Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin (must see)

Next to the spooky-sounding Bully’s Acre cemetery (one of Dublin’s oldest) sits Kilmainham Gaol, a place that’s more than just bricks and bars – it’s steeped in Irish history and drama. Built back in 1796, this fortress of doom quickly became the go-to spot for locking up Irish rebels, including the big names from the 1916 Easter Rising who also faced executed right here.

Even after Ireland got its independence, this place kept churning out inmate after inmate until it finally closed its ominous doors in 1924, setting free its last guest, Éamon de Valera – who later became a big shot in Irish politics.

Take a tour if you dare, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to experience life in the slammer. The cells are so tiny, they practically force you into a one-on-one with yourself, and thanks to the limestone construction, you’ll be shivering in no time.

Before you get spooked out on the tour, swing by the exhibition halls for a taste of what’s to come. Downstairs, you’ll find a fake cell and an old-school mug-shot camera, while upstairs, it’s all about the fight for independence, complete with mementos, old-timey movie clips of Michael Collins, and even a letter ordering someone’s release.

Why You Should Visit:
Well, aside from the fact that you’ll get an earful of history from the tour guides and a chance to splurge on some reasonably-priced books at the gift shop, you’ll also get to warm up with a coffee and homemade cake in the cafeteria upstairs.

Tip:
Book your tour online ahead of time, because these spooky expeditions fill up faster than a cell on Saint Patrick’s Day. And remember, it’s cold in there, no matter the weather outside – so dress accordingly.