The 10 Most Haunted Places in the UK (With Real Ghost Stories)
From ancient castles and crumbling abbeys to eerie inns and lonely mansions, the UK is steeped in ghost stories. Whether you’re a sceptic, a believer, or just here for the thrills, these 10 famously haunted locations will send a chill down your spine — some of them you can even visit today.
1. The Tower of London, England
👻 Famous ghost: Anne Boleyn
🕰️ Date built: 1078
The Tower is infamous for executions, imprisonment, and centuries of ghost sightings. The most famous spirit is Anne Boleyn, beheaded in 1536 — often seen wandering near the chapel, holding her head.
A Fortress of Shadows and Souls
Since its formidable construction by William the Conqueror in 1078, the Tower of London has loomed over the city as a fortress, royal palace, prison, and a place of unspeakable horrors. Beneath its majestic stone towers and historic battlements lies a centuries-old legacy steeped in bloodshed, betrayal, and restless spirits. Few places in Britain have witnessed as much royal drama, political intrigue, and death—and perhaps that’s why it’s one of the most haunted sites in the UK.
Among the Tower’s long list of ghostly residents, Anne Boleyn reigns as its most famous and tragic spirit. Once Queen of England and the second wife of King Henry VIII, Anne was accused of adultery, incest, and treason in what many believe was a politically motivated sham trial. On May 19th, 1536, she was beheaded by a French swordsman on Tower Green, just steps from the royal chambers she once walked as queen.
Her spirit has never truly left.
Numerous witnesses over the centuries have claimed to see Anne’s headless ghost wandering near the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula, where her remains are buried beneath the stone floor. Others have reported her apparition drifting silently through the Tower’s shadowy corridors, often cradling her severed head in her arms, her expression mournful but composed.
Some even say she’s been seen in the White Tower, appearing in a ghostly procession of former queens, or standing by the window of the room she once occupied, gazing solemnly out onto Tower Green—the site of her execution. A few lucky (or unlucky) guards have described feeling a sudden chill in the air, followed by the soft swish of skirts or the overwhelming feeling of being watched.
Anne’s presence is more than just a ghost story—she’s a lingering echo of betrayal, injustice, and the dangerous game of Tudor politics. Her tale reminds us that even queens can lose their heads… and sometimes, they come back for them.
2. Pendle Hill, Lancashire
👻 Famous ghost: The Pendle Witches
🕰️ Witch trials: 1612
A hotspot for paranormal investigators, Pendle Hill is tied to one of the UK’s most notorious witch trials. Visitors report eerie sensations, ghostly figures on the slopes, and sudden cold winds.
Echoes of the Witch Trials
In the lush green expanse of Lancashire, Pendle Hill stands quietly above the countryside — but make no mistake, this unassuming landscape is soaked in centuries-old fear, folklore, and ghostly legends. It was here, in 1612, that one of England’s most infamous witch trials took place, ending in tragedy and earning the region a permanent place on the paranormal map.
The 1612 Pendle Witch Trials: A Haunting Legacy
It all began over 400 years ago, during a time when belief in the supernatural was as common as Sunday mass. Twelve people, mostly women from two local families — the Demdikes and the Chattoxes — were accused of witchcraft. The accusations stemmed from long-standing rivalries, religious paranoia, and a particularly fateful encounter at a local shop that sparked suspicion.
The accused were charged with causing deaths using witchcraft, consorting with the Devil, and even attending a witches’ sabbath on Good Friday. The youngest, Jennet Device, just nine years old, served as a key witness — even giving testimony against her own mother and brother.
After a sensational trial at Lancaster Castle, ten were found guilty and executed by hanging on August 20th, 1612. Their supposed crimes remain questionable to this day, and many now believe they were victims of fear, class discrimination, and religious fervour.
Paranormal Activity on Pendle Hill
The legacy of the Pendle Witches has never faded — and neither have their spirits, if local legends are to be believed. Pendle Hill is now one of the UK’s most notorious paranormal hotspots.
Visitors report:
- Sudden drops in temperature — even on warm days
- Apparitions of cloaked or shadowy figures
- The sound of chanting or whispering with no one in sight
- An overwhelming feeling of being followed or watched
- Disorientation or dizziness, especially near the summit
It’s not unusual for hikers to abruptly turn back, unable to shake the creeping sensation that someone—or something—is walking just behind them.
