Chatham's Ghostly Marine
The Old Royal Marine Barracks in Chatham, Kent, is home to a restless spirit that refuses to leave. Even after the Royal Marines vacated their former barracks in the 1950s, one of their number remained. A marine who had taken his own life couldn't shake off his ties to the place and was spotted by Naval personnel who took up residence in the building. His presence was a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served. The building may be gone, but the memory of this troubled marine lives on.
Built to serve as a guardroom, the section of the barracks where the marine took up residence has since been demolished. However, the legacy of his haunting remains. Historical records indicate that the marine's suicide was a tragic event that left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Witnesses reported seeing the marine's apparition, a poignant reminder of the human cost of military service. The haunting is a testament to the enduring bond between a soldier and his post.
The Royal Marine Barracks were an important military installation in Chatham, Kent, during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Glowing Eyes of Wichling
Wooded area and the church, Wichling
Deep in the heart of Kent, the rural village of Wichling is home to a mystifying phenomenon that has left many a visitor scratching their heads. It's said that on certain nights, a small, unassuming creature with glowing red eyes has been spotted darting around the churchyard and wooded areas. This eerie apparition was first reported in 2003 by a group of four friends who claimed to have seen the entity speed by them, its eyes aglow like embers. The group quickly made their exit after hearing a strange, high-pitched whistling and witnessing a fast-moving cloud cover the area.
The Ramhurst Manor Ghosts
Ramhurst Manor house, Leigh
Ramhurst Manor house in Leigh, Kent, is said to be haunted by the ghostly apparitions of Mr and Mrs Children. This eerie duo was reportedly heard talking and walking about the building back in the 1850s. They were said to stand by the front door, waiting to be released, according to a nineteenth century medium. Their presence was characterised by unexplained noises and conversations, which must have been quite unsettling for the occupants of the manor at the time.
Drowned Treasure Haunting
Mouth of the Themes, Queenborough
Out in the murky waters of the Thames, where the river meets the sea, a notorious spot has earned a reputation for paranormal activity. They say it was here that a ruthless captain, driven by greed, callously forced his passengers off their ship and into the churning waters, leaving them to a watery grave on the sandbanks. The location has since been plagued by strange occurrences - the water seems more turbulent than usual, and people claim to have heard mournful moaning sounds rising up from beneath the surface. Some even report catching glimpses of an otherworldly blue-green light flickering in the darkness.
Anne West's Haunting Bell
Great Bayhall Manor house, Pembury
Great Bayhall Manor house in Pembury, Kent, is said to be haunted by the restless spirit of Anne West. Anne had a rather unusual request when her time came - she feared being buried alive, so she asked that a bell be placed in her crypt. For several nights after her burial in 1803, the bell rang out, and her corpse was seen walking down the road towards her former home. This chilling apparition continued to haunt the area for many years afterwards, leaving a lasting legacy of fear and fascination.
Theatre Royal Ghost Humphrey
Theatre Royal, Chatham
Theatre Royal in Chatham, Kent, has a rather charming ghostly inhabitant named Humphrey. He's been known to sit and watch shows here in the mid-twentieth century, and his behaviour is quite peculiar. If he enjoys the performance, he'll stick around, but if he's not impressed, he'll walk out. It's almost as if he's a discerning theatre-goer, and his presence has been acknowledged by many. Humphrey also has a mischievous streak, often lowering seating just before someone is about to sit down, which can be quite startling.
Dode Village Child Ghost
Lost village of Dode, Great Buckland
The lost village of Dode lies shrouded in mystery and tragedy. Once a thriving community, it was brutally decimated by the Black Death, leaving only the church standing as a haunting reminder of what once was. Today, the church and surrounding area are said to be haunted by the ghost of a child. The folklore surrounding this haunting is sparse, but it adds to the eerie atmosphere that pervades this abandoned site. As you explore the ruins, you can't help but feel a sense of sadness and loss that lingers in the air.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Old Royal Marine Barracks

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire

Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent