👻 A Halloween Tour of Chills and Thrills
Halloween is creeping closer, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring the eerie legends and ghostly goings-on of Mid & East Antrim? From castles with restless spirits to forests that whisper your name, this corner of Northern Ireland is brimming with tales that will make your hair stand on end (in the best possible way). Grab your torch, keep your wits about you, and let’s wander into the shadows together…
If it's spooky or autumnal events you're after - look no further! Jump straight to our Halloween highlights here!
🔥 Dundermot Mound – The Gateway to the Underworld
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Photo credit: Barry Thompson (Facebook: @bazthedj)
In Glarryford lies Dundermot Mound, whispered to be one of Ireland’s two gateways to hell. Legend says that when it opens, it swallows everything nearby—people, horses, even mail coaches. In fact, back in 1798, coachman Thomas Meharg vanished here during a storm, along with his carriage and cargo. Some say his ghost still lingers, asking travellers if the Glarryford Bridge is down. Answer him, and you might not live to see another Halloween…
(Or, if you prefer a less terrifying explanation, maybe it’s just an old fort with a reputation that got a little… overcooked.)
🏰 Carrickfergus Castle – Meet Buttoncap
Castles are practically designed to be haunted, and Carrickfergus Castle doesn’t disappoint. Its most famous ghost is Buttoncap, a soldier who seems to enjoy hanging around the old well that now bears his name. Staff and visitors alike have spotted him wandering the grounds. If you’re lucky—or unlucky—you might just bump into him on your next visit.
🍺 Dobbins Inn – Elizabeth’s Restless Spirit
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Carrickfergus is also home to the 500-year-old Dobbins Inn, where the ghost of Elizabeth still roams. Her tragic tale involves a forbidden romance, a secret tunnel, and a jealous husband with a sword. Guests have reported waking to find Elizabeth standing over them, gently stroking their faces. Room 21 is said to be her favourite haunt—fitting, since she was just 21 when her life was cut short.
💰 Galgorm Castle – The Devil’s Deal of Doctor Colville
Built in 1618, Galgorm Castle has its fair share of stories, but none more chilling than that of Doctor Colville. Rumour has it he sold his soul to the devil in exchange for wealth, tricking demons with a boot that could never be filled with gold. His cunning didn’t save him, though—his spirit is said to wander the castle forever, cursed to serve out his deal. And beware: removing his portrait is said to bring doom upon you…
👶 Ballygally Castle Hotel – Lady Isabella’s Search
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This seaside castle-turned-hotel is as beautiful as it is haunted. Lady Isabella Shaw, locked in a turret by her husband after giving birth, tragically fell to her death while trying to escape. Guests claim to hear her knocking on doors at night, searching for her baby. Another ghost, Madame Nixon, is said to sweep through the halls, her skirts rustling in the dark. A stay here comes with more than just sea views—it comes with company.
🌲 Ballyboley Forest – Whispers in the Woods
Just outside Larne lies Ballyboley Forest, a place where the trees themselves seem to breathe. Visitors report phantom lights, disembodied whispers, and the unsettling feeling of being watched. With its history of ancient rituals and ghostly sightings, it’s no wonder this forest has earned its reputation as one of the most haunted spots in the region. Enter if you dare—but don’t be surprised if you leave with more questions than answers.
Halloween events in Mid & East Antrim
From ghostly gatherings to pumpkin-packed parties, this season is bursting with spine-tingling fun for all ages 🎃👻. Here’s a roundup of the best Halloween events to sink your fangs into and keep the spooky spirit alive all October long!
Hallowena at The Peoples' Park
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Step into the shadows of People’s Park for one of the spookiest nights of the year!
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30th October
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Ticket only access from 18:00 - 20:30
The free event will thrill and chill with a packed programme of spooktacular activities for all your little monsters to enjoy!
With a fire juggling display, a fancy dress competition, spooky walkabout characters, a kiddies funfair and live music – there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Follow the extended spooky illumination trail throughout the park and bump into some familiar characters along the way.
You can sink your fangs into some sweet treats or tasty hot food to beat those Halloween hunger pangs. The fun and festivities will finish with a fabulous fireworks finale at 8.15pm.
Wandering ghouls and spine tingling figures will be ready to spook you at every turn with a few hair-raising special additions!
Hallowen Hooley at Larne Town Park
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31st October
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18:30 - 20:30
It's time to dust off those broomsticks and put on your best costumes because Halloween Hooley is BACK in Larne Town Park and creepier than ever!