Planning Your Visit to Pendle Hill
Pendle Hill offers several scenic routes, but for those after the haunted history, we recommend the Pendle Witches Trail, which passes through key sites connected to the infamous trials, including:
- Malkin Tower (site of the alleged witches’ gathering)
- The village of Barley, where many of the accused lived
- Lancaster Castle, where the trials were held
🗺️ Trail Info & Maps:
Check out Visit Lancashire’s Pendle Hill Walks Guide for route suggestions, parking, and facilities.
3. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland
👻 Famous ghost: The Blue Boy
🕰️ Date built: 13th century
Known as the most haunted castle in Britain, Chillingham features everything from a “torture chamber” to numerous active spirits. The Blue Boy, often seen floating near the Pink Room, has been heard wailing through walls.
The Haunting of the Blue Boy
If you’re looking for ghosts, ghouls, and grim tales wrapped in stone walls, Chillingham Castle in Northumberland ticks every terrifying box. With origins dating back to the 13th century, this fortress has survived border wars, royal visits, and centuries of bloodshed. But what truly makes Chillingham famous isn’t just its history — it’s the sheer volume of ghost stories tied to its chilling halls.
Often dubbed “the most haunted castle in Britain”, this place doesn’t just look spooky — it feels it. From unexplained sounds to full-bodied apparitions, it’s a hotspot for paranormal activity and has attracted ghost hunters from around the world.
Meet the Blue Boy of the Pink Room
Among the many restless spirits said to haunt Chillingham, none are as infamous — or as eerie — as the “Blue Boy”.
For decades, guests staying in the castle’s Pink Room (yes, a real room you can book!) have reported a mysterious blue light emanating from the walls, followed by the unmistakable wailing cries of a child echoing through the chamber at midnight. Occasionally, witnesses claimed to see a pale, spectral boy dressed in a blue velvet doublet, gliding silently across the room before vanishing into a wall.
The story remained an unsettling mystery — until the 1920s, when renovations were underway in the castle. Builders broke through a thick section of wall behind the Pink Room and discovered something that shocked everyone: the skeleton of a young boy, buried alongside shards of blue fabric.
Was this the Blue Boy?
Many believe the discovery confirmed the legend. It’s thought the child may have been bricked up alive, perhaps as punishment or to hide a grim secret, and his anguished spirit remained tethered to the room where he perished. Since the remains were removed and given a proper burial, sightings of the Blue Boy have reportedly decreased — but he still makes the occasional spectral appearance, especially on stormy nights.
More Haunted Horrors Within the Castle Walls
The Blue Boy may be the castle’s star spectre, but he’s far from alone. Chillingham is packed with paranormal activity:
- The White Pantry Ghost – A shimmering female figure said to ask guests for water before vanishing. Legend says she may have been poisoned.
- Voices from the Chapel – Disembodied whispers and chanting are often heard in the medieval chapel, especially when it’s empty.
- The Torture Chamber – Yes, Chillingham has a real one. Inside, guests have reported sudden feelings of nausea, pain, or cold — as though reliving the suffering of those once imprisoned here.
- Cold Spots & Phantom Footsteps – Common in corridors, especially after dark.
Many visitors also report being touched, hearing their names whispered, or catching a glimpse of someone in period dress, only to turn and find no one there.
Castle History: Royal Roots & Bloody Battles
Chillingham wasn’t just a noble home — it was a fortified stronghold during the violent Anglo-Scottish border wars. In fact, King Edward I stayed here in 1298 while on his campaign against William Wallace. With centuries of soldiers, prisoners, and royals passing through its halls, it’s no wonder the castle feels like it’s bursting at the seams with spirits.
Over the centuries, it’s seen sieges, executions, and tragic deaths — all adding layers to its haunted reputation.
📍 Visiting Chillingham Castle
🎟️ Open to the public (seasonally), Chillingham Castle offers:
- Day tours
- After-dark ghost hunts
- Sleepovers in haunted rooms (yes, including the Pink Room!)
- A Torture Chamber exhibit featuring original medieval tools
🔗 Visit the official website for tickets, tour dates, and spooky sleepover options.
4. Pluckley Village, Kent
👻 Famous ghost: The Screaming Man
🕰️ First recorded hauntings: 1800s
Listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the most haunted village in England, Pluckley is home to over 12 known ghosts, including a monk, a schoolmaster, and a screaming man trapped in a brick wall.
England’s Most Haunted Village
Welcome to Pluckley, a picturesque village nestled in the rolling countryside of Kent — and officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the most haunted village in England. With reports of 12 to 14 resident ghosts, it’s not just a charming rural getaway; it’s a full-on supernatural hot spot that has been drawing ghost hunters and thrill-seekers for decades.
