By Michella Dos Santos ©
Northamptonshire, a county steeped in history and charm, holds more than picturesque landscapes and ancient architecture within its borders. It is also home to many ghostly tales and haunted places that are sure to send shivers down your spine. Whether you're a ghost hunter or simply curious about the supernatural, Northamptonshire has a few eerie experiences waiting to be explored. Join us as we delve into the history and spooky stories in some of the county's most haunted locations.
Delapré Abbey:
History: Delapré Abbey, a stunning former monastery and country house, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. During World War II, it served as a military hospital, caring for wounded soldiers.
Spooky Story: Visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences, from mysterious whispers to apparitions of nurses in old-fashioned uniforms. Some say the spirits of soldiers and nuns still linger within the abbey's walls.
The Old Black Lion, Northampton
History: This historic pub in Northampton has a history dating back centuries. The pub burnt down in the great Northampton fire of 1675 but was restored as the Old Black Lion in 1720.
It has sadly been empty since 2018 but is now being restored.
**Check out Facebook for the archaeological dig and ongoing works to restore this historic pub and inn.
Spooky Story: Past Guests and staff have shared stories of unexplained footsteps, doors mysteriously opening and closing, and the feeling of being watched by an unseen presence. Some believe it's the spirit of a former innkeeper who refuses to leave.
St. Crispin's Hospital (Berrywood Hospital)
History: St. Crispin's Hospital, formerly known as Berrywood Hospital, has a long history dating back to the 1870s. Initially a psychiatric hospital, it has witnessed many years of medical treatments.
Spooky Story: Over the years, reports of eerie sounds, mysterious apparitions, and inexplicable occurrences have surrounded the hospital. Some say they've seen the ghostly figures of former patients wandering the halls, while others have heard faint, unsettling whispers echoing in the abandoned wards.
Althorp House
History: Althorp House, the ancestral home of the Spencer family, is known for its grandeur and extensive art collection.
Spooky Story: The library at Althorp is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former librarian. Visitors have reported an eerie presence, as if unseen eyes follow their every move, and they've even heard the faint but unmistakable sound of pages rustling when no one else is around. Now, that's what you call a true bookworm - of the maggot variety!
Canons Ashby
History: Canons Ashby is a beautiful Elizabethan manor house surrounded by picturesque 18th-century gardens. It's a great family day out, so be sure to visit!
Spooky Story: Legend has it that the ghost of a "Grey Lady" wanders the halls, and strange, inexplicable noises have been heard by visitors exploring the historic house. However, it's unclear whether it's her skin or attire that is grey. If you see her, let me know!
Abington Park Museum
History: It has a unique history, having been used as a rural medieval farm manor house, country house, asylum and lately a well-established museum.
Spooky Story: Many visitors have reported ghostly encounters in the museum. The apparition of a lady in Victorian clothing is a common sighting, and some have heard the faint sound of children's laughter echoing through the empty halls. Now... I can verify this one. A family friend visited the museum a couple of decades ago. At the time, you could walk up to the horse carriage (when I visited, it was behind glass). As our friend tilted her head to see under the carriage canopy, a young woman suddenly appeared, casually sitting on the carriage seat. She believes she wore Victorian attire as she recalls embroidery around her neck. And then, a couple of seconds later, the woman disappeared! It's fair to say our family friend ran out, never to return.
The Charles Bradlaugh Pub:
History: This charming pub is named after Charles Bradlaugh and is known for its historical significance and classic British pub atmosphere.
Spooky Story: Patrons and employees have recounted strange occurrences such as objects moving on their own, unexplained cold spots, and sightings of a shadowy figure resembling Charles Bradlaugh himself. The pub's cellar is rumoured to be a hotspot for paranormal activity.
Wig & Pen
The Wig & Pen is a renowned pub steeped in history and mystery. It was originally known as The Plasterer's Arms and served as a café before transforming into a pub in 1720. The pub's rooms were often frequented by actors from the theatre, and it gained fame for hosting Quoits matches in its garden. One of its most notable landlords was Mr. Edward Shadrack Dunkley. Affectionately known as Teddy Dunkley, he was a prominent figure in the St. James' Rugby Club, which later evolved into the Northampton Saints in 1880. Teddy served as the captain of the Saints in 1888, concluding his rugby career with them in 1901, after which he assumed the role of landlord at The Black Lion, a position he held for an impressive 44 years.
Now, onto a chilling story: One of Northampton's most-told tales revolves around a tragic incident in 1892. Annie Pritchard, who had recently relocated from Birmingham, became entangled with Andrew MacRae, a man employed by his brother in the bacon-selling trade at Market Square. This unassuming warehouse would eventually become the setting for a gruesome crime, as MacRae brutally murdered Annie Pritchard. Shockingly, it is believed that he also took the life of her infant child, although the baby's remains were never recovered. Disturbingly, accounts suggest that Annie's head, arms, and the baby's body met a gruesome fate, being boiled within the brother's premises.
The discovery of Annie Pritchard's torso and legs, concealed in an old sack near Althorp Railway Station on August 27th, 1892, marked a horrifying revelation. Andrew MacRae was convicted of this horrific crime and met his fate at Northampton Gaol on January 10th, 1893, when he was executed.
However, the ghost of Annie Pritchard continues to roam, haunting the premises of the Wig & Pen. There have been reports from patrons and visitors alike describing eerie occurrences, such as the sound of an infant's crying emanating from the pub's back wall.
Despite the wheels of justice turning and Andrew MacRae facing the consequences of his actions, the restless spirit of Annie Pritchard lingers, forever intertwined with the history of the Wig & Pen.
For more details on this chilling case, you can refer to the article published in The New York Times on November 18th, 1892: [New York Times Article]
Happy Ghost Hunting!
Northamptonshire's haunted places offer a unique blend of history and spine-tingling tales. Whether you believe in the supernatural, are a ghost hunter, or even a sceptic, these locations provide a fascinating glimpse into the county's rich past. So, why not gather your friends and family for a chilling adventure through these haunted sites? Just remember to bring your courage and an open mind as you explore the mysteries that await in Northamptonshire.
Plan your visit, watch for the unexplained, and who knows, you might just have your own ghostly encounter this Halloween!
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