Haunted Hosts

Ellenborough Park stands as one of the Cotswolds' most significant Tudor manor houses, with origins dating to approximately 1540. The estate takes its name from Edward Law, 1st Earl of Ellenborough, a prominent 19th century statesman who served as Lord Chief Justice of England and later as Governor-General of India. The property changed hands numerous times over the centuries, each owner leaving their mark on the building's architecture and grounds. During the early 20th century, the manor underwent a significant transformation when it was converted into a girls' boarding school. This period proved pivotal to the building's paranormal reputation. The school operated for several decades before the property transitioned once again. In the latter half of the 20th century, the building became the De La Bere Hotel, a name under which it operated for many years and during which time the most detailed accounts of supernatural activity were recorded. The De La Bere Hotel gained a reputation among paranormal enthusiasts and travellers seeking unusual accommodation experiences. The property was extensively restored and reopened as Ellenborough Park in 2011, marketed as a luxury country house hotel. The restoration preserved many original Tudor features whilst adding contemporary amenities. The hotel sits adjacent to the Cheltenham Racecourse, home of the famous Cheltenham Festival. The building's position within the Cotswolds means it shares the region's rich heritage of local folklore and ghost stories, including the well-documented 'Cheltenham Ghost' associated with Pittville Circus Road, one of Britain's most thoroughly investigated Victorian hauntings.