In late fall and winter, when a chill is in the London air and night falls early, it’s the perfect time to take a ghost walk through the streets of this very old, historical—and, some say, haunted—city. An accommodation in London can put you close to some of the most popular tours in town…and provide a bright, safe, cozy place for you to come home too!
A favorite ghost walk with visitors takes place near Bank underground station and passes by the site of Scrooge’s office in “A Christmas Carol” before winding its way down an allegedly cursed cobblestone street, through ancient courtyards and silent churchyards, to a well-known City landmark that is gaining a reputation for recent ghostly activity, and an historic building where tour members have seen an old woman waving to them from the upper windows of an empty room.
If the thought of any of that sends shivers down your spine, you’ll definitely want to book a spot on the famous Jack the Ripper walks in nearby Aldgate as well. These outings will take you to an 1888 building where an infamous suspect worked as a barber, into an alley where the first possible victim was found, and to the Princess Alice Pub, which shares a connection to Leather Apron, another main figure of interest for the police.
During these walks, you’ll soak up the atmospheric streets and sights of old London and be introduced to local, legendary public houses and restaurants—where you may want to return for a well-earned pint. You will also be entertained by the narratives and chilling anecdotes of the tour guides, seasoned storytellers whose words make the area’s rich past come to life around you.
At around only £8 per person, a ghost walk is one of the most affordable ways to see the city, learn a bit of its history, and be treated to some theatre-worthy tales. Rather than spending a lot of money on tickets to a crowded West End play, take a ghost walk, where the streets are the stage, the spectacles surround you and the main action takes place in your imagination…and possibly in the upstairs window of a dimly lit pub you just passed by!
To enjoy your stay in Islington and fully appreciate all the attractions that this central area has to offer, we suggest the following accommodations:
• An immaculate fifth-floor studio accommodation in City-Islington (LN-226) in a modern building with porter and elevator, within walking distance of sights such as St. Paul’s and three nearby underground stations, including Bank. This rental comes with laundry, balcony and queen-sized bed, as well as hardwood floors and fantastic views.
• A clean and comfortably furnished 2-bedroom accommodation in City-Islington (LN-370) near Mansion House station, close to the ghost walks and all riverside attractions. This apartment is well-equipped with laundry and dryer, queen-sized beds and built-in wardrobes.
For some fun and a few chills, check out the London ghost walks at www.london-ghost-tour.com and www.jack-the-ripper-tour.com — and for the best place to hide under your sheets at night, stay in a vacation rental in Islington.
Leave us your haunted tale of London below.
I thought that this was going to be one big hoax when a friend told me about this area and the different tours that one could take. In actuality these were some of the more interesting parts of London that I visited. It was not as frightening as one might think, although I can definitely understand why some people would get scared. There is a creepy air about these places, and the atmosphere just feels dense. Even though I did not get to witness the ghost woman, the ghost walks are still highly recommended!
The ghost walks are a really great time. I went on a whim with some friends while I was studying in London and it really was unlike anything I had done before. I have always been a fan of creepy places and this justified. If you get the opportunity you will enjoy it.
I did a walking guided tour in Venice last week about ghosts and Mysteries of that Italian town. I would love to the one in London!!