Christmas Crime Festival: The Legendary Ghost Tour

Dare you spend an evening in one of Bradford's most haunted buildings?

As darkness falls, step inside the atmospheric Victorian courtroom and police cells of The Bradford Police Museum for an unforgettable ghost tour brought to life by The Museum Players.

Guided by lantern light, you'll uncover the chilling legend of Chains Charlie, the infamous Victorian murderer said to haunt the old police station to this day.

Through live performances, dramatic witness testimonies and accounts from police officers, cleaners, security staff and visitors, you'll hear the stories that have fuelled decades of paranormal intrigue.

Journey from the grand Victorian courtroom into the original police cells, where history and mystery collide. Along the way, discover the real history of crime and punishment in Bradford, explore one of the city's most remarkable historic buildings after hours, and decide for yourself whether there is truth behind the legends.

Are the hauntings simply folklore… or is something still watching from the shadows?

Whether you're a sceptic or a believer, you'll leave with plenty to think about. After all… some say the old police cells never truly emptied.

Part of the Bradford Christmas Crime Festival 2026

Taking place from Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th December, the Bradford Christmas Crime Festival is a four-day celebration of crime, policing, history, mystery and storytelling, presented by The Bradford Police Museum.

Through a varied programme of historical talks, theatrical performances, ghost tours and festive family activities, the festival brings fascinating stories from the past to life within the remarkable surroundings of Bradford City Hall.

The Legendary Ghost Tour offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience the museum after dark, exploring its haunting history and the legends that continue to surround its historic walls.

About The Museum Players

The Museum Players are The Bradford Police Museum's volunteer performance group, bringing history to life through theatrical storytelling, character portrayals and immersive experiences.

Through live performances inspired by historical events, local legends and the stories connected to the museum, the group offers visitors a different way to engage with Bradford's past.

For The Legendary Ghost Tour, The Museum Players lead visitors on an atmospheric journey through the courtroom and former police cells, where historical storytelling meets the unexplained.

Event details

Date: Friday 4^th December 2026

Tour times:

• 6:30pm–7:30pm

• 7pm–8pm

• 7:30pm–8:30pm

Venue: The Bradford Police Museum

Tickets: £20 per person

Duration: Approximately 60 minutes

Age guidance: Suitable for ages 12+. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility & Important Visitor Information

This event takes place in the historic courtroom at Bradford City Hall, a Grade I-listed building that forms part of The Bradford Police Museum.

Accessibility

This is an atmospheric theatrical experience featuring dim lighting, eerie storytelling and moments of suspense, rather than jump scares or horror-style special effects. The tour involves walking and standing, including steep Victorian steps between the courtroom and original police cells.

Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the building and its current access arrangements, the courtroom is not accessible to wheelchair users or visitors with restricted mobility who are unable to manage these steps.

As the courtroom is situated within a historic building, it can also become quite cold and draughty during the winter months. We therefore recommend wearing warm, comfortable clothing during your visit.

Arrival & Facilities

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour time. Please note that there are no public toilet facilities available within The Bradford Police Museum. We recommend making use of nearby facilities before arriving.

Make the Most of Your Festival Experience!

As a thank you for joining us at the Bradford Christmas Crime Festival, we're offering ticket holders 50% off a guided tour of The Bradford Police Museum on Saturday 5th December 2026.

Discover more of Bradford's fascinating criminal past as one of our knowledgeable volunteer guides takes you through the original Victorian police cells and historic courtroom.

A promotional discount code will be provided with your booking confirmation, allowing you to book your guided tour at half the usual ticket price.

Guided tours must be booked separately and are subject to availability. The discount does not automatically reserve a place.

Questions or Additional Requirements?

We want all our visitors to feel informed and welcome. If you have any questions about accessibility or would like to discuss your individual requirements before booking, please contact The Bradford Police Museum, and we will be happy to provide further information.