Despite its idyllic setting, Pluckley’s streets, pubs, and churchyards are said to echo with the residual energy of tragic deaths, ghostly apparitions, and mysterious phenomena that defy explanation. If you’ve ever wanted to stroll through a real-life haunted village, this might be your next creepy weekend adventure.
The Screaming Man of the Brickworks
One of Pluckley’s most bone-chilling tales involves a ghost known as The Screaming Man, believed to be the restless spirit of a local bricklayer. According to legend, this unfortunate soul met his end when a wall at the brickworks collapsed, burying him alive beneath tons of rubble.
His agonised screams were reportedly heard even after the dust settled — and they still echo today, especially near the old brickworks site along Pinnock Bridge. Passersby have reported hearing pained, guttural cries in the still air — with no living soul in sight.
Some say the man’s tragic death left behind such intense trauma that his spirit is caught in an eternal loop of his final moments, replaying them for centuries to come.
The Hanging Schoolmaster
Another of Pluckley’s famous phantoms is the sorrowful figure of a former schoolmaster, who was found hanged near the village’s now-disused school. Though details of his identity and death are scarce, many believe he took his own life following personal or professional ruin — possibly tied to unspoken scandal or heartbreak.
His ghost is often seen wandering aimlessly near Dicky Buss’s Lane, appearing in long coats with a gaunt face and hollow expression. Locals and paranormal investigators have both described moments where the atmosphere grows heavy and cold in that area, as though grief itself lingers in the air.
The Lady of Rose Court
In the hauntingly named Rose Court, another sad soul is said to roam. The Lady of Rose Court is believed to have lived in the 1100s, possibly during the Norman period, and her tale is one of heartbreak, betrayal, and death.
According to village lore, she was deeply in love — but with a man she could never have. In her despair, she reportedly poisoned herself beneath a yew tree in the courtyard of her home. Since then, her ghost has been spotted weeping near the site of her death or standing silently at windows, gazing into the distance as if searching for the lover she lost centuries ago.
She is often described as beautiful but sorrowful, dressed in period clothing, and surrounded by a faint floral scent — possibly the lingering perfume of her unfulfilled life.
Other Notable Hauntings in Pluckley
Pluckley’s ghost count doesn’t stop at three. Here’s a chilling roll call of other supernatural residents reported in the area:
- The Highwayman – Said to haunt Fright Corner, where he was fatally stabbed and pinned to a tree.
- The Monk of Greystones – A silent, hooded figure seen near a farmhouse, possibly a remnant of a religious past.
- The Miller of the Windmill – Thought to have died in a fire, he reportedly appears as a dark figure near the ruins of Pluckley Windmill.
- The Phantom Coach and Horses – An old-fashioned horse-drawn coach, seen and heard racing down Maltman’s Hill, only to vanish into the mist.
- The Watercress Woman – A ghostly figure who smoked her pipe beside the stream near The Pinnock, before tragically catching fire and dying.
With sightings going back generations, it’s no surprise Pluckley has become a bucket-list destination for ghost hunters from around the world.
📍 Visiting Pluckley: If You Dare…
Despite its haunted reputation, Pluckley is a beautiful place to visit — quaint cottages, winding country lanes, and yes, a serious chance of encountering something… unexplainable.
You can explore the village yourself, or join a guided ghost walk, which includes:
- Historical context
- Paranormal investigations
- Visits to known haunted sites
🔗 Check out Haunted Happenings’ Pluckley Ghost Tours for available dates.
5. Edinburgh Vaults, Scotland
👻 Famous ghost: Mr. Boots
🕰️ Built: Late 1700s
Beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge lie dark, damp vaults once used for storage, crime, and possibly murder. Tours often report sudden chills, EVPs, and a tall, angry spirit nicknamed “Mr. Boots.”
Echoes of Darkness Beneath the City
Under the charming cobbled streets and historic closes of Edinburgh, a darker world lies hidden — one filled with chilling echoes, shadowy figures, and centuries-old secrets. Welcome to the Blair Street Underground Vaults, one of the most haunted sites in Scotland and a must-visit for thrill-seekers, ghost hunters, and fans of the macabre.
Located beneath the city’s iconic South Bridge, these vaults were constructed in the late 18th century, around 1788, originally as storage spaces and work areas for the businesses operating above. But what began as a practical part of Edinburgh’s infrastructure quickly transformed into something far more sinister…
Life (and Death) in the Vaults
Initially, the vaults housed taverns, workshops, and storage rooms, catering to the city’s rapid industrial expansion. However, due to poor ventilation and frequent flooding, they were soon abandoned by respectable tradespeople.
