UK’s ‘most welcoming city’ also voted one of the most haunted

A Cheshire village has earned the title of the United Kingdom’s most welcoming city – despite also being ranked one of the most haunted.

Booking.com has praised Chester for its “strong sense of community” and “mysterious past” in its annual Traveller Review Awards.

The awards are based on feedback from customers who have used the online platform to book accommodation, car rentals or taxis.

Meanwhile, 2,000 people who believe in ghosts ranked Chester as the UK's most haunted city, with 15 per cent of respondents casting their vote for the Cheshire destination.

Other cities ranked among the most haunted in the UK were York, Edinburgh, Bath, and Glasgow.

The survey revealed a growing interest in haunted travel experiences. More than 40 per cent of those polled expressed a willingness to stay in haunted accommodations, with nearly 20 per cent actively seeking out such experiences.

Meanwhile, 38 per cent of respondents said they would find the presence of a friendly spirit in their hotel room reassuring.

Chester caters to this intrigue with a variety of historic hotels and tours marketed for their haunted history.

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Establishments like The Pied Bull and experiences like the Dark Chester Tour, which delves into tales of witches, plagues, and poltergeists, offer visitors a glimpse into the city's spectral side.

Booking.com regional manager Ryan Pearson said: “Chester is a city that perfectly blends warmth and history, making it one of the most welcoming destinations in the UK.

“With its charming, cobbled streets, historic architecture and a strong sense of community, it’s no surprise that visitors feel at home.

“But beyond its friendly atmosphere, Chester also has a rich and mysterious past, earning it a reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the country.”

The survey was carried out by research company OnePoll in February.