Ilfracombe in Devon, England offers more than just stunning coastlines and charming streets. It’s a place where history, local legends, and a love of all things spooky come together in unique tours that add a memorable layer to your visit. Whether you’re into ghost stories, haunted houses, or thrilling scare events, Ilfracombe has something to satisfy your curiosity and thrill-seeking side. We especially enjoy the Halloween scare event at Watermouth Castle, which combines themed scare zones and live actors for a truly adrenaline-pumping experience.
If your idea of fun involves spooky stories and local legends, you’ll love the Ghost Walk, Tavern Meal & Fireside Tales. Or for serious paranormal enthusiasts, the Haunted Heritage Paranormal Night Event offers an in-depth ghost hunt of a Victorian mansion. Whatever your preference, these tours give you a taste of Ilfracombe’s mysterious side.
1. Ilfracombe: Halloween Scare Event Entry Ticket
At number one, the Ilfracombe Halloween scare event at Watermouth Castle is a 1-hour adrenaline shot for those who love to be scared. For around $41, you explore haunted zones like Bad Barnyard and The Z Factor, where live actors in full costume lurk behind every corner. The event is set after dark, making the eerie atmosphere even more intense. This scare experience is designed to thrill and chill, with moments that will make your heart race and others that will make you laugh out loud.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of thrills, chills, and humor. It’s perfect if you want a quick but memorable scare experience. The two new zones, Bad Barnyard and The Z Factor, add a fresh twist, keeping returning visitors excited. The reviews are positive, with many noting how “the fake blood and costumes were genuinely terrifying” and praising the event for being “well-organized and fun.” It’s best suited for those comfortable with scares and looking for a fun night out.
Bottom line: It’s an adrenaline-packed, cost-effective way to experience Halloween in Ilfracombe and a great choice for horror fans.
2. Ilfracombe: Ghost Walk, Local Tavern Meal & Fireside Tales
Taking the second spot is the Ghost Walk, Tavern Meal, and Fireside Tales. This 4-hour evening tour combines a walk through haunted streets, a hearty meal in a cozy local tavern, and captivating stories about local legends and spirits. The ghost walk weaves through Ilfracombe’s most haunted locations, sharing tales of spectral sightings and supernatural happenings that have long haunted the town.
What makes this experience special is the blend of historical storytelling with a tasty pub dinner in a spooky setting. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to mix gentle ghost stories with authentic local flavor. The stories are told by a storyteller who knows how to set the mood, making it a memorable, immersive experience. Many reviewers mention how “the stories felt authentic and spine-chilling,” and the meal in a traditional tavern adds a comforting touch after walking through the haunted streets.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you enjoy storytelling, local lore, and a relaxed evening with good food and ghostly tales.
3. The Devonian’s Haunted Heritage Paranormal Night Event
For the dedicated ghost hunters, the Haunted Heritage Paranormal Night Event offers a deep dive into Ilfracombe’s supernatural world. Over 5 hours, you’ll explore the Devonian Guest House, a Victorian mansion reputed to be haunted by spirits. The event includes snacks like biscuits and tea, along with expert guidance on paranormal investigation techniques, making it perfect for those serious about ghost hunting.
What distinguishes this experience is the chance to explore the entire historic house with free roaming investigations, either on your own or with your team. The guide shares insights into the building’s history and paranormal phenomena, adding context to every unexplained sound or shadow. Many participants appreciate the chance to learn ghost-hunting techniques, with some describing it as “a night of genuinely eerie experiences.” It’s best suited for brave travelers with some curiosity about the paranormal and a willingness to participate actively.
Bottom line: This tour appeals most to ghost enthusiasts eager for a hands-on experience and a chance to investigate spirits in a historic setting.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interest level and how much time you want to spend. The Halloween scare event is quick and exciting, perfect for a fun evening. The Ghost Walk and Tavern offers a relaxed, cultural experience with good food and spooky stories, suitable for a wide range of visitors. The Haunted Heritage paranormal night is a longer, more immersive activity for those who want to actively hunt spirits and learn paranormal techniques.
Budget-wise, the scare event provides great value for a brief thrill, while the ghost walk offers a more cultural experience at a slightly higher price. If you’re serious about ghost hunting, the paranormal night is worth the extra time and cost. Booking early is recommended for all these tours, especially during peak Halloween season.
The Sum Up
Ilfracombe offers a surprising variety of spooky and paranormal experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. Those looking for a quick adrenaline rush will enjoy the Halloween scare event, while history and storytelling fans can savor the Ghost Walk and Fireside Tales. For the serious ghost hunters, the Haunted Heritage Paranormal Night provides a rare, hands-on investigation.
No matter which experience you choose, each offers a unique way to connect with Ilfracombe’s mysterious side. We recommend booking early, especially during October, to secure your spot. Whether you want laughs, chills, or a bit of both, these tours add a memorable, ghostly touch to your trip.