13 Haunted London Hotels You Can Book Now
Fancy a built-in ghost hunt during your London travels? Stay in a haunted hotel and your epic London day doesn’t have to end when you hit the pillow.
Since I live in London and am obsessed with ghost hunting, here’s my ultimate list of the most haunted hotels in London. London has so much spooky history that it is awash with haunted hotels.
Keep in mind that staying anywhere in London – let alone in one of these notoriously haunted hotels – can be quite pricey, but don’t let that hold you back.
Most have lobbies, restaurants and tea rooms where you can experience the spooky ambiance for a fraction of the cost of a nightly stay.
Visit my map to see the locations of all haunted London hotels!
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1. Brown’s Hotel, Mayfair: Haunted Hotel with a Bentley
Brown’s Hotel is an ultra-luxurious hotel in the heart of Mayfair, and an absolutely epic haunted hotel that’s still a little off the radar of ghost hunters.
It was founded in 1837 by James Brown (no, not that James Brown), and quickly became a favorite of British and European aristocracy.
Over the years, the hotel has hosted numerous famous guests, including Theodore Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Queen Victoria.
This haunted hotel has a history dating back to the 19th century, when a maid named Caroline was said to have fallen to her death from a window in one of the hotel’s rooms.
Guests have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering the halls of the hotel, and hearing strange noises and unexplained movements in their rooms.
Another ghostly presence at Brown’s Hotel is said to be that of Rudyard Kipling, who is rumored to have stayed in one of the hotel’s suites while writing ‘The Jungle Book’.
Guests have reported hearing the sound of a typewriter coming from Kipling’s old suite… even though the room is now used for storage. Creepy!
Other authors who have stayed and been influenced by this iconic place: Bram Stoker and Agatha Christie. Stoker was a regular, and Agatha Christie is thought to have based Bertram’s Hotel in her famous novel ‘At Bertram’s Hotel’ on Brown’s.
Despite the hotel’s haunted reputation, it remains one of London’s most prestigious and luxurious hotels (seriously, you get a Bentley chauffeur standard), offering guests a chance to experience a piece of history and perhaps even encounter a ghostly presence or two.
Brown’s is definitely one of the most haunted places in London, and you can experience it for yourself!
2. The Langham, Marylebone: The Most Notorious Haunted Hotel in London
Is the Langham the most haunted hotel in London? Many seem to think so.
The Langham has a rich history dating back to 1865 when it first opened its doors. It was the largest and most luxurious hotel in the city at the time, and quickly became a favorite of royalty, celebrities, and politicians.
Over the years, the Langham has hosted numerous famous guests, including Mark Twain, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Princess Diana.
During World War II, the hotel was used as a government building and served as the headquarters for the BBC.
The hotel has a reputation for being home to numerous ghosts, including a German prince who leapt to his death from a window before WWI, and a man who killed his wife and then himself on their honeymoon.
Other spotted spirits include Napoleon III, who spent some of his exile in the Langham, a man with a bloody gash on his face, and various butlers and footmen.
In recent years, an English cricket team famously asked to leave the hotel after strange happenings in their rooms spooked the players.
The hotel has even been featured on popular paranormal shows like “Most Haunted” and “Ghost Adventures”. Room 333 purportes the most paranormal activity, so if you’re a ghost hunter, make sure to book into that triple-digit terror.
The Langham is definitely one of the most notoriously haunted places in London.
3. The Great Northern Hotel, King’s Cross: Dickensian Haunted Hotel
The Great Northern Hotel is a historic hotel located in King’s Cross. It was built in 1854 as part of the expansion of the Great Northern Railway, and has played a significant role in British transportation and hospitality.
Over the years, many notable guests have stayed at the hotel, including Charles Dickens, who referred to it as “the hotel where everything was done for the traveler’s comfort”.
However, the hotel’s most famous guest was perhaps American president Ulysses S. Grant, who stayed there during his world tour in 1877.
Despite its prestigious reputation, the Great Northern Hotel also has a reputation for being haunted.
The most famous ghost is believed to be that of a woman who committed suicide in one of the rooms during the 1920s. Her apparition has been seen wandering the corridors and is said to emit an eerie blue light.
Another ghostly presence is that of a man dressed in Victorian clothing, who has been seen in the hotel’s bar area. It is said that he was a patron who died in the hotel after being poisoned by his own business partner.
