As Australia’s oldest city, Sydney is rich in lore and legends of ghosts, spirits, magic and more. It’s no surprise then that ghost tours in the city are a must for anyone drawn to the supernatural. If it’s atmosphere and storytelling you’re after, the city offers plenty of eerie experiences that will send chills down your spine. Expect haunted stations, ghostly goals and sinister islands teeming with stories that promise to give you goosebumps. If that sounds like your ideal night out, check out some of Sydney’s best ghost tours this Halloween.
1. Quarantine Ghost Tours Manly
Sydney’s Quarantine Station on North Head is infamous for being not just Sydney’s but one of Australia’s most haunted sites, making it an ideal spot for for a ghost tour. Established in 1832 to quarantine immigrants affected by disease, around 600 people are said to have died and been buried at Q Station, many of whom, it is believed, continue residing on-site in their ghostly forms. You can book short tours lasting 45 minutes or even stay overnight for a true taste of the haunted site. Read more about its history here and book your preferred tour here.
2. The Rocks Ghost Tours
The Rocks is home to some of Australia’s oldest buildings, some of which are believed to be haunted to this day. From Cadman’s Cottage, one of Sydney’s oldest buildings from the first 30 years of the colony to the infamously haunted Russell Hotel, there’s much to explore in every corner of the legend-seeped neighbourhood. The Rocks Ghost Tours will guide you through all the well-known landmarks sharing tales of macabre happenings along the way. There’s plenty to choose from including nightly ghost tours, history tours, team-building tours and more. You can even book a special Halloween ghost tour here to mark the spooky season. Take your pick and book a spot here.
3. Parramatta Gaol Ghost Tours
If you take ghost hunting seriously, Parramatta Gaol is the place to be. This eerie ghost tour takes you deep into the historical landmark bringing you face to face with its ancient walls as you learn creepy facts and chilling stories from the guides. Parramatta Gaol closed in 2011, making it the longest-serving goal in all of Australia so there are many stories waiting to be told at the correctional centre. Book your ghost tour here.
Please note: All events at Parramatta Gaol are currently on hold.
4. Cockatoo Island Ghost Tour
Cockatoo Island is just a 10-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay and an easy, no-fuss getaway from the city. The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with waterfront glamping tents and an outdoor cafe. But it’s a different story when the day turns to night. Between the years of 1839 to 1869, it served as a penal establishment where convicts were sent away and made to work under punishing circumstances. Ghostly sightings, cold shivers and feelings of being watched have been reported on site. Learn more about the historic spot on their ghost tours. Book a spot here.
5. Ghost Night at Old Government House
The ghost tour at Old Government House features spooky storytelling by candlelight at one of Australia’s oldest public buildings. Hear stories from staff, volunteers and past guests and learn more about its creepy past. You’ll also be taken through part of the Parramatta Park and treated to a light supper after the event where you can share stories of your experience with the group. Spots are limited, get more information and make a booking here.