Whether you are seeking haunted castles, ghost walks, or spooky days out, Kent’s countryside is full of mysterious tales waiting to be discovered. Some are part of official Explore Kent routes, while others are easy to reach on foot or by public transport. Whether you believe in ghosts or just enjoy a good story, these places offer a unique way to explore Kent’s spooky side.
Pluckley – Britain’s Most Haunted Village
Pluckley, near Ashford, is known as the most haunted village in Britain. The area is linked to over a dozen ghost stories, including the Red Lady and White Lady who are said to haunt St Nicholas’ Church. A highwayman was reportedly killed at Fright Corner, and his ghost is still seen there.
The nearby Screaming Woods are known for eerie cries and shadowy figures. The Black Horse Inn and The Dering Arms are both said to be haunted, with reports of objects moving and ghostly apparitions. You can explore these locations on foot using the circular Pluckley Walk, which starts at the train station and follows Greensand Way and Stour Valley Walk.
Reculver Towers – Roman Fort & Monastic Ruins
Reculver Towers near Herne Bay are the remains of a Roman fort called Regulbium, which once guarded the Wantsum Channel. A Saxon monastery was founded on the site in 669 AD, and the twin towers of the medieval church were added in the 12th century. Today, the towers serve as a striking coastal landmark.
The site is linked to eerie tales of infant sacrifice and ghostly sightings near the ruins. Visitors have reported hearing crying babies and seeing hooded figures, especially during stormy weather.
The Minnis Bay to Reculver Trail is a stile-free coastal walk along the Viking Coastal Trail. It offers sea views, birdwatching, and access to the Reculver Visitor Centre.
Blue Bell Hill – Ancient Tombs & Ghostly Bride
Blue Bell Hill, near Chatham, is famous for the ghost of a bride who died in a car crash the night before her wedding. Drivers have reported picking up a hitchhiker who later disappears from their car without a trace. The area is also linked to other ghost sightings and strange events. It can be explored via local footpaths and roadside walks, especially near the Lower Bell pub where many of the sightings occur.
Our North Downs Way Cuxton to Detling walking route offers stunning views of the Kent Downs National Landscapes and passes through chalk grasslands, ancient woodland, and historic villages making it ideal for those seeking both natural beauty and eerie folklore.
Fort Amherst – Haunted Military Tunnels
Fort Amherst in Chatham was built in 1756 and later used during both World Wars. It is now open to the public and known for its haunted tunnels. Visitors have reported seeing dark shadows, hearing whispers, and feeling sudden cold spots. Some have heard children crying or a woman screaming underground. There are stories of a ghostly Napoleonic soldier and even tiny handprints appearing on people’s backs. Fort Amherst runs evening ghost tours that explore the tunnels and upper fort, and there is free parking on site.
Hever Castle – Anne Boleyn’s Ghostly Home
Hever Castle is in Kent and was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Her ghost is said to walk the gardens and corridors, especially near the Long Gallery. Visitors have reported seeing a woman in white and feeling sudden cold spots. Other spooky stories include a Grey Lady who fell from a window and a drummer boy whose ghost is heard at night. The castle is open to the public and easy to reach by foot from Hever Station or via local walking paths.
Dover Castle – Ghosts of War and Royalty
Dover Castle has a long and dramatic history, and many believe it is haunted. Visitors have reported seeing a headless drummer boy, a lady in red, and ghostly soldiers from World War II. Strange sounds and cold spots are common, especially in the underground tunnels.
The castle is part of several walking routes and is easy to reach from the town centre. Its mix of military history and ghost stories makes it one of Kent’s most atmospheric landmarks.
Planning more spooky fun this autumn?
- Visit our Halloween events guide
- Discover pumpkin picking spots
- Find family-friendly walking routes
- Check out seasonal outdoor events