Ghost of Mr Gutsell
The Queen's Head Public House in Icklesham is home to a rather unusual ghost story. A local hero named Mr Gutsell died and his coffin was brought to the pub for a wake, possibly setting in motion a chain of paranormal events. Since then, his ghost has reportedly been seen sitting by the fireplace, a spot that has become synonymous with his presence. It's said that Mr Gutsell's spirit has lingered, perhaps unable to move on from the place where friends and family gathered to pay their respects.
Historical records show that it was a common practice to hold wakes in local pubs, and in Mr Gutsell's case, it seems his coffin was brought to the Queen's Head, possibly as a mark of respect. The fact that his ghost is said to sit by the fireplace may suggest a connection to the warmth and camaraderie of the pub, a place where people came together to celebrate his life. While there's no concrete evidence to support the claims of paranormal activity, the story of Mr Gutsell's ghost has become an integral part of the pub's folklore, attracting those interested in the paranormal.
The Queen's Head Public House has been a local landmark for centuries, serving as a gathering place for the community
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Old Farmer Ghost
Queen's Head Hotel, Winchelsea
The Queen's Head Hotel in Winchelsea, Sussex, is home to a ghostly presence known as the Old Farmer. This former farmhouse turned public house and hotel has a long history dating back centuries, and it's said that the spirit of a farmer who lived there long ago still roams the premises. Some stories suggest that the ghost may actually be the shade of a former pub owner whose body was displayed in the bar as a mark of respect from his regulars.
Ghostly Soldier of Icklesham
Village pond, Icklesham
In the quaint village of Icklesham, a spine-tingling sight has been reported by locals and visitors alike - a soldier from the First World War gliding over the village pond. This eerie apparition, clad in a WWI uniform, seems to appear without warning, leaving onlookers with a lasting sense of unease. The pond, situated opposite the Robin Hood public house, is a tranquil spot, but the presence of this ghostly soldier disrupts the peaceful atmosphere.
The Shepherd of Gibbet's Marsh
Gibbet's Marsh, Rye
Gibbet's Marsh, a rural expanse near Rye in East Sussex, is home to a peculiar and unsettling haunting. In the still of the night, between midnight and 03:00, a lone figure is seen walking across the field, making his way towards the river. This apparition, dubbed the Shepherd, has been spotted on multiple occasions, leaving onlookers with a sense of intrigue and unease. The fact that these sightings occur during the early hours of the morning adds to the mystique, as if the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest during this time.
Brede Place Ghostly Apparitions
Brede Place, Brede
Brede Place, a stunning country house in Sussex, is said to be haunted by numerous ghostly apparitions. Among them is a benevolent spirit known as Father John. This location has a rich history of paranormal activity, with multiple spectres reportedly roaming the grounds. A former maid, who met a tragic end after being hanged for theft, has been seen by some. Others have spotted a headless man wandering around, and a woman dressed in Elizabethan attire. The most disturbing tale, however, is that of Sir Goddard, who was brutally sawn in half by angry villagers when it was discovered he had a dark secret: eating babies.
The Boy in a Sheet Haunting
Watchbell Street, Rye
Watchbell Street in Rye is home to a rather eerie presence - a little boy dressed in a white sheet. This ghostly apparition has been spotted wandering the street, although the exact circumstances of his appearances are shrouded in mystery. The street itself is quiet and unassuming, but locals and visitors alike have caught glimpses of the boy, leaving many to wonder about his story.
The Grey Woman of Brighton
Olde Cottage Tea Rooms, Brighton
Nestled in the quaint village of Rottingdean, the Olde Cottage Tea Rooms have been a beloved institution for generations. But amidst the warmth and hospitality, a chill runs down the spines of some staff members. A phantom grey woman has been spotted lurking in the garden, her presence as elusive as the wind. One former member of staff reported this eerie sighting, leaving us to wonder about the story behind this ghostly apparition.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Queen's Head Public House

The Mermaid Inn
Rye, East Sussex

Royal Victoria Hotel
St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex

The Chequers
Smarden, Kent