Adventure brief
Ghostly Walks Route # 4 - James Bay & Bent Mast Tour
Step into Victoria’s haunted history with Discover the Past’s Ghostly Walks Route #4, a spine-tingling urban tour that unearths tales of ghosts, exorcisms, and haunted pubs in the city’s oldest neighborhoods.
Victoria, British Columbia, offers more than its stunning coastal views and vibrant gardens—it harbors a secretive past steeped in eerie stories and spectral encounters. Discover the Past, a local guide company dedicated to bringing Victoria’s lesser-known histories to life, offers the Ghostly Walks Route #4 - James Bay & Bent Mast Tour, an immersive walking experience that peels back the veil on the city’s most haunted neighborhoods. Starting from the iconic Visitor Information Centre at 812 Wharf Street, this one-hour journey winds through the shadows of Victoria’s historic heart.
The route passes landmarks rich with eerie tales, including the haunted cherry tree behind the Royal BC Museum and an old residence reputedly haunted by Sir James Douglas’s youngest daughter. Along the way, guests encounter chilling stories of exorcisms on Heather Street, the mysterious James Bay Inn where famous Canadian artist Emily Carr spent her final days, and a fortune teller whose crystal ball is said to foretell dark futures. The walk culminates at The Bent Mast, one of Victoria’s most haunted pubs, where the atmosphere thickens with whispered legends and lingering spirits.
What sets this ghost walk apart is its blend of walking tour, history lesson, and supernatural thrill—all delivered by knowledgeable guides who specialize in Victoria’s paranormal past. It’s a compelling way to see Victoria’s oldest heritage neighborhoods through a unique lens, combining outdoor urban adventure with local folklore. Whether you’re a history buff or a paranormal enthusiast, this tour is a standout offering in Victoria’s rich outdoor recreation and cultural scene.
Perfect for visitors wanting to venture beyond the usual sightseeing, the Ghostly Walks illuminate the city’s shadows with stories that are as chilling as they are captivating. Discover the Past’s dedication to authentic storytelling and local detail makes this a must-do for those who crave something different from the typical city stroll.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book Online in Advanceessential
Tickets must be purchased ahead of time online due to limited availability and group sizes.
- 02Wear Comfortable Walking Shoesinfo
The tour covers historic neighborhoods on foot, so sturdy shoes are recommended for pavement and uneven surfaces.
- 03Bring a Light Jacket or Sweaterinfo
Evening temperatures by the water can be cool; layering helps keep you comfortable during the walk.
- 04Prepare for Low-Light Conditionswarning
Portions of the walk occur after dark; bring a flashlight or use your phone light carefully during storytelling stops.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the historic neighborhood streets comfortably.
EssentialLight Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during cooler evenings and breezes along the waterfront.
fallEssentialFlashlight or Phone Light
Useful for low-light sections of the tour, ensuring safe footing and better viewing.
EssentialWater Bottle
Stay hydrated during warmer months while walking outdoors.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The haunted cherry tree behind the Royal BC Museum, Sir James Douglas’s historic family residence
Local fauna
Urban-adapted gulls frequent the waterfront areas, Occasional sightings of raccoons in residential neighborhoods
Historic heritage
Victoria is British Columbia’s oldest city with roots dating back to the mid-1800s, a period marked by colonial expansion and rich Indigenous history.
Mindful exploration
Tours like this promote awareness of heritage preservation by encouraging respectful visitation of historic districts and fostering community engagement in local history.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Outside the Empress Hotel, Royal BC Museum grounds, The Bent Mast pub entrance
- Subjects
- Historic architecture, Street scenes with atmospheric lighting, Unique details on heritage buildings
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early evening, Dusk
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Where does the Ghostly Walks Route #4 start?
The tour begins in front of the Visitor Information Centre at 812 Wharf Street, directly across from the Empress Hotel in Victoria.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 60 minutes, covering several historic and haunted landmarks on foot.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The content includes some mature themes and spooky stories, so it is recommended for children over 6 years old with parental discretion.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, tickets should be purchased online before the tour due to limited spots and high demand.
What should I wear for the tour?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on city streets, and dress in layers suitable for the weather at the time of year.
Can the tour route change?
Yes, temporary construction or city events may sometimes alter the exact walking path, but the historical and haunted highlights remain part of the experience.