By the early 19th century, the vaults had become the domain of the destitute, the criminal underworld, and allegedly, illegal activities such as body snatching, smuggling, and perhaps even murder. Some accounts suggest the infamous serial killers Burke and Hare may have lured victims through the vaults or disposed of bodies in the darkness.
Living conditions were horrendous — cramped, damp, and pitch-black — with families sometimes sharing space with livestock or criminals. Disease was rampant, and life was short. It’s no wonder that the residual energy left behind has given rise to some truly terrifying ghost stories.
The Haunting of “Mr. Boots”
Among the many spirits said to haunt the Blair Street Vaults, none is more infamous — or intimidating — than “Mr. Boots.”
This sinister spectre is described as a tall, shadowy man wearing worn-out boots and Victorian-style clothing. Visitors and tour guides alike report hearing his heavy footsteps echoing through the stone corridors — even when the vaults are otherwise empty.
Some say Mr. Boots was a murderer or enforcer who lived (and possibly died) within the vaults. His ominous presence is often accompanied by a sudden chill, and many have described an overwhelming sense of dread just before hearing his approach. In some terrifying cases, guests have reported seeing a dark figure lurking at the back of the vaults, glaring or lunging without warning.
And yes — he’s known to growl.
Other Paranormal Activity
While Mr. Boots gets the spotlight, the Blair Street Vaults are far from a one-ghost location. Reports of phantom whispers, children’s laughter, objects moving on their own, and unexplained temperature drops are common. Some guests have even left tours early, overwhelmed by dizziness, nausea, or sudden feelings of sadness or terror.
Common ghostly encounters include:
- A cobbler still working his long-abandoned workshop
- A child in ragged clothing, seen peering around corners
- Disembodied voices calling out names or crying
Paranormal investigators often bring EMF detectors and spirit boxes — and rarely leave empty-handed.
Visiting the Vaults Today
The Blair Street Vaults are accessible today via guided tours, which range from historical walks to full-on ghost hunting experiences. They’re operated by Mercat Tours, one of the most respected historical and paranormal tour companies in Edinburgh.
🔗 Book a Ghost Tour at the Vaults with Mercat Tours
Tour options include:
- Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour
- Evening Paranormal Experience
- Haunted Halloween Specials
Be warned: some vaults are so active that they’re only visited during select parts of the tour — and some guides refuse to go alone.
6. Borley Rectory, Essex
👻 Famous ghost: The Nun
🕰️ Built: 1862 (destroyed 1939)
Dubbed “the most haunted house in England”, Borley Rectory was plagued with apparitions, bells ringing on their own, writing on walls, and a nun seen gliding through locked doors.
England’s Most Haunted House That No Longer Exists
In the quiet countryside of Essex, nestled near the village of Borley, once stood a house so infamous for its spectral activity that it became known far and wide as “the most haunted house in England.” Though Borley Rectory was destroyed by fire in 1939, the legends and ghost stories associated with the site have endured — and continue to chill the bones of believers and sceptics alike.
Built in 1862 by the Reverend Henry Dawson Ellis Bull, the rectory was intended as a residence for the rector of the nearby St. Mary’s Church, along with his growing family. But from the very beginning, strange occurrences began to plague the house — footsteps with no source, whispered conversations in empty rooms, and ghostly figures gliding through the gardens.
The Nun of Borley: A Love Story Gone Tragically Wrong
The most enduring legend is that of the phantom nun, a sorrowful spirit said to wander the grounds at dusk, forever searching for her forbidden lover. According to local lore, a Benedictine monastery once stood near the rectory (though historians have debated this), where a young nun from a nearby convent fell in love with a monk from the order.
Their love, of course, was strictly forbidden. The story goes that they planned to elope, only to be discovered before they could escape. The monk was allegedly executed, and the nun was bricked up alive in the convent’s cellars — left to die alone, a grim punishment for her transgressions.
Though the monastery itself may be more myth than historical fact, the apparition of the nun has been reported by numerous witnesses since the late 1800s. She’s most commonly seen along what was once a gravel path, now dubbed “The Nun’s Walk,” often described as tall, veiled, and tragically beautiful, her figure glowing faintly as she glides through the mist.
Strange Happenings and Ghostly Phenomena
Over the decades, Borley Rectory was home to an alarming number of unexplained events, including:
- Unseen hands slapping residents
- Disembodied voices whispering names or prayers
- Cold spots and rooms that never warmed
- Messages scrawled on walls, allegedly in a child’s hand
- Objects vanishing or being hurled across the room
Things intensified when Reverend Lionel Foyster and his wife Marianne moved in during the 1930s. Their experience was so disturbing that Marianne began keeping a diary of events. She claimed to have seen a headless man, heard ringing bells and phantom footsteps, and even found herself physically attacked by unseen forces.
