Dartmouth, Devon
The hotel is famous for its phantom coach haunting, believed to be a reenactment of Queen Mary's arrival/departure in 1688. Sounds of a horse-drawn carriage, invisible passengers, and a whip crack are heard, particularly at 2 am.
Queen Mary's Phantom Coach (horse-drawn carriage)
The Royal Castle Hotel is haunted by the sounds of a phantom horse-drawn carriage, believed to be a spectral reenactment of Queen Mary's departure from the hotel in 1688.
Built in 1639 (17th century), with evidence of earlier inn on site.
Inn and hotel.
A Grade II* listed hotel built in 1639, with evidence suggesting an earlier inn on the site where Sir Francis Drake reportedly stayed. The hotel has strong royal connections: many mistresses of Charles II stayed here, and in 1688, Queen Mary awaited William III at the hotel. Other famous guests include Queen Victoria, Edward VII, Cary Grant, and Agatha Christie. Features include a great winding wooden staircase and 46 antique spring bells.
17th-century historic hotel architecture, Grade II* listed. Notable for its winding wooden staircase and period features reflecting its long history overlooking Dartmouth Harbour.
Horse hooves heard crossing cobblestones at 2 am, carriage door opening and closing sounds, crack of whip heard, chimes of long-gone clock, horses whinnying as coach speeds away. Phantom coach arrival typically reported in autumn months.
Hotel courtyard and entrance area.
The source indicates these are recurring reported sounds, implying witness accounts from guests or staff over time, particularly relating to the 2 am phenomena.
No specific paranormal investigation history provided in the source material.
📅 Sample dates:2025-06-06 to 2025-06-08 • 2 adults
Dates and guest count can be changed on booking sites
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Paranormal Tip: Book rooms hotel courtyard and entrance area. for the best chance of supernatural encounters!
Three-star AA rated. Dog Friendly.
All rooms are only accessible by stairs, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Dartmouth is a historic port town; other old buildings may have local ghost stories. Dartmouth Castle is a significant nearby historic site.
Book your stay and experience Queen Mary's Phantom Coach and other supernatural activity firsthand. Many guests report paranormal encounters during their visits.