Spooky

Ghost hunts

Experience the Paranormal After Dark

Step beyond the history books and into the shadows of one of the UK’s most haunted landmarks. At Oxford Castle & Prison, with nearly 1,000 years of grim stories woven into its walls, you’re invited to lead your own paranormal investigation in settings seeped in centuries of mystery, death, imprisonment and reported supernatural activity.

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About Ghost Hunts

This isn’t a typical walking tour - it’s an exclusive paranormal investigation held within the atmospheric Crypt, St George’s Tower base, the D‑Wing prison cells and Debtors Tower - areas believed to harbour lingering spirits due to the castle’s long and turbulent history.

Recognised by the BBC as one of Britain’s most haunted buildings, Oxford Castle & Prison offers small groups the rare chance to explore these eerie spaces with full access after normal visiting hours. Sign up for a single ghost hunt session or extend your night with a Sleepover Package where you privately hire the castle from 9pm to 8am — complete with breakfast included.

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What to Expect

  • Exclusive access to haunting locations, including the crypt, prison wings, towers, and more.
  • Freedom to use your own paranormal investigation kit (EMF detectors, thermometers, recorders, ouija boards, etc.).
  • Complimentary tea and coffee during your investigation.
  • Optional overnight sleepover package with private hire of the castle.
  • Insight into the castle’s chilling history - witchcraft, executions, imprisonment, and alleged hauntings.
  • Atmospheric surroundings perfect for vigils, group investigations, and psychic experiences (note: optional activities subject to organiser arrangements).

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Rates

Ghost Hunt rates from February 1st 2025 are:

  • Ghost Hunt (hourly rate before midnight) -  £180
  • Ghost Hunt (hourly rate after midnight) - £235
  • Ghost Hunt Sleepover (9pm – 8am) - £1475

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Plan Your Visit

  • Book Ahead: Ghost Hunts require advance booking - availability is limited, particularly in autumn and winter.
  • Group Size: Packages accommodate up to 35 guests; up to 5 lead investigators from your team.
  • Equipment: Bring your own paranormal tools; electrical gear must be PAT‑tested.
  • Parking: Limited on‑site parking for 3 cars; additional parking via nearby Park & Ride or city car parks.
  • What to Wear: Warm layers and sturdy footwear advised — many investigation areas are cold, dark, and uneven.
  • Booking Contact: Email info@oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk for packages and rates.

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Terms and Conditions

Please be aware that Oxford Castle & Prison is a very popular site for Ghost Hunt organisers. As such, availability can become limited, especially in Autumn and Winter.

Please read our full terms and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Capacity for our Ghost Hunt packages is 35 guests (not including your team members).

You can have up to 5 investigators from your team.

We require bookings for our hourly Ghost Hunts to be a minimum of 3 hours.

Our Ghost Hunt Sleepovers have a set time of 9pm – 8am and cannot be changed.

Please visit our Access Information page for more details.

We are happy for you to use any paranormal investigation equipment that you prefer (recording devices, thermometers, EMF detectors, ouija  boards etc), as long as it won’t cause damage to the site.

For any electrical equipment needing a plug socket, please only use equipment that has been PAT tested.

There is enough space on site for 3 cars to park.

Any other cars will need to use local car parks in the area or the Park and Rides. Please see our FAQs page for more details about car parking in Oxford.

Ghost Hunts are booked in minimum 3‑hour blocks; sleepover packages run from 9pm–8am.

Tea, coffee, and light refreshments are included; full meals are not unless part of a special event.

If you would like to use the well chamber in the castle mound or the punishment cells in the exercise yard, please let us know in advance. Since the well chamber and punishment cells are outside the main buildings, access is not guaranteed and is subject to weather conditions.

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