Historically, these three cottages were once a single house, which might explain why they share the same ghost. The haunting manifestations date back to the 1980s and 1990s, with multiple witnesses reporting similar experiences. The spirit seems to be benign, with no reports of malevolent activity. The fact that the ghost has been nicknamed Adrian suggests a level of familiarity and perhaps even affection from the residents.

The tale of the Dog Hunting Friar dates back to a time when the area was a hotbed of monastic activity. Friars, with their robes and apparent piety, were not always viewed with suspicion by the local population. However, this particular friar's actions were far from holy. His attempted assault on a young girl was thwarted by a brave dog, which suffered fatal wounds in the process. The dog's spirit, driven by a sense of justice, continues to haunt these rural landscapes. While there's no concrete evidence to pinpoint the exact date of the incident, the story has been passed down through generations, fuelling local folklore.

Circa seventh century AD, Etheldreda's life took a dramatic turn when she refused her husband's requests for intimacy after twelve years of a sexless marriage. This led to her establishing the monastery of Ely, which would go on to become a beacon of hope and spirituality for the community. Etheldreda's selfless act of kindness, using the milk from two does to alleviate the famine, has been passed down through the centuries, inspiring countless people to visit Ely and experience the town's rich history for themselves.

Historically, Etheldreda was a significant figure in Ely's past, and her legacy lives on through various local landmarks. The ghostly hand is not the only paranormal activity reported at Prior's House; a nun carrying a candle has also been spotted, and a ghostly priest was reportedly seen by his living counterpart. These sightings contribute to the house's reputation as a hub of paranormal activity, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the supernatural.

Built in the 17th century, Oliver Cromwell House has a rich history that's closely tied to the English Civil War. Oliver Cromwell himself was a frequent visitor to the house, which was once a private residence. Today, the house serves as the Tourist Information Centre, but that hasn't stopped the paranormal activity. Witnesses have reported strange occurrences, including the ghostly footsteps and apparitions. While we can't say for certain what's causing these events, it's clear that Oliver Cromwell House has a unique and fascinating history that's worth exploring.

Delving into the historical context, it's worth noting that Ely has a long and storied past, with the town's cathedral, the Ely Cathedral, being a prominent landmark and a hub of monastic activity in the past. It's possible that the ghostly monks are connected to this ecclesiastical heritage. The fact that these apparitions have been seen at various locations, including the High Street, suggests that they may be roaming the town, perhaps reenacting a centuries-old procession or simply going about their daily business. While the exact nature of these sightings remains unclear, they have been documented on multiple occasions, providing a fascinating glimpse into the paranormal activity that permeates this charming town.

Historical records confirm that Saint Withburga's body was indeed removed from her grave in East Dereham and brought to Ely, where it was eventually reburied in the cathedral. The ghostly procession is believed to reenact this journey, with the monks singing hymns as they transport the coffin. While there's no concrete evidence to support the existence of these ghostly apparitions, the story has become an integral part of Ely's folklore, captivating the imagination of locals and visitors alike. The haunting is weather-dependent, occurring on misty evenings when the atmosphere is most conducive to such a mystical experience.