Haunted Nova Scotia

From phantom ships and wandering spirits to legends and lore, we’re exploring Nova Scotia’s haunted history.

Pictou

Some residents have reported sightings of a phantom ship engulfed in flames sailing across in the Northumberland Strait before vanishing. While you wait for a ghost ship sighting, visit Hector Heritage Quay to learn the story of the Ship Hector‘s historic voyage from Scotland. Open May to October.

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

Some say the soldiers still guard the fortress to this day. Wander the fortress grounds during the low season, when the winding streets are eerily quiet. During peak season, book an overnight stay in the prison, guardhouse, or Lartigue House and listen for things that go bump in the night.

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Apparitions of the grey lady have spooked many a visitor and guard at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Take the candlelight ghost tour to find out more of the fort’s haunted past. Tours run until the end of October, but you can explore the grounds year-round.

Alexander Keith’s Brewery, Halifax

Take a spirited brewery tour to discover the story behind Halifax’s most famous brewery and sample one of its iconic brews. Keep an eye out for the ghost of Alexander himself.

Statue of Alexander Keith in Halifax, Nova Scotia — Alexander Keith's Nova Scotia Brewery

Lunenburg Academy, Lunenburg

Perched beside a centuries-old cemetery on Gallows Hill, this former school has inspired ghost stories for generations. Wander the colourful streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, to find the Academy at the top of Kaulbach Street. From May to October, join Lunenburg Walking Tours to uncover the town’s rich maritime history.

A tour group listens to a guide during Lunenburg Walking Tours in Nova Scotia — Lunenburg Walking Tours at Lunenburg Academy

York Redoubt National Historic Site, Halifax

Abandoned tunnels, coastal fog, and centuries of military history have inspired plenty of ghost stories at York Redoubt National Historic Site. Explore walking trails, historic fortifications, and sweeping ocean views while imagining the stories these walls could tell.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Halifax

Stroll through Grand Parade to visit this historic church, which has welcomed worshippers since 1750. While you’re there, catch a glimpse of the mysterious face in the window from Argyle Street said to have appeared after the Halifax Explosion.

A close up view of the face in the window at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Halifax, Nova Scotia — St. Paul's Anglican Church

Five Fishermen Restaurant, Halifax

Once a funeral home for victims of the Titanic and Halifax Explosion, staff still share stories of unexplained encounters at Five Fishermen Restaurant. Feast on seafood dishes sure to haunt your cravings. Need a side of local lore? Just ask your server.

exterior of Five Fisherment Restaurant in Halifax, Nova Scotia — Five Fishermen Restaurant

Peggy’s Cove

Legend says a woman in blue, possibly Peggy herself, wanders the shoreline searching for her lost love. If you dare to visit after dark, take extra care along the shoreline. Stay off the dark, slippery rocks at the water’s edge, and settle in on the viewing platform and wait to see if she decides to join you.

Amherst

In 1878, unexplained knocks, flying objects, and mysterious fires made Esther Cox’s home one of Canada’s most famous hauntings in Amherst. Plan a visit during EstherFest in October, an annual celebration of the paranormal. Stop by the Cumberland County Museum & Archives to learn more about the town’s history.

Cossit House Museum, Sydney

Visit from May to September to discover the history of Sydney’s oldest surviving house. Chat with costumed interpreters and keep an eye out for some of the home’s original inhabitants.

People standing outside Cossit House Museum in Sydney, Nova Scotia — Cossit House Museum

McNabs Island, Halifax Harbour

Abandoned forts, hidden graves, and the ghost of Peter McNab have inspired stories for generations. Book a private boat, water taxi, or charter from Halifax or Eastern Passage to explore this storied island. Visit mcnabsisland.ca for an interactive map.