With Hallowe'en approaching, RACHEL LACY visits spooky corners of York.

IN WHAT is reputedly the most haunted city in the world, the problem isn't finding places for Hallowe'en, but deciding 'witch' to visit. Alongside the ghost cruise and the many ghost walks, tours of the cellar have started at the Treasurer's House, where Harry Martindale famously saw the Roman legionnaires.

St William's College, various pubs and even York Minster also lay claim to a ghost.

We decided to go for the ultimate experience for anyone who enjoys being scared silly: York Dungeon. We immediately hit a false start. My daughter Carol, despite numerous previous visits, didn't make it past the cash desk this time. The Wicked Women on the entrance staircase proved too much for her - and that was without Anne Robinson.

So I returned the next day and went round without her. I saw Boudicca saying unspeakable things to Romans while driving her chariot at full pelt.

Then it was on to Hallowe'en Horrors, which starts with a display on the beginnings of our present day celebrations, followed by live magic tricks, bearded ladies and trick or treating.

As the Dungeon continues to develop, every spare inch seems to contain something gruesome.

Another Hallowe'en treat is to be found just a short distance away from the Dungeon at the Castle Museum.

The Ghostly Goings On exhibition features stories throughout the day about the darker side of life at this former prison. Visitors can also create their own ghostly greeting cards and discover the superstitions behind "witch balls" - big ceramic balls which were once hung in windows as a way of warding off evil from the house.

Evening torch-lit tours of the 18th century prison building, accompanied by the keyholder, start tonight. Having been in the museum after hours and heard some of the stories, I can vouch for how eerie it is in those darkened streets and corridors. Who knows, something from 'the other side' may well join you in there.

Fact file:

York Dungeon

Open: seven days a week except Christmas day. October to March 10.30am-4.30pm (last admission), April to September 10am-5pm (last admission).

Address: 12 Clifford Street, York.

Disabled access: yes.

Tel: 01904 632599.

Website: www.thedungeons.com

Warning: not for those of a nervous disposition, no unaccompanied children under the age of 15.

York Castle Museum

Open: normal hours 10am-4pm, torchlit tours 6.45pm-8.45pm (tickets from the museum), Hallowe'en specials run until Sunday, November 2.

Address: Eye of York.

Disabled access: ground floor only due to nature of the building.

Tel: 01904 687687.

Website:

www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk

Updated: 08:54 Saturday, October 25, 2003