Young Planners Walking Tour: Ghostly and Macabre Guided Tour
Step into the darker side of Bury St Edmunds with the East of England Young Planners’ Ghostly and Macabre Guided Tour. This atmospheric evening walk invites you to explore the town after dusk, uncovering its hidden history through spine‑chilling tales of murder, witchcraft, plague, and restless spirits.
Led by expert local guides, the tour blends rich heritage with dramatic storytelling, taking you through historic streets and into some of the town’s most eerie locations. It’s a unique opportunity to experience Bury St Edmunds from a completely different perspective while enjoying a relaxed and memorable networking event with fellow professionals.
What to expect:
- A 90‑minute guided walking tour through the historic centre of Bury St Edmunds after dark
- Engaging storytelling covering ghost sightings, executions, and local legends
- Visits to atmospheric locations including Moyse’s Hall, ancient streets, and the Abbey grounds
- Chilling tales of the town’s most famous spirits, including the Grey Lady
- A small group setting designed for an immersive and interactive experience
- A sociable, informal event combining networking with a memorable shared experience
Please note: The tour includes dark themes and uneven walking routes, so comfortable footwear and appropriate clothing are recommended. Suitable for ages 18+
What you'll gain:
- Gain a deeper understanding of historic urban environments and how heritage, storytelling, and identity shape places like Bury St Edmunds
- Develop insight into local history, conservation, and cultural context, all of which are key considerations in planning and development
- Experience the built environment from a different perspective, helping to build greater appreciation of place, character, and atmosphere
- Learn how narrative and perception influence public engagement with spaces, useful when communicating planning proposals
- Network with fellow professionals in a relaxed and informal setting, strengthening connections across the industry
- Share experiences and ideas with peers, supporting knowledge exchange and professional development
- Participate in a memorable, engaging event that combines learning, social interaction, and unique local insight
Recommended for planning professionals, early‑career planners, and built environment specialists interested in heritage, place‑making, and informal networking within the industry.
Getting to the venue
The tour will meet outside Marks & Spencer, Buttermarket, Bury St Edmunds.
By train: Bury St Edmunds railway station is approximately a 15–20 minute walk from the meeting point.
By bus: The town centre is well served by local bus routes, with stops located just a short walk from the Buttermarket area.
By car: There are several car parks nearby, including Ram Meadow Car Park and Arc Shopping Centre Car Park, both within easy walking distance.
By taxi: Taxis can drop you off close to the Buttermarket, just a short distance from the meeting point.
Before you set off, it’s worth checking for any updates, such as roadworks or travel delays, which may affect your journey.
Access and inclusion
We're committed to making sure everyone has a great experience at our events. Once you've booked, we'll get in touch to talk through any access needs or requirements you might have. If you have any questions in the meantime, just contact Fay Benton – we're here to help.
Tickets
We offer free tickets for carers and have a limited number of free or discounted tickets for those working in the public sector, students and those on low income/unemployed. Contact us to check availability.
If you wish to make a group booking, please contact Fay Benton.
Food and refreshments
Please note that no food or refreshments will be provided during this event. We recommend bringing your own drinks or snacks with you if required.
