Haunted Hosts

The most dramatic ghost at Eastwell Manor is a spectral rider seen galloping across the estate's grounds before plunging into the lake and vanishing. Local folklore connects this phantom to Richard Plantagenet, the documented illegitimate son of Richard III who lived and died at Eastwell under an assumed identity. The horseman's desperate charge suggests he is eternally reliving the fateful night that changed the course of English history.

A translucent female figure in flowing white or pearl-grey robes haunts the corridors and chambers of Eastwell Manor. This melancholy apparition, believed by some to be connected to Eleanor Cobham, Duchess of Gloucester, or another noblewoman from the estate's illustrious past, drifts through the manor with quiet dignity. She manifests most frequently near windows and along the principal staircase, as though eternally watching over the ancient halls where royalty once resided.

Charlotte is the primary apparition at Larkfield Priory, a young maidservant whose tragic love affair with a groundsman led to her untimely death in the 18th or 19th century. Pregnant and unmarried - an unforgivable sin in that era - she died either from suicide after losing her baby or from complications following a botched abortion. Her sorrowful sobbing and poltergeist-like activity reflect her ongoing grief and unresolved trauma.

Beyond Charlotte's gentle weeping, guests report encounters with a more disturbing male presence at Hamlet Hotels Maidstone. This restless spirit manifests through oppressive atmospheres, disembodied footsteps, and occasional sounds of distress, possibly connected to the violent history of the 1648 Battle of Maidstone or the county gallows that once stood on nearby Penenden Heath.

A distinctly unpleasant and angry male spirit haunts the Long Gallery at Hever Castle. Known for his disapproving demeanour and violent outbursts, this ghost stomps around, grunts in disgust, bangs on walls, and slams doors with considerable force.

One of England's most famous ghosts, Anne Boleyn's spirit at Hever is often described as peaceful, wandering her childhood home with a sweet smile, especially at Christmas. Rarer sightings depict her headless. She doesn't interact directly but evokes sorrow or nostalgia, reliving her youth.

The spirit of George Boleyn, Anne's beloved brother who was executed alongside her, is said to remain at Hever Castle as a protective presence. Identified by medium Rob Gutro in 2013, George's spirit appears to watch over his ancestral home and his sister's memory.

A ghostly horse has been sighted galloping through the Long Gallery at Hever Castle, its hoofbeats echoing through the ancient corridors. This spectral steed appears as a magnificent but translucent animal, possibly connected to the castle's Tudor past.

A spectral black Labrador-like dog with curly fur, the Black Dog of Leeds is a famous omen. Its appearance is said to herald misfortune or death, a legend tied to Eleanor of Gloucester's imprisonment for witchcraft. Though rarely seen, its legend is a cornerstone of the castle's haunting.

The elegant spirit of Lady Olive Baillie, the 20th-century heiress who restored Leeds Castle, is said to gently roam her beloved home. Seen in 1930s evening wear, often in the library where she died, her presence is warm and protective, as if still hosting or ensuring all is in order. She is not a frightening ghost.

A classic castle ghost, the White Lady of Leeds is a mysterious female figure in a white dress, possibly a medieval queen like Joan of Navarre or another noblewoman who met a tragic end. Sighted near the Maiden’s Tower or by the moat, she exudes sadness and vanishes if approached, adding a romantic, tragic flavor to the castle's hauntings.

A benevolent ghostly black dog, Labrador-sized, roams the ancient inn's corridors. Unlike the fearsome black dogs of British folklore, this friendly spirit nudges guests affectionately, brushes past their legs, and settles warmly on their beds. Likely the echo of a beloved coaching inn dog from the hotel's bustling past.

A tall male ghost, often seen in a frilled shirt, cape, and boots, or as an early 1800s gentleman. Distinguished by the strong smell of cigar or pipe tobacco that heralds his presence. Generally benign, he might be linked to the Civil War or Richard Trevithick. He sometimes tips his hat or raises an ethereal glass.

Winifred, the spirit of an 8-year-old girl, is the hotel's most famous ghost. Dressed in an old-fashioned frock, she's known for her playful yet temperamental nature, hiding items and smashing glasses if ignored. Staff treat her as part of the family, and her portrait is said to calm her.

A restless French prisoner of war from the Napoleonic era who moves small items around the premises and unsettles animals. His activity peaks during late spring and appears to be his way of making his presence known to the living.

An apparition of a distinguished man in 1700s attire: green velvet frock coat, ruffled cravat, and a tri-corner hat. He appears engaged in writing or lounging, possibly the infamous Dick Turpin or a Georgian squire. He never interacts, simply vanishing if approached, suggesting a residual presence.

The spirit of a young military officer from the early 19th century, often seen in a red coat with a grievous wound. He projects sorrow and is usually silent, possibly looking for justice or a stolen locket. His presence is melancholic rather than threatening, often felt intensely in 'Room 6'.

Meet 'Fred,' the infamous prankster poltergeist of The Shurland Hotel. From flipping light switches in Room 1 to unlocking doors in Room 2, this unseen entity's playful yet persistent antics have been documented for years, making him the hotel's most notorious spectral resident.

A rarely sighted apparition of a figure in a dark, hooded robe, seen for a few seconds near the back stairs of The Shurland Hotel. Believed to be a residual haunting, possibly linked to Eastchurch's medieval priory history. This monk does not interact and is considered a fleeting, atmospheric presence.

A young girl, around 7 or 8 years old, has been seen standing at the foot of a bed in The Shurland Hotel. This sad, silent apparition is one of the hotel's more poignant and mysterious hauntings, her story lost to time.

In January 1947, a witness observed a large, spectral black hound bounding towards an ancient burial barrow opposite the Woolpack Inn on Pilgrim's Way, where it promptly vanished. This sighting represents a classic example of the Black Shuck phenomenon that has haunted Kent and East Anglia for centuries.

The Woolpack Inn's most famous spirit is the Grey Lady, an elegant, shadowy female apparition in a long grey gown. Often seen in corridors or guest rooms, she is considered a calm and friendly presence, sometimes tidying items or gently touching a shoulder. Her identity remains a mystery, but she is a beloved guardian spirit of this 600-year-old Grade II listed inn.