Despite these hauntings, the Great Northern Hotel remains a popular destination for travelers and history enthusiasts. Its Victorian architecture and luxurious interior make it an iconic landmark of London’s railway heritage.
4. The Royal Horseguards Hotel, Westminster: A Royal Haunted Hotel in London
The Royal Horseguards Hotel is a luxurious 5-star hotel near the River Thames and the Houses of Parliament. It has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was originally built as government offices for the Department of War.
During World War I, the hotel served as the headquarters for the British Secret Service, and it was here that Sir Winston Churchill held secret meetings during the war.
Over the years, the hotel has also been the site of several ghostly sightings and paranormal experiences. Guests and staff members have reported seeing the ghost of a soldier in full uniform walking through the hotel’s corridors, as well as strange noises and unexplained movements of objects.
The most famous ghostly sighting at the Royal Horseguards Hotel is that of the ghost of a lady in white, who is said to haunt Room 333.
According to legend, the lady in white was a beautiful young woman who was in love with a soldier, but her father disapproved of their relationship. Desperate to be together, the couple decided to elope, but they were caught and the soldier was executed.
The young woman was so heartbroken that she took her own life in Room 333 (the same room number as the most haunted suite in the Langham…hmmm), and her ghost has been seen wandering the hotel ever since.
Do you dare book room 333?
5. Hazlitt’s Hotel, Soho: A Harry Potter Haunted Hotel
Hazlitt’s Hotel is a posh historic hotel in London’s bustling Soho.
The building that houses the hotel was originally constructed in the 18th century as a private residence for William Hazlitt, a famous writer and philosopher. The house passed through several owners before being converted into a hotel in the 1980s.
Despite its luxurious amenities and high-end reputation, Hazlitt’s Hotel is known to be haunted by several ghosts.
The most famous of these is believed to be William Hazlitt himself, who died on the premises. He is said to appear in various parts of the hotel, and guests have reported seeing his ghostly figure in the library, sitting in his favorite chair reading a book.
Other guests have reported seeing him in the hotel’s dining room, where he is said to move objects around and make strange noises.
In addition to Hazlitt’s ghost, there are also reports of other paranormal activity in the hotel.
Some guests have reported feeling a cold presence in their rooms, or hearing unexplained noises in the middle of the night.
Others have reported seeing ghostly figures wandering the halls, or feeling as though they are being watched by an unseen presence.
Recently, Hazlitt’s has begun Harry Potter-themed teas and rooms. You should go find Moaning Myrtle, or a London ghosts of your own at Hazlitt’s!
6. The Dorchester Hotel, Mayfair: Haunted Hotel with a Haunted Roof?
The Dorchester Hotel is a luxury hotel on Park Lane next to Hyde Park.
It was opened in 1931, and has hosted numerous high-profile guests over the years, including celebrities, royalty, and politicians.
There have been several reported hauntings at The Dorchester. One of the most famous is the ghost of a man who is said to haunt the hotel’s roof. The man is believed to have fallen to his death from the roof and his ghost has been seen – and heard – by hotel guests and staff.
Another reported haunting is that of a woman in white who is said to haunt one of the hotel’s suites. The woman is believed to be the ghost of a former guest who died in the suite, and her presence has been reported by guests who have stayed there.
The hotel also has a reputation for being haunted by the ghost of a soldier. The soldier is said to have been killed during the Second World War while staying at the hotel and his ghost has been seen by guests and staff in the hotel’s corridors.
Do you dare stay in this haunted hotel?
7. The Ritz, Piccadilly: Haunted Hotels in London with Their Own Songs
“Puttin on the” Ritz is a luxurious five-star hotel that was opened in 1906 by Swiss hotelier Cesar Ritz. The hotel quickly gained a reputation for its opulence and extravagance, attracting wealthy guests and celebrities from around the world.
Over the years, the Ritz has hosted many notable events, including royal receptions, political gatherings, and lavish parties.
During World War II, the hotel was used as a government building and was targeted by German bombers.
Despite sustaining some damage, the Ritz was able to reopen after the war and resumed its status as one of the most prestigious hotels in the world.
The Ritz Hotel is said to be haunted by several ghosts, most famously that of the late Duke of Wellington. According to legend, the Duke’s ghost can be heard tapping his cane on the floor in the early hours of the morning in the Waterloo Suite.
