There’s a chill in the air, and Sussex has plenty to send some additional shivers down your spine. With its rolling hills, ancient forests, and medieval towns, Sussex is a region rich in history – and tales of hauntings. Scattered across East and West Sussex are sites steeped in legend and mystery, where spectral figures are said to linger.
Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast or just love a good story, here are ten haunted places in Sussex you can visit, each with its own eerie atmosphere and special events that might just bring you face to face with the otherworldly.
1. Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle is a majestic fortress that has stood in West Sussex for over a thousand years. It is reputed to be one of the most haunted castles in England, with numerous spirits said to wander its halls. The most famous ghost is that of a young woman known as the “Blue Lady”, who is believed to have fallen to her death from a tower in the 17th century. Visitors have reported seeing her spectral figure in the library and the keep.
Arundel Castle hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including medieval reenactments, jousting tournaments, and even special Halloween tours where the castle’s haunted history takes centre stage. The combination of ancient architecture and ghostly legends makes these events particularly thrilling.
2. Michelham Priory
Michelham Priory, located in Hailsham, East Sussex, was founded in 1229 as an Augustinian priory. The site is now a museum, but its long history has left behind more than just artefacts. The ghost of a monk is said to roam the grounds, and visitors often report hearing footsteps, seeing shadowy figures, and feeling sudden chills.
The priory regularly hosts ghost hunts, where brave visitors can explore the building by candlelight, guided by paranormal investigators. Other events include historical reenactments and craft fairs, where you might catch a glimpse of the mysterious monk as you browse the stalls.
3. Herstmonceux Castle
Herstmonceux Castle is a stunning 15th century moated castle in Hailsham. Its grand architecture and beautiful gardens make it a popular venue for weddings, festivals, and medieval events. However, beneath its beauty lies a darker side. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman in white, believed to be the spirit of a maid who met a tragic end.
The castle hosts numerous events, including astronomy evenings (it is home to the Herstmonceux Observatory), medieval festivals, and open-air theatre performances. For those interested in the paranormal, ghost tours are also offered, providing an opportunity to explore the castle’s haunted history.
4. The Red Lion Inn
The Red Lion Inn in Shoreham-by-Sea is one of the oldest pubs in Sussex, dating back to the 16th century. It is reputedly haunted by several ghosts, including a cavalier soldier and a young girl. The inn’s cellar is said to be particularly active with paranormal occurrences, with objects moving on their own and strange noises echoing through the building.
The Red Lion hosts regular live music events and quiz nights, providing an opportunity to enjoy a pint in a truly historic – and haunted – setting. For those intrigued by its ghostly reputation, the pub occasionally offers ghost tours and paranormal investigation nights.
5. Hurstpierpoint College
Hurstpierpoint College, a private school in West Sussex, might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of haunted locations, but it has a chilling history. The ghost of a Victorian headmaster is said to haunt the school, appearing in his old office and in the chapel. Students and staff have reported unexplained footsteps and doors opening and closing on their own.
The college hosts a variety of public events, including concerts, drama performances, and open days. Attending one of these events might give you the chance to experience the eerie atmosphere of the school’s historic buildings.
6. The Mermaid Inn
The Mermaid Inn in Rye is one of the most famous haunted inns in England, with a history dating back to 1156. The inn is reputedly haunted by several ghosts, including the spirit of a duelist who appears in one of the rooms, and a maid who was murdered in the building centuries ago.
The Mermaid Inn regularly hosts special events, such as medieval banquets, wine tastings, and murder mystery nights. The inn also welcomes ghost hunters and offers accommodation for those brave enough to spend the night. If you do stay, you might just find yourself sharing your room with one of its many spectral residents.
7. Battle Abbey
Battle Abbey, founded by William the Conqueror on the site of the Battle of Hastings, is a place soaked in history and bloodshed. The battlefield and the abbey grounds are said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died in 1066. Ghostly apparitions, strange mists, and the sounds of battle have all been reported here.
The abbey hosts a variety of events, including reenactments of the Battle of Hastings, guided tours, and educational programs. During the Halloween season, special ghost tours are offered, giving visitors the chance to explore the abbey’s haunted past under the cover of darkness.
8. Preston Manor
Preston Manor in Brighton is a grand Edwardian house known for its paranormal activity. The manor is reputedly haunted by several spirits, including a lady in white, a servant boy, and a nun. The building has been the subject of many paranormal investigations, and visitors often report feeling cold spots, hearing unexplained noises, and seeing ghostly figures.
Preston Manor hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including historical tours, afternoon teas, and even wedding receptions. For those interested in its haunted history, the manor offers ghost tours and paranormal investigation nights, where you can explore its spooky reputation first-hand.
9. The Royal Oak
The Royal Oak in Poynings is a traditional country pub with a history stretching back over 500 years. It is said to be haunted by a former landlord who hanged himself in the 18th century. His ghost is said to appear in the bar and cellar, sometimes moving objects or creating cold drafts.
The pub is a popular venue for local events, including live music, quiz nights, and seasonal celebrations. It’s also a great place to enjoy a meal by the fire, with the possibility of a spectral encounter adding to the atmosphere.
10. Stanmer House
Stanmer House, a Grade I listed mansion in Stanmer Park, Brighton, is known for its beautiful architecture and haunted reputation. The house is said to be haunted by the ghost of a maid who tragically died in the 19th century. Visitors have reported seeing her figure in the windows and hearing strange noises in the night.
Stanmer House hosts a wide range of events, from weddings and private parties to public festivals and fairs. The house also offers ghost tours, especially around Halloween, where you can learn more about its eerie history and perhaps even encounter its resident ghost.
So, if you’re looking for a truly spine-tingling Halloween experience, Sussex has plenty to offer. From ancient castles to historic inns, these haunted locations provide a perfect backdrop for a spooky adventure. Just remember, you never know what – or who – you might encounter in these eerie places!
