The Happy Man of Burgate
Burgate in Canterbury, Kent, is home to a rather unusual ghost story. A property along this road was once haunted by a phantom known as the Happy Man. Initially, his presence was marked by a sense of unhappiness, as he made himself frequently seen by the living. The nature of his haunting changed dramatically after a skeleton was discovered in the area. Following this find, the ghost's disposition took on a cheerier tone, earning him the nickname the Happy Man.
The discovery of a skeleton in the area seems to have been a pivotal moment in the haunting. Prior to this, the ghost was known for his unhappy demeanour. After the skeleton was found, the phantom's behaviour changed significantly. He began to be seen with a much cheerier disposition. This change in behaviour could suggest a connection between the ghost and the skeleton, possibly indicating that the ghost had found peace or resolution. The exact nature of the connection remains unclear, but it is a fascinating example of how paranormal activity can change over time.
The area has a rich history dating back to medieval times.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Canterbury Cathedral Gate Ghost
Cathedral Gate, Canterbury
Cathedral Gate in Canterbury is reportedly haunted by a ghostly presence. Visitors and locals have reported strange occurrences late at night, including slamming doors and ghostly singing or chanting. The exact nature of these events is unclear, but they contribute to the area's reputation for paranormal activity.
Nell Cook's Cathedral Ghost
Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury
Canterbury Cathedral, one of England's most iconic landmarks, is home to a multitude of ghostly legends. Among them is the tale of Nell Cook, a former servant who roams the hallowed halls in a state of eternal regret. According to historical accounts, Nell discovered his niece was having an affair with a canon, and in a fit of rage, he killed them both. This tragic event has left an indelible mark on the cathedral, with many claiming to have seen Nell's phantom figure wandering the grounds.
The Black Figure of Canterbury
Shop in The Parade, Canterbury
In the heart of Canterbury, a shop in The Parade has been at the centre of a mysterious haunting. A worker on the upper floor heard a rustling noise and turned to see a black, shadowy figure moving towards the kitchen. When they investigated, there was no one there. This eerie encounter wasn't an isolated incident; a cleaner had spotted the same shadowy figure a couple of years earlier. The sudden appearance and disappearance of this black figure has left many questions unanswered.
Canterbury Black Figure Haunting
Undisclosed shop along The Parade, Canterbury
In the heart of Canterbury, on The Parade, a shop has been at the centre of a bizarre and intriguing haunting. An employee reported that a customer had witnessed a black figure walk into and through a wall in the upper part of the shop. This strange occurrence took place in March 2011 and has left many questions about the nature of the figure and its intentions. The fact that the figure was seen walking through a wall suggests a high level of anomalous activity, which is characteristic of certain types of paranormal events.
Kent Countryside Leopard Sighting
Countryside around the area, Canterbury
The rolling hills and verdant fields of the Kent countryside were home to an unexpected inhabitant back in 1975. An escapee from Howletts Park, a leopard lived for eight months in the wild before being shot by a farmer. Locals were both fascinated and terrified by the presence of this exotic creature, which roamed freely through the countryside. Its elusive nature only added to the allure, with many wondering how it had adapted to its new surroundings.
Canterbury Haunting at Travelodge Hotel
Travelodge Canterbury Chaucer Central, Canterbury
The Travelodge Canterbury Chaucer Central has a reputation for paranormal activity. Guests have reported strange occurrences while staying in the hotel. Some claim to have been touched by cold fingers while sleeping, and others feel cold sensations on the stairs. Writing has even appeared on guests' mirrors. This is not an isolated incident; Micawbers, the adjacent accommodation used for staff housing, has also experienced paranormal activity.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Unnamed church residence along Burgate

Woolpack Inn
Chilham, Kent

Eastwell Manor
Boughton Lees, Kent

The Shurland Hotel
Eastchurch, Kent

The Chequers
Smarden, Kent