Enter Harry Price: Ghost Hunter Extraordinaire
In 1929, famed paranormal investigator Harry Price was invited to Borley to study the reports. A former magician turned ghost hunter, Price brought scientific instruments and psychic mediums, capturing what he claimed were definitive signs of paranormal activity.
He chronicled his findings in books such as The Most Haunted House in England (1940), which sparked both fascination and controversy. Critics accused Price of staging some events or being overly credulous, but the lore of Borley was now cemented in the public imagination.
Even after the house burned down in February 1939, the site remained active — many reporting ghost lights, shadowy figures among the ruins, and the nun’s apparition still walking as if unaware the building was gone.
The Mysterious Fire & Final Days
The blaze that destroyed Borley Rectory started under suspicious circumstances, and though officially declared accidental, some believe it was an attempt to put an end to the hauntings once and for all. It didn’t work.
After the fire, the remains were partially demolished, but the ghost sightings didn’t stop. Visitors to the site — and even some locals — still report:
- Strange lights at night
- Sudden feelings of dread
- Soft weeping in the distance
- Or even glimpses of the nun herself, moving silently among the trees
📍 Visiting Borley Today
While the rectory no longer stands, you can still visit the village of Borley and explore the surrounding area — especially St. Mary’s Church, which remains intact and is often included in local ghost walks.
There’s little left of the original rectory, but ghost enthusiasts still flock to the area — and some swear the energy is as intense as ever.
7. Berry Pomeroy Castle, Devon
👻 Famous ghost: The White Lady
🕰️ Built: 15th century
This romantic ruin hides dark secrets. The White Lady is said to be the tormented spirit of Lady Margaret Pomeroy, starved by her jealous sister in the dungeons. Strange mists and feelings of dread are common.
The Tragic Sisters of the Castle Ruins
Tucked away in a secluded wooded valley just outside Totnes, Devon, Berry Pomeroy Castle may look like a romantic ruin from a fairy tale — but behind its ivy-draped stone walls lurks a far more chilling story. Often hailed as one of the most haunted places in the West Country, this 15th-century fortress is steeped in tales of betrayal, death, and restless spirits.
Built in the late 15th century, the castle was begun by the wealthy Pomeroy family, Norman descendants who had held the land since the 11th century. Around 1547, it was purchased by the influential Seymour family, whose most famous member was Jane Seymour, third wife of Henry VIII. Though the castle was never fully completed, its history has been anything but quiet — especially in the ghostly sense.
The White Lady: Betrayal Between Sisters
The first of Berry Pomeroy’s spectral residents is the tragic White Lady, believed to be Lady Margaret Pomeroy.
According to legend, Margaret was imprisoned in the castle’s dungeons by her own sister, Eleanor Pomeroy, who was jealous of Margaret’s beauty and popularity — and possibly her claim to a family inheritance or a shared love interest. Margaret was allegedly locked in the cold, damp cells beneath the castle, where she slowly starved to death.
Today, her ghost is said to drift mournfully through the dungeons and along the ramparts, a silent figure dressed in white, exuding sadness and despair. Visitors report sudden chills, feelings of being watched, and strange flickers of light around the old cellars — all said to be signs that Lady Margaret still walks in search of justice… or peace.
The Blue Lady: A Darker, More Dangerous Spirit
If the White Lady is tragic, the Blue Lady is downright terrifying.
Her story is murkier but even more disturbing. She is believed to be the ghost of a woman from the Seymour family line, who became pregnant by her own father or another close relative. The resulting child was said to have been murdered shortly after birth, either in an act of shame or to cover up the scandal. Some legends say the child was thrown from a high tower, others say smothered — and it’s this unspeakable act that has bound the Blue Lady’s spirit to the site for eternity.
She is most often seen near a tall tower (now partially collapsed), where she is said to beckon visitors toward the edge. Some have described hearing whispers or crying, followed by an intense wave of nausea, dizziness, or dread. There are even reports of people being shoved while climbing the stairs, believed to be the Blue Lady herself trying to recreate her own fall — or that of her child.
Unlike the White Lady, who appears sad and silent, the Blue Lady’s presence is often described as malevolent and manipulative. Tour guides warn not to linger near her tower alone.
