Dublin is a city with layers, of history, of stories, and of spirits. From medieval crypts to centuries-old castles, whispers of the supernatural are never far away. For guests of The Hendrick Hotel, it’s closer still, as our own Hendrick Street has long been spoken of as one of the most haunted places in Dublin.
Whether you’re here for Halloween or simply love a good ghost story, these are some of Dublin’s most chillingly atmospheric spots to explore.
Jump to section
- Kilmainham Gaol
- The Black Church
- St Michan’s Church
- The Gravediggers
- Malahide Castle
- Connolly Station
- The Brazen Head
- Hellfire Club
- Hendrick St
Kilmainham gaol
One of Ireland’s most historic buildings, Kilmainham Gaol has seen it all — revolutionaries, rebels, executions, and escapes.
Today, it’s one of Dublin’s most visited heritage sites, but it’s also known for unexplained footsteps, slamming doors, and eerie shadows in its deserted corridors. It’s little wonder many say the spirits of past prisoners still walk these halls.
The prison was also home to events such as public hangings which could be seen taking place at it’s entrance. One of the most important chapters in Irish History occurred within Kilmainham Gaol and the Prison Chapel.
This is evident as visitors can walk through the very cells which accommodated those involved in Easter Rising of 1916 just prior to their meeting a grisly end in the Kilmainham Gaol’s courtyard. It certainly offers an unforgettable experience that will forever leave many people with a lasting impression of Ireland’s dark past.
If you’re in the area checking our Kilaminham Gaol, why not stop in for some lunch at Broyage Terrace
The black church
A short stroll from Smithfield, this gothic ruin has inspired Dublin folklore for centuries. Local legend warns that if you walk anti-clockwise around it three times at midnight, the devil himself may appear. While few are brave enough to test the tale, its haunting atmosphere alone is enough to raise the hairs on your neck.
St. Michan’s church, arran quay
St. Michan’s Church, located in Arran Quay, is famous for its underground crypts that house centuries-old mummies. These preserved remains have witnessed countless events over the years, and some claim they may even be reanimated at times. It truly is one of the most Haunted places in Dublin
Visitors often report feeling an inexplicable presence and a sensation of being watched while exploring the dark chambers of the crypt. Inside the caskets, the mumified remains lay there including;The Thief (complete with severed hands and feet), The Crusader, The 400-year-old nun, The Unknown as well as the Death Mask of Wolfe Tone all on display in St Michan’s Church.
Dracula’s author Bram Stoker took inspiration from the church when writing the hit novel, taking inspiration for his supernatural characters.
Tragedy struck in 2024 when an arson attack caused devastating fire damage to several mummies. Tours remain suspended while restoration efforts continue, with the church appealing for public support. Despite this setback, St. Michan’s remains a vital part of Dublin’s haunted lore.
The Gravediggers, Dublin 9
Beside Glasnevin Cemetery lies one of Dublin’s most atmospheric pubs. Known affectionately as The Gravediggers, it’s said to be visited by more than the living. Patrons tell tales of phantom figures and ghostly movements, while the pub itself retains a timeless charm.
Order a pint of Guinness and perhaps a bowl of coddle, if you don’t mind the company.
A spectral figure is seen regularly sitting in the corner, sipping on his pint. Just as quickly as he appears, he disappears again without a trace. Check out their facebook to see opening times and menu.
Get the latest special offers from the Hendrick direct to your inbox.
Love our guides to Dublin, the fascinating histories around us or the inside scoop on the best events in Dublin 7!
Malahide Castle
If ghost stories are more favourable than scary stories, then over the estuary lies an ancient castle in the small village of Malahide. For over 800 years, the Malahide Castle grounds have witnessed duels, battles, blood and death. It’s no suprise that inside the castle walls, the long gone souls continue to haunt the hallways and turrets such as Puck the court jester or the Lady in White.
Everytime they have visitors, new reports of spine-tingling presences are told of as they toured the building.
Connolly station, dublin 1
As Dublin’s main railway hub, Connolly Station is always busy. But in the quieter hours, staff and travellers alike have reported mysterious footsteps, figures that vanish into thin air, and the feeling of being watched. Built on land with a complex past, Connolly has become one of Dublin’s lesser-known haunted locations.
Hendrick Street
And then there’s our own home. Hendrick Street has long carried whispers of hauntings, with tales of restless spirits tied to its history. Guests at The Hendrick Hotel often remark on the atmosphere of the street at night — a place where past and present seem to blur. Whether you believe or not, staying on one of Dublin’s most haunted addresses adds an undeniable thrill to your visit.
Stay and discover dublin!
After a day of ghost tours, haunted walks, and spine-tingling stories, return to the modern comforts of The Hendrick Hotel. Our bold design and cosy spaces are the perfect retreat from Dublin’s darker side. Share your ghostly encounters in our bar, or simply unwind knowing the city’s most haunted spots are right outside your door.
All rooms in the Hendrick have
- Individually Controlled Air Conditioning
- Power Shower with Rituals Toiletries
- 32″ TV with Chromecast
- Free High-Speed WiFi
- Safe suitable for laptops up to 13″
- Tea & Coffee
So what are you waiting for,
The brazen head
The Brazen Head is renowned as Dublin’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198. With such a long history, it’s no surprise that it’s said to have a few resident ghosts. Visitors and staff have recounted encounters with mysterious apparitions, flickering lights, and unexplained drafts. Most notably, The Brazen Head is haunted by the ghost of Robert Emmett, Irish Revolutionary who was executed in 1803, for his role in the Thomas Street disturbance.
It is said that the pub is also haunted by his executioner which must make for an awkward pint. You can read more about the history of Ireland’s oldest pub in their archives.
Hellfire club
The old Hunting Lodge up on Mountpelier hill dates back to the 18th Century, and was home to devil worshippers aka the young wealthy boys club. They would meet to play cards, drink beer, hire prostitutes, and worship Satan himself.
It’s reported that Satan did visit the Hellfire Club for a game of cards, before leaving through the chimney. Visiting here in the daytime is our best advice, the views are worth it, the supernatural not so much!
The wrap up
Did we make this up like Bram Stoker’s Dracula, or are these real life tales of the eerie history hidden around Dublin Castle and Marsh’s Library?
Looking to stay in one of Ireland’s spookiest sites this Halloween? Book your stay at The Hendrick Smithfield here
Dublin, with its rich history and centuries-old buildings, holds numerous stories of the supernatural. These Haunted places in Dublin offer a glimpse into our city’s spooky past, providing a unique and spine-tingling experience for those daring enough to explore the unknown.
Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just curious about Dublin’s dark side, these locations will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the mysterious and ghostly tales that haunt this vibrant city.