The August Bank Holiday is upon us, and for many families, that means one last hurrah before the back-to-school madness begins. If you’re not jetting off abroad and you’re looking for a fun, affordable, and slightly spooky way to make memories with the kids, then a UK staycation might be the perfect answer — especially if you fancy something with a paranormal twist!

As a spooky family ourselves, we love to explore haunted locations and folklore-rich areas across the UK. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend break or looking ahead to October half-term, here are some of our favourite spooky staycation ideas in the UK — perfect for ghost-hunting families, young thrill-seekers, and little witches and wizards in training! 👻

👻 1. Whitby, North Yorkshire – The Home of Dracula

This seaside town is a gothic dream! Famous as the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Whitby offers dramatic clifftop views, the haunting ruins of Whitby Abbey, and plenty of spooky history to uncover. Kids can enjoy fossil hunting on the beach, while grown-ups dive into ghost tours and vampire legends. It’s a fang-tastic destination for all ages.

🕯️ 2. Pluckley, Kent – The Most Haunted Village in England

Pluckley has a reputation for being the most haunted village in the UK, with over a dozen reported ghosts. Why not explore the countryside on a daytime walk, then settle in nearby for some traditional pub grub and storytelling? While the ghost sightings might be too intense for younger kids, older ones will love the eerie tales.

🌊 3. Cornwall – Myth, Magic and Mystery

Cornwall is steeped in folklore — from King Arthur’s Tintagel Castle to the ghostly legends of Bodmin Moor. Combine beach days with castle ruins and local ghost tours for a mix of sunny fun and spectral adventure. This is a great choice for a family that enjoys a good balance of the spooky and the scenic.

🎃 4. Haven Holiday Parks – Ideal for October Half-Term Getaways

Planning ahead for the October half-term? You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a magical autumn break. Haven Holiday Parks offer a wide selection of coastal escapes around the UK — with fun-filled activities, evening entertainment, and the perfect base to explore nearby haunted castles, ancient woods, and mysterious moorlands.

Whether you’re roasting marshmallows after a day on the beach or exploring spooky local folklore, a Haven holiday is ideal for a half-term adventure. Many parks go all out for Halloween, with themed events and dress-up fun for all ages! 🎃

🏰 5. Edinburgh, Scotland – A City Full of Ghosts

For families with teens or tweens, Edinburgh is the ultimate spooky city break. The historic capital is packed with ghost stories, underground vault tours, and ancient cemeteries with chilling tales. If your little ones are brave enough, this is a brilliant spot to soak up real history alongside eerie encounters.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Staycation a Spookcation!

You don’t need to go far to find a little magic — or mischief — here in the UK. From haunted castles to eerie woodlands, the UK is full of supernatural stories just waiting to be discovered.

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute August Bank Holiday trip or planning ahead for October half-term, there’s something for every spooky family to enjoy.

👉 Book your half-term break now with Haven and turn your staycation into a spooktacular family adventure!

Stay spooky,
Catherine aka SpookyMrsGreen 🖤

Did you enjoy this article? Support your favourite paranormal author by shopping through my affiliate link. Click here. 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!