THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover Tyneside’s ghostly past with local author and ghost hunter Icy Sedgwick this October at The Black Gate. Immerse yourself in chilling tales and rich folklore during this one-hour talk in Newcastle upon Tyne’s historic core.
Discover Tyneside’s ghostly past with local author and ghost hunter Icy Sedgwick this October at The Black Gate. Immerse yourself in chilling tales and rich folklore during this one-hour talk in Newcastle upon Tyne’s historic core.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Newcastle Castle · Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Set in the historic heart of Newcastle upon Tyne at The Black Gate, the Harbottle Suite hosts a spellbinding event this October for those curious about the spectral shadows lingering over Tyneside. "Hauntings on Tyneside" invites visitors to delve into a chilling recount of ghost tales and haunted locales across the wider region, including Wallsend, Gateshead, North and South Shields. Local author and folklore expert Icy Sedgwick leads this atmospheric journey, weaving together eerie stories, local history, and her unique expertise gained from years of ghost hunting and academic research.
Newcastle upon Tyne is a city steeped in history, founded by the Romans and shaped by industrial vigor—coal mining and shipbuilding defined its legacy. These elements have forged an environment dense with stories of restless spirits and dark pasts. Exploring the haunted corners of Tyneside, from ancient battlegrounds to old dockyards cloaked in fog, the event sheds light on the region’s spectral inhabitants and the cultural beliefs surrounding them.
Icy Sedgwick’s background as the host of the Fabulous Folklore podcast and author of Rebel Folklore and Ghostlore brings an enriching depth to the experience. With a PhD focused on haunted house portrayals in contemporary cinema, Icy provides a scholarly yet accessible vantage point, making the tales as thought-provoking as they are spine-tingling. Her personal history as a ghost hunter lends authenticity to the narratives, inviting attendees to question what lies between history, myth, and the paranormal.
This one-hour immersive talk includes time for Q&A, allowing visitors to interact and uncover more about the ghostly folklore binding Tyneside’s past and present. Located in the accessible Harbottle Suite, this event welcomes anyone fascinated by the supernatural, local culture, or history.
Whether you’re a local history buff, paranormal adventurer, or simply seeking a unique evening out while visiting Newcastle, this event stands out as a singular glimpse into the eerie undercurrents running through the city. The Black Gate itself, an ancient gateway in the Newcastle Castle complex, anchors the experience in a site that has witnessed centuries of Tyneside life and legend.
Come prepared for an engrossing night of spine-chilling stories, rich historical insights, and the chance to engage with one of the UK’s foremost folklore voices. Tyneside’s haunted past awaits—just beyond the threshold.
easy.
1 hour.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels as this is a seated indoor event with no physical exertion required.
The event is primarily aimed at adults as the content involves ghost stories and folklore, which might be unsettling for young children.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at The Black Gate reception upon arrival, though early arrival is recommended to secure a seat.
Yes, the Harbottle Suite is accessible via lift to Floor 2 and is wheelchair friendly.
Absolutely. A Q&A session follows the main talk for visitors to engage with Icy Sedgwick directly.
The talk lasts approximately one hour, including the Q&A at the end.
Light refreshments can be purchased at the reception before the event begins.
Newcastle upon Tyne was founded by the Romans in AD 122, with the Black Gate serving as a fortified gateway since the 13th century.
Efforts are ongoing to preserve Newcastle’s historic structures, balancing public access with preservation of archaeological heritage.
Newcastle Castle is a historic Norman fortress in Newcastle upon Tyne that interprets the city’s medieval past through guided tours, special events and educational programmes. The site centres on a preserved Castle Keep and the adjacent Black Gate, offering visitors direct access to the architecture and stories that shaped the town. Newcastle Castle runs a programme of seasonal events, including theatrical performances, film screenings, themed talks and living history days, alongside regular Medieval Newcastle Tours and bookable school visits tailored to key stages. Visitors can purchase an Annual Pass Admission for unlimited visits across a year, or book single events such as mystery talks, horror screenings, family-friendly festivals and commemorative lectures. The venue hosts a range of ticketed experiences listed in advance, including author talks, Dungeons & Dragons–themed shows, historical lectures, horror screenings and community-focused activities during school holidays. Specialists and recognised guest speakers lead many talks and performances, while living history groups and performance companies contribute to reenactments and tournament days. For schools and groups, Newcastle Castle provides structured workshops, hands-on activities and guided tours that align with curriculum topics and local history learning outcomes. The site combines architectural interest with curated interpretation and a varied public events programme that appeals to families, students and history enthusiasts.
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