Northern Ireland's 'spookiest' walks to explore this Halloween
Halloween is just around the corner...
As the spooky season approaches, new research has revealed Northern Ireland’s most chilling walks to explore.
If you are looking for a fun way to kick off the scariest time of year, experts at GO Outdoors have listed four of the best places for a deadly dander this Halloween.
The study analysed the number of Tripadvisor reviews which mentioned terms like ‘spooky’ and ‘ghost’ alongside reports of paranormal activity to identify the scariest walking spots in Northern Ireland.
Their spookiest places for a walk in Northern Ireland are:
Rank
Walk
County
Total reviews
Reviews mentioning 'spooky' keywords
Reviews mentioning 'spooky' keywords (%)
Total paranormal sightings (county)
Paranormal sightings per 10,000 people
1
Dark Hedges
County Antrim
2,005
669
33.4%
81
1.2
2
Giant’s Causeway
County Antrim
11,955
612
5.1%
81
1.2
3
Downhill Demesne
County Londonderry
501
18
3.6%
15
0.6
4
Carrickfergus Castle
County Antrim
1,044
30
2.9%
81
1.2
GO Outdoors said: "Topping the list as Northern Ireland’s spookiest walk is the Dark Hedges in County Antrim, where over a third of visitors describe the atmosphere as spooky.
"This avenue of ancient beech trees sets a chilling scene, which is made even spookier by local folklore. With 81 paranormal sightings, the area is said to be haunted by the mysterious Grey Lady who drifts between the trees.
"A must-visit this Halloween, one visitor describes the Dark Hedges as 'every bit as enchanting and eerie as the photos suggest'."
Natalie Wolfenden, expert at GO Outdoors, said: “With darker evenings approaching and Halloween just around the corner, many people will be planning to get outside and enjoy some ‘spooktacular’ walks.
"While a spooky stroll is a great way to connect with nature and soak up the Halloween atmosphere, it is essential to take extra precautions to stay safe."
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