Where Fairies & Phantoms Walk at Halloween in Ireland

October 24 – November 1, 2026

This Halloween, step beyond the veil and journey into the ancient, mysterious soul of Ireland on a once-in-a-lifetime ghost tour where folklore, history, and the supernatural collide. From October 24th to November 1st, 2026, experience Ireland at the most powerful time of year—Samhain, when the boundary between worlds is at its thinnest.

Our haunted adventure begins in the Dublin Mountains at the world-renowned Hellfire Club, a site infamous for dark rituals, ghostly apparitions, and legends of the Devil himself. As the wind sweeps across the ruins, the atmosphere is unmistakably unsettling. From there, we visit the ancient halls of Malahide Castle, one of Ireland’s most haunted castles, home to centuries of tragic spirits still said to roam its corridors and grounds.

Traveling west, we arrive in the vibrant city of Galway, where Halloween is celebrated like nowhere else. You’ll attend a spectacular Halloween Parade, filled with fire, music, costumes, and ancient Celtic tradition—an unforgettable celebration of Ireland’s pagan roots.

Before descending further into darkness, we visit a special Fairy Farm, where stories of the “Good People,” fairy paths, and ancient protections reveal Ireland’s mystical side.

Then comes one of the most chilling highlights of the journey: Leap Castle, widely regarded as the most haunted castle in Europe. Explore the infamous Bloody Chapel and hear terrifying accounts of the Elemental and centuries of betrayal, violence, and unrest that continue to echo through its walls. This is a paranormal experience not for the faint of heart.

The journey continues through some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes with visits to Kylemore Abbey and Westport House, both rich in history and set amidst dramatic mountains, lakes, and rolling countryside—places of deep beauty and lingering stories.

In Sligo, a land steeped in ancient myth and gothic inspiration, the experience becomes both haunting and magical. Explore the mysterious Carrowmore Megalithic Tombs, older than the pyramids and aligned with ancient rituals of life and death. Enjoy a stunning drive along the Horseshoe Drive, revealing panoramic views of wild Atlantic landscapes. Feel the mist at the enchanting Glencar Waterfall, glide across the dark waters of Lough Gill on a scenic boat ride, and visit a mystical Holy Well revered for centuries.

As dusk settles, stroll through Sligo town, visiting locations connected to Bram Stoker’s family, whose ties to the region helped inspire the imagination behind Dracula. The echoes of folklore, poetry, and Gothic legend surround you at every turn.

And this is only part of the journey. From hidden stories and quiet moments of wonder to spine-tingling encounters and unforgettable scenery, this Halloween ghost tour offers far more than can be captured in words.

This special Halloween tour marks the second collaboration between Secret Ireland Tours and Austin Ghost Tours, bringing together two trusted names in immersive storytelling and paranormal travel.

By combining Secret Ireland Tours’ deep local knowledge, exclusive access, and passion for authentic Irish experiences with Austin Ghost Tours’ expertise in ghost lore and unforgettable haunted storytelling, this partnership creates a truly unique journey through Ireland’s most mysterious and legendary locations.

Building on the success of their first collaboration, this tour offers guests an expertly curated experience where history, folklore, and the paranormal seamlessly intertwine—delivering an unforgettable Halloween adventure unlike any other.

The Ambassador for this tour is the Owner/Director of Austin Ghost Tours, Jeanine Plummer, who will entertain you with stories of hauntings as you travel throughout Ireland. You will experience Ireland together and make many magical memories while there.

1  The company requires non-refundable deposits to be paid as per tour in a timely manner. By paying a deposit you are agreeing to the terms and conditions of the Company.

2  Our tours are all based on double occupancy. There will be an additional supplement for single travelers which will depend on tour taken. 

3  Payment for deposit will hold your place, final balance  payment will be 40 days before the start of your choice of  tour. If paying by credit card you might incur bank charges.

4  Installment plans are available for anyone who would like to avail of them.

5  Travel insurance is something that the company strongly suggests all clients purchase to protect their travel investment.  Please find a package that covers you if you have to cancel close to the tour time because we do not refund if you have to cancel for any reason.You can find links for Insurance companies on our website www.SecretIrelandToursLLC.com

6  Due to limited capacity on coaches, there may be a limit of one suitcase per passenger. 

7  Participants are responsible for all their property, luggage, backpacks, phone's, laptops etc. 

8  The company tour guide will give all participants phone no's of tour guides and driver at the start of the trip or in an email before the start of the trip, it is vital that you keep these in a safe place.

