Ten of the most haunted houses in the UK

The UK is full of supposedly haunted locations, and houses are no exception. Here are ten of the most haunted houses in the UK, steeped in history and paranormal lore:

1. Borley Rectory, Essex: Now just a grassy mound, Borley Rectory was once a Victorian mansion with a reputation as the most haunted house in England. Stories include sightings of a nun, a headless monk, and even writings on the walls that appeared and vanished. A fire in 1939 destroyed the house, but some believe the paranormal activity continues on the land.

    

2. Chillingham Castle, Northumberland: This medieval castle is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including a torture chamber spirit, a boy who fell from the battlements, and a playful presence known as the Radclyffe ghost. The castle even has a reputedly haunted room specifically for guests who seek a paranormal encounter.

    

3. Blickling Hall, Norfolk: This grand Jacobean mansion is said to be haunted by Anne Boleyn, one of King Henry VIII’s wives who was beheaded. Visitors have reported sightings of a headless woman, particularly around the anniversary of her execution.

    

4. Ballygally Castle, County Antrim, Northern Ireland: This 17th-century castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Isobel Shaw, who was murdered by her jealous husband. Visitors have reported cold spots, disembodied voices, and the feeling of being watched.

    

5. Ham House, Richmond upon Thames: This 17th-century mansion has a reputation for being haunted by the Duke and Duchess of Lauderdale, who built the house. Visitors have reported sightings of apparitions, disembodied voices, and the feeling of being touched.

    

6. Buckland Abbey, Devon: Founded as a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century, Buckland Abbey is said to be haunted by the monks who once resided there. Visitors have reported strange noises, disembodied chanting, and feelings of dread. The Abbey is now owned by the National Trust.

    

7. Treasurer’s House, York: This 14th-century house was once the residence of the treasurers of York Minster. It is said to be haunted by a former treasurer who embezzled funds and a young boy who died tragically. Visitors have reported cold spots, strange noises, and feelings of being watched.

    

8. Woodchester Mansion, Gloucestershire: This unfinished Gothic Revival mansion has a dark and fascinating history. It is said to be haunted by a number of spirits, including a murdered servant, a young boy who fell from a window, and a groundskeeper who died in a fire. The house is now a popular destination for ghost hunters.

    

9. Pluckley Village, Kent: Nicknamed “The Most Haunted Village in England,” Pluckley Village is said to be home to a dozen or more ghosts. These include a highwayman, a screaming woman, a lady in white, and a spectral coach and horses. While not a house itself, the village atmosphere is certainly spooky.

    

10. Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire: This 11th-century inn has a long and bloody history, and it’s no surprise that it is said to be haunted. The most famous ghost is believed to be a woman who was accused of witchcraft in the 1500s. Visitors have reported cold spots, strange noises, and feelings of being watched.