Victorian Children's Apparitions
Castleton Activity Centre in Derbyshire is known for its stunning surroundings and outdoor pursuits, but one visitor experienced something rather unusual back in July 2002. They awoke in their room to find two Victorian children standing over their bed, a boy and a girl, both staring intently at the wall on the other side of the room. The visitor was then drawn into a trance-like state, moving across the room to place their hand on a large, bluish wavy mass that had appeared on the wall, just above where a friend was sleeping.
The historical context of this haunting is intriguing, given that the activity centre is situated in a picturesque village with a rich history dating back to the medieval period. While there's no direct evidence linking the centre to specific historical events or former occupants, the apparitions' Victorian attire suggests a possible connection to the era. The witness's experience was interrupted by their friend's voice, snapping them out of the trance-like state. This remarkable account remains one of the most compelling experiences reported at the centre.
The village of Castleton has a rich history dating back to the medieval period.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Grey Lady of Denleen
Denleen Separates Ltd, Ilkeston
Denleen Separates Ltd on Primrose Street in Ilkeston has been the site of a curious haunting. Every morning at 08:00, several witnesses have reported seeing a grey woman in a long flowing dress running towards the staircase, only to vanish into thin air. The woman's appearance is fleeting but unmistakable, leaving onlookers with a lasting impression. This ghostly apparition has been a part of the building's history since 1972.
Dronfield Manor House Hotel Ghost Apparition
The Manor House Hotel, Dronfield
The Manor House Hotel in Dronfield is said to be haunted by the ghost of an elderly lady. Her apparition has been spotted by numerous people, who describe her as a woman around 70 years old with tied-back hair and long skirts. Witnesses claim to feel her presence, sometimes feeling a gentle touch or a clingy sensation on their arms. Some also report seeing her move small items or kitchen utensils around the hotel.
Derby Marching Soldiers Haunting
Hair salon, Derby
In the heart of Derby, on Sadler Gate, a hair salon has been at the centre of a bizarre paranormal claim. The owner has reported hearing the unmistakable sound of marching soldiers within the shop. This eerie phenomenon has left many wondering about its connection to the local history. Legend has it that secret tunnels run from the area to the nearby cathedral, sparking speculation about a possible link between the haunting and Derby's rich past.
Ilkeston's Mysterious Feline Encounter
Bridge Street, Ilkeston
Bridge Street in Ilkeston can be a pretty ordinary place, but on one fateful night it was the setting for a rather unusual encounter. A man was out walking his dog just after midnight on 29 May 2025 when he came across a large black cat that stood around waist-high. The surprising thing was that when he reported this to a police officer he met on his way home, the officer couldn't find any sign of the cat. It's not clear what this feline was or where it came from, but it's definitely a story that's got people talking.
Lord on Horseback Haunting
Shipley Hall, Marlpool
Shipley Hall, a now ruined mansion in Marlpool, Derbyshire, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner who rides around the area on horseback. The hall's history is shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain - its grounds have been witness to some strange occurrences. In the 1940s and 1950s, several people reported seeing a lion roaming the area, although no physical evidence was ever found. Was it a phantom feline or a wild animal that had escaped from a nearby zoo? The truth remains unknown.
Prior Henry's Abbey Ghost
Area around the ruined abbey, Dale Abbey
Dale Abbey, a ruined monastic site in Derbyshire, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Prior Henry. According to local legend, Prior Henry was involved in a counterfeiting ring and, upon being discovered, took his own life. This tragic event supposedly doomed him to roam the former abbey grounds for eternity. People have reported hearing plainchant in the area, adding to the eerie atmosphere of this historic site.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Activity centre in the area