9  At the start of each day your tour guide will tell you what time you should be ready, or to be on the bus for the next day's journey, it is up to you to contact your guide if you missed announcements on times. 

10 We strongly suggest you to purchase travel insurance to cover your travel investment in the event that you have to cancel your trip closer to the travel date.

11  Some of our trips require walking over stony roads and pathways, it is advised to always bring strong waterproof walking shoes, and waterproof/windproof outer coats/jackets also.

12 We also advise all participants to let us know of food allergies they have. We also state that if there are walks on rough surfaces or up hills, if you don't think you can take part please let us know and you can stay on the bus with the driver.

13 Each participant is responsible for their baggage being brought from the Coach to their accommodation except in the case where the company have booked porterage. The group will be advised where porterage will take place.

14 Conditions, availability, or contractual obligations may warrant for dates, venues, lodging, talent/celebrity headliners/hosts/guests. Ambassadors, tour guides or transportation modes to be changed or cancelled. It is our intent and obligation, within the best of our ability, to substitute and /or accommodate equal or enhanced alternatives. We will not refund any deposits or payments towards the tour due to these conditions.

15 There is a certain fitness level required for this tour, if you feel that you cannot walk up hill or long walks, we will ask you to stay on the bus. 

16 Secret Ireland Tours operates on an 8 to 9 hour day policy. When we depart early, usually around 9 AM, we generally return to our accommodations between 6 PM and 7 PM. If we have evening excursions, we leave later in the day to comply with legal driving time regulations for our driver.

17 We do not hire additional drivers to extend the length of our tours. While some people may prefer tours lasting 10 to 12 hours, the majority do not.

18 We reserve the right to refuse service.

19 This tour is based on 20 participants booked.

Hell's Fire Club:

Perched high in the Dublin Mountains, the Hellfire Club is one of Ireland’s most infamous paranormal hotspots, a place where dark legends and unexplained activity continue to terrify visitors to this day. Built in the 18th century and long associated with secret societies and sinister rituals, the site is said to be plagued by shadow figures, sudden drops in temperature, disembodied footsteps, and an overwhelming sense of being watched. Locals and investigators alike report encounters with a mysterious black cat with blazing red eyes, believed by some to be demonic in origin, as well as apparitions that appear and vanish without warning. As night falls and the wind howls across the ruins, electronic disturbances, whispered voices, and intense emotional sensations are commonly experienced—making the Hellfire Club a chilling must-visit for anyone drawn to true paranormal phenomena and Ireland’s darkest legends.

Malahide Castle:

Malahide Castle is renowned not only for its centuries of history, but for the many spirits said to still walk its ancient halls—most famously Puck, the castle’s mischievous court jester. Dressed in traditional fool’s attire, Puck is often described as a small, playful figure who delights in startling visitors, tugging at clothing, knocking objects over, and laughing softly before vanishing. Despite his antics, he is considered a friendly presence and is said to appear in photographs and reflections throughout the castle. Malahide is also home to several darker spirits, including Lady Maud Plunkett, whose tragic love story is believed to fuel her restless wandering, and Miles Corbet, a former castle owner executed for treason, whose imposing apparition has been seen pacing the Great Hall. Footsteps echo where no one stands, cold spots settle without warning, and apparitions are frequently reported—cementing Malahide Castle’s reputation as one of Ireland’s most haunted and paranormally active castles.

Itinerary subject to change depending on availability, weather, or other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: High

Halloween Parade, Galway:

Galway’s Halloween Parade, created by the world-famous Macnas Theatre Company, is a spellbinding spectacle that transforms the city into a living dreamscape of myth and mischief. Drawing on ancient Celtic tradition and contemporary street theatre, Macnas fills the streets with towering illuminated figures, fire performers, drummers, dancers, and hauntingly beautiful costumes that seem to rise straight from Ireland’s folklore. As darkness falls, the parade pulses with energy, music, and ritual, celebrating Samhain, the ancient festival marking the thinning of the veil between worlds. Both eerie and enchanting, the Macnas Halloween Parade is a powerful, immersive experience—one that captures the magic, mystery, and otherworldly spirit of Galway at Halloween like nowhere else in Ireland.

