Do you believe in ghosts? Whether you do or don’t, there’s no doubt that haunted places have garnered a special interest to some people around the world. Cities like Edinburgh and New Orleans tend to get most of the attention, but here in Canada we have quite a few spooky places as well. So, if you are ready to go ghost hunting, add these spots to your list.
Ottawa Jail Hostel, Ottawa, Ontario
Haunted hotel rooms are common around the world, but Ottawa has one of the most unique haunted accommodations found not just in Canada, but in the world; a jail. While the jail cell bedroom is a unique experience itself, what makes this hostel extra creepy is the ghosts that are said to haunt it.
This hostel was once the Carleton County Gaol which opened in 1862. It served as a prison for over 100 years before it was shut down due to inhumane conditions. It is unknown just how many people died in those 100+ years in which the building operated as a jail, however, three executions did take place here before Canada abolished the death penalty. It is said that the victim of Canada’s last public execution, a man by the name of Patrick Whelan who may have been innocent of the crime for which he was killed, still haunts the jail today.
Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Alberta
The Fairmont name is associated with some of the most prestigious hotels in Canada, many of which are housed in luxurious and historic buildings. However, just because something is elegant doesn’t mean that it can’t be haunted, as is the case with the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
There are two known ghosts said to haunt the halls and rooms of this renowned hotel. The first is that of a young bride who, according to the tale, tripped on her wedding gown and fell to her death while descending the stairs. Guests have reported seeing a spectral bride on those stairs as well as in the ballroom. The second known spirit is that of a former bellman named Sam who passed away in 1975. Though his spirit still lingers and occasionally ‘helps out’ the new staff. These two ghosts are the best known in the hotel, but may not be the only ones. Hotel guests have reported that rooms 672 and 873 are also haunted.
The Keg Mansion, Toronto, Ontario
Would you dine with the dead? Well, you can at the Keg Mansion in Toronto. This classic steakhouse restaurant can be found in Euclid Hall, a heritage building that dates back to 1868. It was once a family home which, unsurprisingly, is how this ghost tale comes about though the details are a little fuzzy. What we do know is that the maid of the man who purchased the home hung herself, though there are two stories as to why. The first says she was distraught when the owner, Mr. Massey’s young daughter died. The second says she did it because she had an affair with Mr. Massey and was afraid it would be revealed.
While we don’t know exactly why the poor young maid decided to hang herself, we do know that she haunts the Keg Manor and several guests and staff have seen an apparition of the maid hanging by her neck.
Five Fishermen Restaurant, Halifax, Nova Scotia
The building that today houses the Five Fishermen Restaurant was once actually a funeral home by the name of John Snow & Co Funeral Home. On top of the normal funeral affairs this business covered on a day-to-day basis, it was also open during two major disasters: the sinking of the Titanic as well as the Halifax Explosion. Needless to say, it makes sense as to why this restaurant is now one of the most haunted places in Canada.
Staff have reported plenty of strange paranormal behaviours that take place at the Five Fishermen Restaurant, normally before opening or after closing. Common occurrences include taps turning themselves on, things being moved or knocked over, and apparitions appearing on the stairs.
Are you brave enough to visit, or even sleep, in any of these haunted places?