As the spooky season begins to creep upon us once again, one of the most haunted houses in Britain is open and ready to invite you in.

Thames-side Stuart mansion Ham House remained in one family for more than 300 years and is said to be haunted by Elizabeth, the Duchess, who spent the last few years of her life alone in the house and died in her bedchamber.

Ghostly tales will be uncovered through the history of Ham House, with the daring invited to visit the National Trust site by night.

Nighttime visits contain an exclusive after-hours ghost tour led by one of the house’s dramatic guides.

Visitors will start their evening experience with light refreshments in the Orangery, followed by an atmospheric tour in the house and gardens.

As ghost hunters wander through the darkened house, the scent of the rose petal perfume worn by Elizabeth may become apparent or visitors may hear her footsteps as she creeps up the great stairs.

The strong, stale smell of tobacco may also be smelled by those with truly heightened senses, as the ghost of the Duke enjoys his evening drink.

The ghost of the Duke and Duchess’s King Charles spaniel is also thought to scurry along the narrow corridors.

  • Ghost tours; Ham House and Gardens, Ham Street, Richmond; tour run on dates between October 25 and December 17, 7.30pm to 9pm; £22 including refreshments, not recommended for under 12s; call 0844 2491895 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house.