Europe’s Most Terrifying Haunted Hotels

A big part of Europe’s allure is its historic architecture that continues to stand the test of time. Ancient castles, fortresses and palaces are truly the stuff of fairytales, but sometimes, those tales don’t have happy endings.

In fact, several of Europe’s historic hotels have horror stories sprinkled into their very foundation.

So, as you fall asleep in a castle, you may expect to hear a few bumps in the night — and not just because they’re old and creaky — but because these notoriously haunted properties have some unwelcome guests that simply refuse to leave.

The 31-room Mermaid Inn has been welcoming guests since 1420. Located in East Sussex in the town of Rye, the inn’s cellars go back even further — to 1156.

Here, you will find a Tudor exterior, creaking floorboards, sloping ceilings and secret passageways that were used by smugglers in the 1700s.

As you might expect, lots can happen in an inn and pub over the course of 600 years. People can get married. Celebrate a birthday. Make new friends. Die.

Guests and workers of the Rye, England, inn have reported numerous haunts. From seeing a self-rocking rocking chair to a ghost that walks through walls to a well-clothed gentleman sitting at the end of beds, the stories are rampant. 

Book it (if you dare): Mermaid Inn

Overlooking St. Stephan’s Green in Dublin, the iconic Shelbourne is an aristocratic hotel that has welcomed royalty, celebrities and politicians.

In fact, the Irish Constitution was drafted in Room 112 in 1922. The five-star property features 265 bedrooms and remains the talk of the town in more ways than one.

Just because you’re a luxury hotel in the heart of cosmopolitan Dublin doesn’t mean you cannot experience a haunting.

The property’s most famous ghost is Mary Masters, a little girl said to have died of cholera at the hotel in 1846. Guests have reported hearing her cry and feeling her climb into bed with them at night.

Book it (if you dare): The Shelbourne