Spooky Halloween Events Return to Ireland's Historic Sites Including Charles Fort

The Office of Public Works has announced a spine-tingling programme of Halloween events at heritage sites across Ireland this October, with Charles Fort in Cork offering a particularly eerie experience for those brave enough to face 'The Hour of Darkness'.

From ghostly tours to treasure hunts, families across the country can explore Ireland's historic locations in a new light this Halloween season, with events running throughout the remainder of October at various OPW Heritage sites.

Closer to home, visitors to Charles Fort Military Fortress in Cork can delve into the darkest corners of the historic site on the Halloween Trail, 'The Hour of Darkness is Upon Us'. The OPW advises visitors to bring a torch for this spine-tingling experience, as they navigate the ancient fortress after dark.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin "Boxer" Moran, said:

"It is great to see such a diverse range of events on offer at a number of OPW locations throughout the country this October. Families will be in for a fright with a range of ghoulish tours, spooky treasure hunts and other fun activities on offer: there's truly something for everyone, young and old."

Beyond Cork, the programme includes family-friendly events at locations nationwide. Ross Castle in Kerry will transform into a haunted haven complete with ghouls, goblins and witches, whilst visitors can take part in a spooky treasure hunt collecting Halloween stickers along the way.

At the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, the 'Halloween at Glasnevin' tour and 'Samhain Embers' tours will rekindle ancient folklore and traditions of Samhain, exploring the myths and stories of plants used during this otherworldly time.

Brave souls in Galway can tackle the Creepy Castle Quest at Portumna Castle, answering riddles to win the ultimate prize, whilst Parke's Castle in Leitrim offers ghost stories, face painting and fancy dress for an afternoon of spooky fun.

For adults seeking a more chilling experience, Cahir Castle in Tipperary presents 'Great Was The Darkness', an evening of haunting tales from Medieval Ireland told by Waterford-born Dublin-based medievalist Hannah Mac Auliffe. This event is suitable for adults only.

Other events include ghostly tales at Sligo Abbey, complete with fancy dress treasure hunts, Victorian gadget mysteries at Emo Court and Estate in Laois, and a ghost hunt at Ennis Friary in Clare.

Young artists can also participate in the OPW's Halloween Colouring Competition, featuring a spooky image of Trim Castle. Entries can be collected at participating sites or downloaded online.

Full details of all events and booking information are available at www.heritageireland.ie.