Long rumored to be haunted, Preston Castle in Ione is inviting thrill-seekers to explore its eerie halls this Halloween season.
The historic Gold Country landmark, once a reform school and now one of Northern California's most popular paranormal attractions, will open its doors for The Haunt on Oct. 9-10, 16-17 and 23-4.
Billed as a walkthrough haunted house adventure, the annual event transforms the castle's historic corridors into a chilling Halloween experience. Visitors can step inside the former reform school and wander haunted hallways where whispers of the past seem to echo through the stone walls. Organizers promise ghostly encounters, creeping shadows and scares around nearly every corner.
The event is open to all ages, though organizers
note some scenes may be too intense for younger children. Guests can choose between general admission and VIP fast-pass tickets. Tickets went on sale Sept. 9, with questions and ticket inquiries directed to ticketing@prestoncastle.org.
General admission tickets cost $37.45, while VIP fast-pass tickets are $50. Merchandise will also be available for sale. Proceeds support ongoing restoration efforts at the castle.
Parking is free and a shuttle will take guests from the lower parking lot to the castle at no charge. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://prestoncastle.org/events/the-haunt/.
The castle also hosts Public Paranormal Investigations and Paranormal 101 Nights throughout the year. For those less daring, Christmas-themed, country and wine events are held throughout the year. Visit https://prestoncastle.org/events/ to book your visit or photo shoot. The castle, at 900 Palm Drive in Ione, is also available for guided and self-guided tours. Visit prestoncastle.org to learn more.
What to know about Preston Castle
What is known today as Preston Castle closed in 1960, when the Preston Youth Authority moved into a new administration building, leaving vacant the towering structure that is a landmark in the Mother Lode.
The iconic castle fell victim to neglect, vandalism, and deterioration from weather and time before the Preston Castle Foundation launched an ambitious restoration effort to bring it back to life. The castle, an iconic Ione building 38 miles east of Stockton, celebrated its quasquicentennial, or 125th anniversary, in 2019.
Completed in 1894, the facility served as a reform-type institution for troubled youth. Prior to that, minors who were convicted of crimes were sent to San Quentin or Folsom prisons. In 1889 State Sen. Edward Preston introduced a bill that established the school, and in June 1894, the first seven wards were accepted.
The castle was closed when the state opened new facilities nearby. The building stood vacant for more than 40 years until the Preston Castle Foundation received ownership. Preston Castle is a California State Historic Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
This article originally appeared on The Record: Haunted castle near Stockton opens for Halloween tours