Itinerary subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: Moderate

Leap Castle:

Step inside Leap Castle, Ireland’s most haunted castle, and feel the dark energy of its bloody past. From the infamous Bloody Chapel to shadowy figures and chilling cold spots, the castle is alive with paranormal activity.

Visitors report whispering voices, doors that move on their own, and a malevolent spirit known as the Elemental. For those drawn to the mysterious and the macabre, Leap Castle offers a spine-tingling encounter you won’t forget.

Intinerary subject to change depending on availability, weather and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity level: Moderate

Kylemore Abbey:

Kylemore Abbey, nestled in the heart of Connemara, County Galway, is a breathtaking blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The grand abbey, with its Gothic-style architecture and picturesque stonework, sits beside a serene mirror-like lake, reflecting its elegant façade against the backdrop of the majestic mountains.

Surrounding the abbey are manicured Victorian walled gardens, vibrant with seasonal flowers, aromatic herbs, and winding paths that invite peaceful strolls. Beyond the formal gardens, the landscape opens into the wild beauty of Connemara, with rolling hills, lush woodlands, and sparkling streams creating a scene that feels timeless and untouched.

Kylemore Abbey is not just a historic site—it’s a sanctuary where the harmony of nature and human artistry leaves visitors utterly enchanted.

Westport House:

Westport House, a magnificent stately home in County Mayo, is steeped in history and legend. Built on the site of a medieval castle, it is closely associated with Grace O’Malley, the famed 16th-century “Pirate Queen” of Connacht, who once commanded the seas and challenged the English crown.

Legend has it that Westport’s lands and waterways were part of her domain, and her fearless spirit still seems to echo through the house and gardens. Visitors can explore the grand rooms, period furnishings, and scenic grounds while imagining the daring adventures of Grace O’Malley, whose courage and cunning made her a lasting icon of Irish history.

The combination of elegant architecture, rich history, and the mystique of Ireland’s legendary sea queen makes Westport House a captivating destination for history lovers and storytellers alike.

Itinerary subject to change depending on availability, weather, and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: Low/Moderate

Horseshoe Drive:

The Horseshoe Drive in County Sligo is a spectacular journey through some of Ireland’s most rugged and untamed landscapes. Winding its way through rolling mountains, deep valleys, and along the edges of shimmering lakes, the route offers breathtaking views at every turn. The wild beauty of the area, with dramatic cliffs, rocky outcrops, and sweeping panoramas, feels almost untouched by time, giving travelers a true sense of Ireland’s natural majesty. Along the drive, the air is crisp, the scenery ever-changing, and the sense of adventure palpable, making the Horseshoe Drive an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking the raw, awe-inspiring essence of Sligo.

Glencar Waterfall:

Glencar Waterfall, nestled in the lush countryside of County Leitrim, is a stunning natural wonder that captivates visitors with its graceful cascade of crystal-clear water tumbling into a serene pool below. Surrounded by verdant woodlands, moss-covered rocks, and vibrant wildflowers, the waterfall is a peaceful haven that invites reflection and a sense of connection with nature. Its misty spray and the gentle roar of water create a magical atmosphere, enhanced by the backdrop of the rolling hills and tranquil Glencar Valley. Immortalized in Irish poetry and folklore, Glencar Waterfall is not just a scenic destination—it’s a place of inspiration, wonder, and timeless beauty.

Holy Well:

Tobernault Holy Well, located near Cong in County Mayo, is a sacred site steeped in centuries of Irish spiritual tradition. Dedicated to St. Patrick, the well has long been a place of pilgrimage, prayer, and healing, where visitors come to leave votive offerings, light candles, and drink or bathe in its waters, believed to carry curative properties. Surrounded by ancient stonework and tranquil greenery, the well retains an aura of serenity and reverence, connecting the present with the deep faith of generations past. Local legend tells of miraculous healings and blessings granted to those who visit with devotion, making Tobernault Holy Well a powerful symbol of Ireland’s enduring sacred heritage.