Other ghostly sightings at the Ritz Hotel include a mysterious figure in a cloak and top hat, who is said to roam the hotel’s corridors, and the ghost of a chambermaid who allegedly committed suicide in one of the hotel’s rooms.
There may also be a Victorian woman haunting the premises, as a guest’s recent photo may have captured.
8. The Rosewood, Holborn: A Very Posh Haunted Hotel
The Rosewood Hotel has a rich history that dates back to 1914 when it was first opened as the Pearl Assurance Company headquarters.
During World War II, the building served as a hub for intelligence operations, and in the 1950s, it became the home of the Royal Institute of British Architects.
In 2007, the building was purchased by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, and underwent extensive renovations before being reopened as a luxury hotel in 2013.
Today, the Rosewood is known for its beautiful design, impeccable service, and impressive list of high-profile guests.
Despite its glamorous reputation, the Rosewood Hotel is also known for its haunted past. Legend has it that the building is home to several ghosts, including the spirits of children who died in a fire that broke out in the building during World War II.
Guests and staff members have reported strange occurrences at the hotel, including unexplained noises, doors opening and closing on their own, and apparitions appearing in the hallways.
Some guests have even reported being awakened in the middle of the night by the sound of children laughing and playing.
I’ve stayed in this hotel, and it definitely has a very spooky, historic vibe. I highly recommend staying at the Rosewood!
9. Claridge’s, Mayfair: A Haunted Hotel with High Tea
Claridge’s is a luxury hotel located in Mayfair, known for its posh afternoon teas.
The hotel was first established in 1812 and has since become known as one of the most prestigious hotels in the city.
Throughout its history, Claridge’s has been a popular destination for celebrities and royalty – even Taylor Swift has stayed here while in London.
Prince Albert and Queen Victoria were known to dine here, as well as several high society guests and politicians.
During World War II, the hotel served as the headquarters for the Allied forces, with many important military figures staying there. The hotel has also been featured in various films and television shows.
Despite its luxurious reputation, Claridge’s is said to be haunted by several ghosts. One of the most famous ghosts is that of a woman named Mrs. Spencer, who is believed to have been a former guest of the hotel.
Guests and staff members have reported seeing her ghostly figure on the fifth floor of the hotel, and some have even claimed to have felt her presence in their rooms.
Another ghostly presence is said to be that of a man who died in the hotel during the 1920s. His ghost is said to haunt the hotel’s bar area, where he can sometimes be seen sitting at the bar or wandering around the room.
10. St. Pancras Hotel, King’s Cross St. Pancras: A Budget-friendly Haunted Hotel in London
St. Pancras Hotel is a Victorian Gothic masterpiece located next to Kings Cross St Pancras.
It was built in 1868 as the Midland Grand Hotel, a symbol of railway luxury and grandeur, but was closed in 1935 and abandoned for several decades.
In the 1960s, the building was nearly demolished, but was eventually saved by a campaign led by poet Sir John Betjeman. It was later restored and reopened as the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel in 2011.
The hotel is known for its grand architecture and luxurious accommodations, but it is also infamous for its ghostly happenings.
There have been numerous reports of ghost sightings and paranormal activity, including apparitions of a lady in Victorian clothing, a young girl and a phantom train (nearby King’s Cross St Pancras Station is also very haunted).
One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the hotel is that of a former guest who died in his sleep in Room 506. Since then, guests have reported strange noises and sightings of the deceased man’s ghostly figure standing at the foot of the bed.
Poet Sir John Betjeman also may haunt the halls, and has been seen wandering with a book in his hand.
Other spooky occurrences include unexplained noises, doors opening and closing on their own, and ghostly figures wandering the halls.
This is one of the more affordable (but still pricey, as all of London is) options on this list, so it’s a good option if you want a haunted hotel on a budget.
This hotel is also famous for the Taylor Swift and Zayn music video for “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever,” which was filmed at the hotel.
11. Georgian House Hotel, Pimlico: A Georgian Haunted Hotel
The Georgian House Hotel was originally built in 1851 and served as a family home for many years before being converted into a hotel in the 1950s.
Over the years, the hotel has gained a reputation for being haunted, with many guests and staff reporting strange occurrences and ghostly sightings.
