Guillermo del Toro, director of films such as Shape of Water – The Secret of Water, HellboyAnd Pan’s Labyrinthis currently in Scotland. The director is on location to film the upcoming adaptation of Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel Frankenstein. He is currently staying in what he describes as an “old 19th century hotel” in Aberdeen. Del Toro is a lover of horror and the supernatural and always stays in the scariest rooms.
He shared all this information with his fans and followers on X while detailing his stay at the haunted house.
“I’m in the most haunted room of it, which was vacated this morning by one of our producers. Strange electrical and physical occurrences have frightened her into leaving as quickly as possible. Stay tuned – if anything happens, I’ll report.”
Although he didn’t reveal which hotel he stayed at, I’m sure it’s the Norwood Hall Hotel. The hotel is one of the most haunted places in Aberdeen. Built in 1881 on the site of a 15th-century castle, it is said to be haunted by at least three ghosts. The trio supposedly includes the property’s original owner, James Ogston, as well as his wife and mistress.
The property is a four-star hotel with 37 rooms. According to some TripAdvisor reviews, the most haunted room is Room 8 – again, there is no confirmation that this is actually the haunted hotel del Toro is talking about. But if it is, del Toro says the most haunted room is actually Room 4. Based on photos he shared of the room, it does indeed appear to be the Norwood Hall Hotel.
“I always stay in the ‘most haunted rooms’, but only once have I experienced anything supernatural – the rest of the time: nothing. I have high hopes,” del Toro’s thread continued.
Wherever he is, the ghostly atmosphere quickly becomes too intense even for a famous horror lover like del Toro.
“UPDATE. All I can say is nothing has happened yet but the atmosphere in the room is oppressive and I won’t be spending much more time there,” del Toro wrote. “It may be a suggestion but at this point I’ve kept it but am sleeping in a different room – I need 6 hours of sleep to have a good day of shooting – I’m in there early and late in the day – but something is with me in that room… If something happens or nothing happens, expect another update or two.”
If this intense haunting is actually taking place at the Norwood Hall Hotel, at least you can enjoy an estate with afternoon tea too, Mr. del Toro. Hopefully, wherever he is, the ghosts will let him get some sleep. I’m incredibly excited to see what he’s cooking up with Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac, so his rest is of the utmost importance to me as well.
Looking for more travel inspiration?
If you’re ready for an adventure but aren’t sure where to go or what to do, we’ve got you covered. The best new hotels opening around the world. The most exciting passport-free destinations. The world’s best beaches, as reviewed by travel influencers. You’ll find it all here, along with all the travel news you need to stay informed and inspired.
Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Þjórsárdalur, on facebook., PinterestAnd YouTube.