Itinerary subject to change depending on availability, weather, or other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: Moderate

Lisheen House:

Lisheen House in County Sligo is a hauntingly atmospheric manor that has earned a reputation for paranormal activity. Visitors and paranormal investigators report mysterious footsteps echoing through the ruins, galloping horses, and sudden screams can be heard, which send shivers down the spine. Shadowy figures have been glimpsed outside, and some guests claim to feel an unseen presence watching them.

The house’s eerie energy is said to stem from its long and often turbulent history, where echoes of the past linger within its walls. It is said locally that a poltergeist haunts the ruins. It is said that the owner, an archaeologist, brought artifacts back from Egypt that brought nothing but terror to the house and its occupants. For those drawn to the supernatural, Lisheen House offers a thrilling, spine-tingling encounter with Ireland’s haunted heritage.

Bram Stoker Walk:

For those who are fans of Dracula, you will know the author, Bram Stoker. Well, you will be taken on a really interesting walk of Sligo and introduced to many places associated with Bram's family.

His mother was from Sligo and he would come to visit and stay with his Grandmother, she would tell him stories of the cholera outbreak. It is widely known that these stories inspired him in his writings.

Sligo Town:

You will have some time to explore Sligo town on your own. There is so much to see and your guide will tell you of all the good places of interest and restaurants to get a nice evening meal.

Itinerary subject to change depending on availability, weather, or other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: Moderate/High

Galway City:

Galway City is a vibrant, exhilarating blend of history, culture, and infectious energy that captures the heart the moment you arrive. Colorful shopfronts line lively streets filled with traditional music drifting from cozy pubs, while street performers bring a spontaneous, joyful rhythm to daily life. The River Corrib flows confidently toward the sea, linking the medieval Latin Quarter to the fresh Atlantic air of Galway Bay. Here, centuries-old stone buildings stand proudly beside buzzing cafés, artisan markets, and creative spaces, reflecting the city’s deep-rooted traditions and youthful spirit. With its warm welcome, artistic soul, and constant hum of excitement, Galway City feels alive at every hour, inviting visitors to join in its unmistakable charm and celebration of life.

You will have the day to shop, explore, eat and take plenty of pictures.

Itinerary subject to change depending on weather, availability and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: High

Dublin Ghost Walk:

As darkness falls, an eerie ghost walk through Dublin City reveals a shadowy side hidden behind its lively streets and glowing shop windows. Flickering lantern light guides you through narrow medieval lanes, past ancient churches and silent courtyards where whispered legends cling to the stone walls. Tales of restless spirits, tragic executions, and long-forgotten souls echo through places like St. Audoen’s Church and the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, transforming familiar landmarks into chilling storytellers. The hush of footsteps, the creak of old doors, and the feeling of unseen eyes create an atmosphere thick with suspense. On a Dublin ghost walk, history comes alive in the most haunting way, leaving you with goosebumps and a lingering sense that the city’s past is never truly at rest.

Fitzpatrick's Castle Hotel:

Perched high above Dublin Bay, Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel in Killiney is an exhilarating blend of historic charm and modern luxury, offering views that instantly take your breath away. This elegant castle hotel commands sweeping panoramas of the glittering Irish Sea and the Wicklow Mountains, creating a dramatic backdrop from sunrise to sunset. Steeped in character and tradition, its warm interiors, welcoming fireplaces, and refined dining spaces make every stay feel special and indulgent. Just steps from the scenic paths of Killiney Hill, Fitzpatrick’s Castle is the perfect base for exploration by day and relaxation by night—where old-world grandeur meets contemporary comfort in one of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal settings.

Itinerary subject to availability, weather or other conditions out of our control.

Activity Level: Moderate/High

Wishing you a safe and comfortable flight as you head home, with memories of Ireland’s beauty, stories, and spirit traveling with you. May the journey be smooth, the skies be kind, and the experiences you’ve shared here stay close to your heart. Until we meet again, take care, travel safely, and come back soon—Ireland will be waiting to welcome you home once more.

If you have family and friends who would like to travel as a group to Ireland or anywhere in the Brittish Isles or Europe, contact us and we will be happy to put it all together for you.