Visitors to Dover Castle over half term week are being advised not to go on their own – it’s so close to Halloween you really don’t know who you might bump into!

Nasty surprises will be in store around every corner from Saturday October 25 up to and including Halloween, Friday October 31 when horribly fun ghost tours will be on offer at what is reputed to be one of England’s most haunted castles.

Each day costumed characters – from an old hag to a wailing solider - will take families on hysterical tours offering tricks and treats galore as they take in many of the haunts of the castle’s famous phantom residents.

The 45-minute ghost tours begin from 11am each day, with the last tour starting at 4pm.

Young ghoulies, ghosties and short-legged beasties should dress to impress as a prize will be up for grabs during a Halloween costume competition each afternoon at 2.15pm in the Keep Yard.

Children can also take part in Halloween workshops where witches and wizards will help them create cat, bat or pumpkin masks and wicked witch and wizard hats using spooky sparkles, fabric, feathers and paints.

Dover Castle boasts no less than 12 areas on-site where spirits have been recorded.

These events are suitable for five to 10 year olds and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is £10.30 for adults, £8.20 for concessions and £5.20 for children. Family ticket price is £25.80. English Heritage members are admitted free.