One of the most famous ghosts said to haunt the hotel is that of a young girl who died in a tragic accident in the building in the late 19th century. She has been seen wandering the halls and playing with toys in various rooms.
Other reported ghostly sightings include the apparition of a man in a top hat, believed to be a former owner of the hotel, as well as the ghostly figure of a woman in a white dress who has been seen in various parts of the building.
If you stay at the Georgian House, you’re sure to meet a London ghost.
12. The Cadogan Hotel, Knightsbridge: Literary Haunted Places in London
The Cadogan Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the very posh neighborhood of Knightsbridge. It was built in 1887 and quickly became a popular destination for wealthy travelers due to its elegant architecture and prime location.
The hotel is also famous for its association with several prominent historical figures, including Oscar Wilde and Lillie Langtry.
Oscar Wilde was arrested in Room 118 of the Cadogan Hotel in 1895 on charges of homosexuality, which was (creully) illegal at the time.
He was sentenced to two years of hard labor and his time at the hotel is said to have inspired his famous poem, “The Ballad of Reading Gaol.”
Some visitors claim to have seen Wilde’s ghostly figure wandering the halls of the hotel, particularly near Room 118 (which you can book!).
Lillie Langtry, a famous actress and socialite, was a frequent guest of the Cadogan Hotel in the late 19th century. She is said to haunt Room 109, where she stayed during her visits. Guests have reported feeling a cold presence in the room and hearing strange noises, including the sound of a woman weeping.
Other ghostly sightings at the Cadogan Hotel include a phantom footman who appears in the lobby and disappears into a wall, and a ghostly carriage that pulls up to the hotel’s entrance before vanishing into thin air.
13. The Savoy, Covent Garden: Haunted Hotel in London with a Celebrity Fanbase
The Savoy Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel that has been in operation since 1889. It was built by Richard D’Oyly Carte, a famous theatre impresario, and was designed to provide accommodation for his theater productions’ guests.
Over the years, the Savoy has hosted numerous notable guests, including Winston Churchill, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Princess Diana, and Taylor Swift. The hotel is also known for its art deco interior, its gourmet restaurants, and its renowned American Bar.
The hotel has a reputation for being haunted, with several ghosts said to roam its halls. The most famous of these is the ghost of the “Man in Grey,” who is believed to be the spirit of Ali Fahmy, who was murdered by his wife in a suite in 1923.
The ghost is said to wear a grey suit and hat and has been seen on numerous occasions, often disappearing through a wall in the hotel’s Tapestry Room.
Other reported ghostly occurrences include strange noises, moving objects, and sightings of a woman in a white dress. A lift in the hotel is allegedly operated by the ghost of a little girl, claimed to be killed in the building.
She’s also been seen roaming the hallway and in Room 502 (you should probably request this room…just to be sure to meet her).
Covent Garden’s history itself is fascinating, with legends of a serial killer baker, and the site of one of the most notorious slums in all of London history.
Haunted Hotels in London: Final Tips
If you’re looking for a haunted hotel in London, you can’t go wrong with any on this list.
But if the nightly rate is out of your range, you’re welcome (in most of these hotels) to visit the lobby and have a look around, or book a more affordable afternoon tea to experience the hauntings in daylight!
If you’re interested in haunted places in London, also check out:
- Masterlist: 66+ Haunted Places in London to See Today
- 11 of the Natural History Museum London Haunted Secrets
- London’s Oldest Pubs
- The Most Beautiful Pubs in London (Where the Ugliest Things Have Happened)
- Victorian Prisons of the Past
- Plague Pits in London: Charterhouse Square
More on London’s Dark History
Spooky Specters: 21 Ghosts of the Tower of London
Kray Walking Tour of East London: 7 Free Spots You Can See Today
London Serial Killers: 11 Documentaries on YouTube to Watch Now
What’s the Oldest Pub in London? 13 Curious Contenders
Gross Jobs in the 1800s: 10 Dirty and Dangerous Victorian Jobs
Bricks to Burberry: The 7 Worst Areas in London that are Now Super Posh
10 Ghastly Royal Deaths and What Happened to Their Corpses
London Charterhouse Square: Are There 50,000 Bodies Buried in this Lovely Garden?
Temple Bar London: Why did this London City Gate Sport Rotting Heads on Top?
