Houghton Conquest, Bedfordshire
The Knife & Cleaver has a documented paranormal incident involving supernatural manipulation of objects. According to the Paranormal Database, a barman experienced unexplained phenomena when the bookings diary began turning its pages by itself. As he watched in bewilderment, a strange disembodied hand appeared over his shoulder, causing him to flee the area immediately. This incident suggests poltergeist-like activity or an intelligent haunting capable of physical interaction with the environment.
Unknown entity or poltergeist presence causing physical manifestations
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.
18th century building with origins as The Butcher's Arms
Traditional village inn and public house serving local community
Historic 18th-century inn originally known as 'The Butcher's Arms' before becoming The Knife & Cleaver. Parish records show Leon Cuthbert, described as both butcher and publican, was buried on 21st December 1761, connecting the pub's name to its original trade associations. The building faces All Saints Church, the largest parish church in Bedfordshire, creating a quintessential English village setting. The inn served generations of locals and travelers, maintaining its role as a community gathering place while evolving into a modern gastropub with accommodation.
Traditional 18th-century English village inn architecture with later renovations maintaining period character while adding contemporary comfort. The building retains traditional pub features including exposed beams and period fixtures, recently enhanced with modern boutique-style accommodations and dining facilities.
The documented incident involves classic poltergeist phenomena - the spontaneous movement of objects (book pages) and brief physical manifestations (the mysterious hand). While this is the only formally recorded event, such dramatic supernatural activity often indicates ongoing but less noticeable phenomena that may go unreported by staff or guests.
The area where the bookings diary incident occurred appears to be the primary supernatural hotspot, likely near the bar or front desk area where reservations would be managed. The age and history of the main inn building suggest this would be in the traditional pub section rather than newer accommodation areas.
The barman's experience is documented in paranormal databases, though additional witness accounts are not widely publicized. Staff at historic pubs often experience unexplained phenomena but may not always report incidents due to professional concerns or skepticism from management.
The incident is recorded in the official Paranormal Database for Bedfordshire, indicating it has been catalogued by paranormal researchers. However, there's no evidence of formal investigations or TV coverage. The pub's focus on hospitality rather than paranormal tourism suggests management may not actively promote ghost hunting activities.
📅 Sample dates:2025-06-06 to 2025-06-08 • 2 adults
Dates and guest count can be changed on booking sites
💰 Affiliate Disclosure: We earn a commission from some bookings at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Paranormal Tip: Book rooms the area where the bookings diary incident occurred appears to be the primary supernatural hotspot for the best chance of supernatural encounters!
Address:
The Grove, Houghton Conquest, Bedford, MK45 3LA
Phone: +44 1234 930789
Status: Operating (gastropub with accommodation)
The pub focuses on dining and accommodation packages rather than paranormal themes. Offers romantic getaway packages, dining experiences, and event hosting. The beautiful village setting and high-quality restaurant make it popular for special occasions.
Free on-site parking available. Ground floor restaurant and bar areas are accessible, though guest rooms may require stair access typical of historic buildings. The pub can accommodate some accessibility needs with advance notice.
The village of Houghton Conquest has rich history that may harbor additional ghost stories. All Saints Church directly opposite has centuries of history that could include supernatural tales. The broader Bedfordshire area includes other documented haunted locations within driving distance.
Book your stay and experience The Knife & Cleaver Entity and other supernatural activity firsthand. Many guests report paranormal encounters during their visits.