Meet some of your favourite Halloween characters as you make your way around the event, which is sure to have some tricks and treats along the way! A familiar Halloween personality will make an appearance with an interactive special effects show at the “Spooky House” in the park.
The self-guided walk through the park will also feature fire poi displays, a kid’s disco, arts and crafts, and messy play in the Witch’s Kitchen. The night finishes with a spectacular fireworks show if the weather plays ball.
The Halloween DJ will be hosting a monster mash on stage before the live band make their apparition.
A “quiet time” will run from 17:00 - 18:00
No tickets are required.
CarrickFEARgus at Shafetsbury Park
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29th October
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18:00 - 21:00
When the nights grow darker and the pumpkins start to glow, there’s only one question to ask: Who ya gonna call? This Halloween, the Ghostbusters are heading to CarrickFEARgus with an interactive show that brings their ghost-zapping world to life.
But that’s just the beginning. Roll up your sleeves for gooey slime making, and join Jump Jiggle and Jive for the high-energy UV Glow Party.
Fire performers will light up the night as you make your way through the park and encounter some of the most mischievous walkabout characters and frightfully fun friends. Don’t forget to bring your best dance moves to party alongside Wednesday Addams at her deadly disco.
Try your luck at carnival games and then jump right into the messy play stations full of splashes, squishes, and spooky surprises.
So gather your little ghouls, dress for the occasion, and step into a Halloween celebration you won’t want to miss
The Islandmagee Witches & Carrickfergus Tour (with Haunted Tours NI)
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Step into History and Mystery: Carrickfergus Castle & Islandmagee Witch Trail Walking Tour. Expect a lot of history, a dash of horror, and an attempt at humour... all set against the backdrop of one of Ireland's most atmospheric towns.
Perfect for history buffs, true crime fans, lovers of the supernatural, and those curious about the infamous Islandmagee Witch Trial - this is the only tour company that tells the real story of Ireland's last witches, inspired by the book 'Possessed by the Devil' by Dr. Andrew Sneddon
Uncover Northern Ireland's dark, dramatic, and sometimes downright bizarre past on this unforgettable 2.5-hour guided walking tour through the heart of historic Carrickfergus. With a broomstick-wielding, theatrically dressed guide (cape included!), this tour is part time-travel, part ghost story, and part history lesson - with just enough humour to keep your wits about you.
What's Included:
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Admission to Carrickfergus Castle - includes a captivating one-hour guided exploration through this mighty Norman stronghold.
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Stops at key historical sites, including: The eerie Old Gaol site; the exterior of the haunted Dobbins Inn and the chilling Pillory and Hanging Gate.
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A complimentary "Witches Brew" - your choice of tea or coffee with biscuits to keep your spirits up.
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Storytelling with a twist - led by a lively, qualified guide who blends drama, detail, and the occasional dark joke.
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Photo opportunities galore - perfect for your Instagram (or paranormal scrapbook).
Autumn at Arthur Cottage
This autumn, Arthur Cottage in Cullybackey is serving up a cosy harvest of heritage and hands-on fun, with weekends filled with everything from spinning and weaving to needle-felting, corn dolly making, and even apple pie baked over an open fire 🍎🔥
Visitors can step back in time as they watch traditional crafts come to life, try their hand at creating keepsakes, and soak up the warm, rustic charm of the ancestral home of President Chester Alan Arthur. With the scent of woodsmoke in the air, light refreshments on hand, and the chance to take home your own handmade piece of history, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season’s golden glow in true autumn style.
Click here to explore the full line of of autumnal events at Arthur Cottage.
Autumn at Andrew Jackson Cottage
This autumn, the Andrew Jackson Cottage in Carrickfergus is brimming with cosy creativity and a dash of Halloween mischief 🎃🍂. Across October, visitors can dive into seasonal workshops like crochet pumpkins, rustic decoupage, pebble art, and even birdhouse painting for the little ones.
As the month darkens, the cottage transforms into a hub of spooky fun with children’s Halloween crafts, painted pebble storytelling, and, for the brave, an evening of ghostly tales told by firelight. With crafts, folklore, and plenty of autumnal charm, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the season in true handmade-and-haunted style.
Discover all the events at Andrew Jackson Cottage here.
🎃 Ready for Your Own Spooky Adventure?
From haunted castles to whispering woods, Mid & East Antrim is the perfect place to embrace the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re chasing ghost stories or just looking for a seasonal thrill, these eerie encounters will leave you with goosebumps and great tales to tell.
So pack your courage, keep your eyes peeled, and remember: in Mid & East Antrim, you’re never truly alone…
