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 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 true 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 you'll 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?

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

What to Expect

Ghost Night is a guided theatrical experience lasting approximately 60 minutes, taking you through both the Victorian courtroom and the original police cells.

Your evening will include:

• A professionally performed immersive ghost tour led by The Museum Players.

• Live dramatic performances portraying historical figures and modern witnesses.

• The fascinating history of Bradford City Hall, its Victorian courtroom and former police station.

• Stories surrounding the infamous Chains Charlie and other reported paranormal encounters connected with the building based on research by former museum volunteer and police officer Les Vasey.

• Exclusive after-hours access to areas of the museum not usually experienced in the evening, including the original Victorian police cells.

• Opportunities to take photographs throughout most of the experience (with one historic cell excluded to protect the privacy of former detainees). 

Practical Information

• Please allow around 1 hour for your visit.

• The tour includes steep Victorian steps between the courtroom and the police cells. Unfortunately, due to the Grade listed nature of the building, this event is not wheelchair accessible.

• Visitors should wear comfortable footwear, as there are uneven floors and historic surfaces throughout the building.

• This is a walking and standing tour, although seating is available during the courtroom section.

• There are no public toilet facilities within the museum.

• Photography is welcome during most of the event, but video and audio recording are not permitted without prior permission. 

Is it Scary?

Ghost Night is designed to be atmospheric rather than terrifying. Expect dim lighting, eerie storytelling, theatrical performances and moments of suspense, but there are no jump scares or horror-style special effects. 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.