Modern Sightings & Paranormal Activity
Berry Pomeroy Castle has attracted ghost hunters, psychics, and paranormal investigators for decades. TV shows like Most Haunted and Ghostly Britain have filmed on location, and nearly all report some kind of unexplained activity.
Common reports include:
- Sudden drops in temperature (especially near the dungeon and tower)
- Disembodied whispers and sobs
- Camera and phone batteries draining unexpectedly
- A sense of “being followed” or “not being welcome”
- Light anomalies and shadow figures
Some brave souls even attempt overnight vigils, with mixed results. Many cut the night short after experiencing overwhelming feelings of fear, nausea, or being physically touched.
Visiting Berry Pomeroy Castle
Despite (or because of) its haunted reputation, Berry Pomeroy Castle is open to the public and managed by English Heritage. You can explore the ruins by day and dive into its storied past, complete with interpretive displays and audio guides that share both the historical and paranormal tales.
🎟️ Visit the official English Heritage site for opening times and tickets
The castle is typically open seasonally, with family-friendly tours by day and occasional paranormal events by night.
Final Thoughts
Berry Pomeroy Castle may appear peaceful under the Devonshire sun, but don’t let its picturesque exterior fool you — it is a place of sorrow, secrets, and lingering spirits. Whether you’re captivated by Tudor intrigue or curious about ghostly encounters, this castle offers a haunting experience you won’t soon forget.
But if you hear a whisper or see a woman in blue near the old tower… maybe don’t follow her.
8. The Skirrid Inn, Wales
👻 Famous ghost: Execution victims
🕰️ Inn established: 1110
One of the oldest pubs in Wales, The Skirrid Inn was once a courtroom where 180 people were hanged — allegedly from a beam still inside. Visitors report cold spots, moving glasses, and dark figures.
The Oldest Pub in Wales — and Possibly the Most Haunted
Nestled in the shadow of the Skirrid Mountain (known locally as the Holy Mountain) in Llanvihangel Crucorney, Monmouthshire, stands one of the most atmospheric and unsettling pubs in Britain. With a history that stretches back to 1110 AD, the Skirrid Inn proudly claims the title of the oldest public house in Wales — and it carries the heavy spiritual baggage to prove it.
From rebellious uprisings and courtroom executions to modern-day ghost hunts, this centuries-old inn has soaked up its share of blood, ale, and bone-chilling tales.
A Courtroom Above the Bar & Hangings in the Stairwell
What sets the Skirrid Inn apart from your average spooky pub? For starters, it once doubled as a courtroom during the Norman period. Justice was not only served here — it was executed, literally.
Historical records suggest that over 180 people were sentenced to death on the premises, many of whom were hanged from a beam above the main staircase. That very beam is still visible today, worn smooth in places, with a sinister notch said to be where the execution rope was tied.
It’s not hard to imagine the cries and clatter of wooden heels echoing through the stone walls as a sentence was passed, followed by the final silence when the trapdoor beneath the condemned fell open.
And if you’re feeling brave, you can stand beneath that very beam today — just mind your neck.
Paranormal Reports: Rope Burns, Cold Fingers & Flying Glasses
The Skirrid Inn’s reputation for paranormal activity is as legendary as its age. Both staff and guests alike have shared accounts of ghostly presences and poltergeist-like incidents, some even caught on camera or audio equipment by paranormal investigators.
Frequent reports include:
- Flickering lights with no electrical cause
- Swinging chandeliers in still air
- Glasses flying off shelves as if pushed by invisible hands
- Cold spots that move through rooms
- The sensation of someone breathing on your neck or hands gripping your shoulders
Perhaps the most unsettling story comes from a guest who stayed overnight in one of the rooms above the bar. He awoke in the morning to find red rope-like marks around his neck, as though he had been hanged in his sleep. Medical explanations failed to clarify it, and the man reportedly refused to return.
Even experienced ghost hunters have felt an oppressive atmosphere that builds throughout the evening — especially near the staircase, where executions were carried out.
Ties to Rebellion and Revenge
The Skirrid Inn’s ghostly energy may also be tied to violent times in Welsh history. The inn was allegedly used as a base during the Owain Glyndŵr uprising in the early 15th century — a Welsh rebellion against English rule. Locals say soldiers and rebels alike took shelter at the inn, some of whom never made it out alive.
Some ghosts said to linger include:
- A female spirit in Victorian garb, thought to be a former landlady
- A shadowy male figure pacing the upstairs courtroom
- The ghost of a hangman, described as tall, cold, and heavy-footed
- And even phantom monks, possibly tied to nearby Llanthony Priory
Visiting the Skirrid Inn Today
Despite (or perhaps because of) its terrifying tales, the Skirrid Inn is still a fully functioning pub and a popular destination for paranormal tours and ghost hunts.
