Glamis Castle, known as the childhood home of the Queen Mother, has been labelled as one of the spookiest places to visit in the UK this Halloween. Situated in Angus, Scotland, Glamis Castle boasts a rich history dating back over a millennium, including being the site where Malcolm II of Scotland met a gruesome end in 1034. Even before its construction, the land was believed to be cursed, with workers hearing warnings against building on the original chosen spot.
Legends of ghosts haunting the castle abound, with stories of eerie apparitions like the Tongueless Woman and the Grey Lady circulating among visitors. It is said that nine ghosts, including Thomas Bowes-Lyon, still roam the castle’s halls. Despite its ghostly reputation, the Queen Mother cherished her childhood home, and even after her move to London and marriage to George VI, she regularly returned to Glamis Castle until her passing in 2002.
Today, the castle is under the care of Simon Bowes-Lyon, the 19th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and is open to the public. Visitors can experience the castle’s spooky ambiance and some have even reported supernatural encounters, adding to its reputation as one of the most haunted castles in the UK. TripAdvisor reviews frequently mention Glamis Castle’s eerie allure, with one visitor recounting an unsettling encounter of being touched by an unseen presence during a tour.
Even renowned author Sir Walter Scott noted the castle’s chilling atmosphere during his stay in 1780. For those feeling brave, guided tours called the Ghosts of Glamis are available in October, catering to both adults and children. The Independent has reached out to Glamis Castle for further insight into its haunted history.
As Halloween approaches, Glamis Castle stands out as a top destination for those seeking a truly spine-tingling experience in the UK.