A new survey has found that 66 per cent of Londoners watch horror films to 'de-stress,' with 76 per cent using them as a 'form of escapism'.

The findings, revealed by brewery Beavertown in its recently commissioned survey of 2,000 Brits, highlight the capital's growing fascination with the horror genre.

The survey found that four in 10 Londoners watch horror films to 'cheer them up'.

The genre's popularity is on the rise, with nearly a quarter of Londoners (13 per cent) having discovered their love for horror within the last three years.

These 'enthusiasts' aren't just occasional watchers either — on average, Londoners consume 48 horror films a year, with viewership increasing by 66 per cent during October.

Beavertown is celebrating this nationwide obsession with its Halloween film series, kicking off with a 'Dead Carpet' event at Leicester Square's Prince Charles Cinema.

Horror icons like Dracula, Frankenstein and the Bride of Frankenstein paraded down the blood-red carpet, marking the launch of 'Beavertown Screamings' — a week-long marathon of horror classics from October 23 to 31.

The study also reveals the elements that keep horror fans coming back for more.

For 40 per cent of Londoners, it’s the thrill and suspense that make horror films so appealing, while 32 per cent can't get enough of the tension, and 23 per cent enjoy the storytelling and plot twists.

While 16 per cent enjoy the thrill of watching horror alone, nearly half (45 per cent) prefer the comfort of company to share the suspense.

As for what makes a 'great horror flick' for Londoners, psychological fear (51 per cent), creepy atmospheres (41 per cent), paranormal entities (29 per cent), and monsters (29 per cent) were the most popular elements.

In terms of all-time greatest horror films according to Londoners, The Exorcist (1973), The Conjuring (2013), Paranormal Activity (2007), The Evil Dead (1981), and Dracula (1958) topped the list.

After watching these chilling classics, 35 per cent of Londoners admit to 'feeling spooked — but in a way that leaves them wanting more.'

A Beavertown spokesperson said: "Halloween and horror have always been a huge part of our DNA and this year we wanted to take it to the next level by truly celebrating the nation’s love for all things spooky in cinema.

"With our special screening, we are combining that passion with immersive out-of-this-world experiences that bring horror to life in the best possible way."