🕰️ Opening Hours: Open daily (check ahead for seasonal hours)
🍽️ Full bar menu and traditional pub grub available
🛌 Rooms available for overnight stays — if you’re brave enough!
👻 Check out the official Skirrid Inn Facebook page for events and updates
Final Thoughts
The Skirrid Inn is the kind of place where history and horror collide. With a pint in one hand and goosebumps on your arms, it offers more than just a traditional pub experience — it’s a walk through centuries of folklore, fear, and phantoms.
So if you ever find yourself near Abergavenny and fancy a pint with a poltergeist, drop into the Skirrid. Just don’t sit near the stairs… and maybe don’t look up at that beam for too long.
9. Hampton Court Palace, London
👻 Famous ghost: Catherine Howard
🕰️ Built: 1515
Henry VIII’s fifth wife, Catherine Howard, is said to still run screaming down the “Haunted Gallery,” begging for mercy. CCTV once caught a ghost slamming a fire door shut.
Ghosts of Royalty and Restless Spirits
With over 500 years of royal history, Hampton Court Palace isn’t just a jaw-dropping showcase of Tudor and Baroque architecture — it’s also one of the most haunted buildings in London. Once home to King Henry VIII and his many (often doomed) wives, the palace echoes with tales of betrayal, heartbreak, and eerie apparitions that still wander its long, candlelit corridors.
If you think old palaces are just about tapestries and tea rooms, think again — Hampton Court has some serious supernatural street cred.
A Royal Past That Never Rested
Hampton Court Palace was originally built in 1514 by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor. But when Wolsey fell from favour, Henry seized the palace and made it his own — turning it into a lavish royal residence. Over the centuries, it housed some of England’s most iconic (and infamous) monarchs, including Elizabeth I, James I, and the Stuarts.
With such a long and dramatic history, it’s no wonder that ghost stories have become part of the palace’s DNA.
Ghosts of the Queens: Catherine Howard’s Terrifying Screams
Among Hampton Court’s many spectral tales, none is more famous (or frightening) than that of Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife.
In 1541, Catherine — just a teenager at the time — was accused of adultery. After being arrested, she reportedly escaped her guards and ran down the Haunted Gallery, screaming for Henry to spare her life. But her cries were ignored. She was beheaded at the Tower of London in 1542.
To this day, visitors and staff have reported hearing her desperate screams echoing through the same gallery. Others claim to have seen a pale, frantic woman in white, rushing toward the chapel — only to vanish into thin air.
Some even describe being overcome by a sudden sense of panic, cold, or dread while walking through that part of the palace.
The Grey Lady: Sibell Penn’s Eternal Rest Was Disturbed
Another long-time ghostly resident is the Grey Lady, thought to be Sibell Penn, a nurse to Prince Edward (later Edward VI) during the Tudor era.
Sibell died in 1562 and was buried in nearby St Mary’s Church. But during the 19th century, her grave was disturbed during church renovations, and shortly afterward, strange activity began inside the palace. Staff reported the sound of a spinning wheel in a sealed-off room, and when investigators broke through the wall, they discovered — chillingly — an old Tudor spinning wheel, covered in dust but still intact.
Ever since, her ghost — a stern-looking woman in grey Tudor dress — has been seen roaming the halls, often near the Clock Court or near the old nurse’s quarters.
The Haunted Mirror and Other Supernatural Sightings
There are dozens of lesser-known stories too. Visitors have spoken of:
- Cold spots and shadowy figures near the Chapel Royal
- A ghostly face in the window of the Great Hall
- Doors that slam on their own, often in empty corridors
- A haunted mirror in the Queen’s apartments, believed to reflect ghostly shapes
- Unexplained temperature drops and sudden wafts of perfume or smoke
In 2003, a security camera even captured footage of a mysterious figure in period robes slamming a fire door shut — a clip that made international news and still creeps people out today. The palace dubbed him “The Ghost in the Cloak.”
You can watch the footage here:
🔗 Hampton Court Ghost Video – BBC Archives
Visiting Hampton Court Palace
Whether you’re chasing ghosts or just want to soak in the splendour of royal history, Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit for London explorers.
🎟️ Book tickets and check tour info at the official Historic Royal Palaces site
Be sure to join one of the Haunted Tours or check the calendar for special ghost walks and evening events. The Haunted Gallery is open to the public — but be warned, not everyone makes it all the way through…
Final Thoughts
Hampton Court Palace may be filled with historic beauty, but its walls have heard screams, witnessed betrayals, and sheltered sorrowful spirits for centuries. Whether you’re in it for the royal intrigue or to feel the chill of a Tudor ghost brush past your shoulder, this palace is London’s premier paranormal playground.
