Understanding This Spirit Type
A 'noisy ghost' known for physical disturbances like moving objects or unexplained sounds.
The term 'poltergeist' comes from German, meaning 'noisy ghost' or 'rumble ghost.' This type of haunting is characterised by physical manifestations rather than necessarily visual ones. Common poltergeist activities include unexplained noises (knocks, bangs, footsteps), objects being moved, thrown, or hidden, doors and windows opening or closing on their own, and lights or electronic devices malfunctioning. While sometimes associated with a specific spirit, poltergeist phenomena are occasionally theorised to be linked to the subconscious psychokinetic energy of a living person, often an adolescent, under stress (Recurrent Spontaneous Psychokinesis - RSPK). However, many cases are attributed to mischievous or troubled spirits.
The Knife & Cleaver
An unknown supernatural entity at The Knife & Cleaver demonstrated its presence through poltergeist activity, manipulating a reservations diary and manifesting a disembodied hand that appeared over a startled barman's shoulder.
Lamb Hotel
An unseen entity of unknown identity that occupies the inn.
Hamlet Hotels Maidstone
Charlotte is the primary apparition at Larkfield Priory, believed to be a young maid who died tragically in the late 19th century. She is known for her sorrowful sobbing and poltergeist-like tantrums, such as smashing glasses, especially when disturbed by changes or noise in the hotel. Her presence is a key part of the hotel's haunted lore.
The Shurland Hotel
"Fred" is the nickname for the unseen entity causing electrical and door disturbances at The Shurland Hotel. Not an apparition, Fred is known by his playful but persistent deeds, like flipping light switches and unlocking doors, especially in Rooms 1 and 2. Staff sometimes politely ask Fred to stop, suggesting an intelligent haunt.
Scole Inn Hotel
Emma, brutally murdered by her jealous husband in the 1750s after false accusations of adultery, appears as the White Lady of Scole, still seeking to prove her innocence and find peace.
The Angel Hotel
Mrs. Goodhew is believed to be the spirit of a 19th-century landlady who lovingly watches over The Angel Hotel. She manifests as unexplained sounds, gentle knocks, and occasional brief sightings.
The Angel Hotel
A peculiar haunting at The Angel in Lavenham involves a rocking chair by the fireplace that reportedly moves on its own, attributed to a gentle, unseen spirit.
The Swan Hotel and Spa
A peculiar and playful ghostly manifestation at The Swan involves guests reporting their feet being tickled in the night, an act attributed to a mischievous spirit, possibly the Grey Lady.
The Black Lion (Long Melford)
Minor, harmless pranks like moved items or mysteriously filled bathtubs at The Black Lion are attributed to a playful, unseen spirit, adding a touch of whimsy to its hauntings.
Seckford Hall Hotel and Spa
The spirit of Sir Thomas Seckford, the Tudor founder of Seckford Hall, is believed to still roam his beloved home, overseeing its affairs with a dignified and sometimes stern presence.