So next time you’re in London, take a walk down the Haunted Gallery. And if you hear a girl screaming for mercy… well, you’re not the first.
10. Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire
👻 Famous ghost: Multiple demonic entities
🕰️ Built: 1145
This former pagan burial ground turned pub-turned-private residence is packed with ghostly claims — from child spirits to demonic shadows. Ghost hunters regularly claim strong energy and violent reactions here.
England’s Most Terrifying Haunted House?
If you’re looking for pure paranormal intensity, the kind of place that makes seasoned ghost hunters break into a cold sweat — look no further than the Ancient Ram Inn in Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire.
Dating back to 1145, this creaky old building has been called “the most haunted house in England”, and with good reason. With reports of poltergeist attacks, shadowy figures, demonic entities, and even ties to witchcraft and ancient pagan ritual sites, the Ancient Ram Inn is more than just your average spooky pub. It’s the stuff of nightmares.
A House Built on Darkness — Literally
The Ancient Ram Inn was constructed on land that was once a pagan burial ground, situated near Ley Lines — invisible lines believed by some to carry spiritual energy. One of these lines reportedly runs through Stonehenge, giving you an idea of how charged the land beneath the inn might be.
Originally built to house masons and slaves working on the nearby St. Mary’s Church, the inn later became a private residence. Over the centuries, it was associated with witch trials, child sacrifices, devil worship, and ritualistic activity — whether factual or exaggerated by folklore, the atmosphere inside is undeniably heavy.
Even today, visitors frequently report intense feelings of dread, nausea, or a deep desire to flee the premises. And some do… quickly.
Ghosts, Demons, and Disturbing Entities
The Ancient Ram Inn isn’t haunted by just one or two spirits — it’s allegedly teeming with them. Here are some of the most well-known:
The Witch
One of the inn’s most infamous entities is the so-called Witch, believed to be the spirit of a woman who was burned at the stake in the 1500s during the height of the English witch hunts. Her ghost is said to haunt the “Witch’s Room”, and visitors often feel sudden cold drafts, hear whispering voices, or feel as if someone is watching them from a dark corner.
The Crying Child
During renovations, the bones of a young child were reportedly discovered beneath the staircase, along with a broken dagger — believed by some to indicate a ritual sacrifice. Guests claim to hear disembodied cries, footsteps in the attic, or see small handprints appear on dusty windowpanes.
The Incubus & the Succubus
Yes, we’re going there. The Ancient Ram Inn is one of the few locations in the UK where people have claimed paranormal assaults by demonic forces, including alleged attacks by incubus and succubus spirits. Some visitors have reported waking up with scratches, bruises, or feeling pinned down during overnight stays.
The building’s long-term owner, John Humphries, who passed away in 2017, once claimed he was dragged across the room by an unseen force the very first night he moved in.
Paranormal Investigations & Media Coverage
The Ancient Ram Inn has been featured in dozens of paranormal documentaries and ghost-hunting TV shows, including:
- Most Haunted (UK)
- Ghost Adventures (US)
- Paranormal Lockdown
Each team came away with their own share of creepy audio, temperature anomalies, and “nope moments.”
In fact, many paranormal experts refuse to spend the night alone at the Ram Inn. Those who do usually leave with chilling tales — or sometimes without finishing the night at all.
Visiting the Ancient Ram Inn
📍 Location: Potters Pond, Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire GL12 7HF, UK
🕰️ The inn is now operated by the late owner’s daughter and is open by appointment only for ghost tours, paranormal events, and overnight investigations.
🎟️ Visit the official website or follow their Facebook Page for current tour dates, prices, and booking info.
Should You Visit?
The Ancient Ram Inn is not for the faint of heart. While it doesn’t serve food or drink anymore, what it offers is a direct line to some of the UK’s darkest paranormal energy. Whether you’re a hardcore ghost hunter or just curious, this is one of the creepiest and most spiritually charged places you can legally spend the night in the UK.
Just don’t forget your holy water — or your torch.
🎃 Final Thoughts
From plague-stricken villages to castle dungeons soaked in sorrow, these ten haunted places remind us that the UK’s history is more than just textbooks—it’s alive with whispers, footsteps, and lingering regrets.
If you’re feeling brave, why not plan a visit to one of these chilling locations? Just… maybe don’t go alone.
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💬 Share Your Experience
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