Gilbert the Highwayman Haunting
On a stretch of road in Marden, Kent, a chilling re-enactment takes place every Christmas Eve. It's here that Gilbert, an eighteenth century highwayman, met his demise. He had attempted to rob a coach but was recognised by one of the occupants, a woman who had lost her brother to Gilbert's crimes. In a tragic turn of events, she stabbed him to death. This brutal killing drove the woman mad. Locals claim that on 24 December, the scene silently re-enacts itself, a haunting reminder of the highwayman's violent past.
Historical records confirm that Gilbert was a notorious highwayman who operated in the Kent area during the eighteenth century. His crimes eventually caught up with him on that fateful Christmas Eve when he tried to rob a coach. The occupant who killed him was reportedly consumed by grief and guilt, her actions a desperate response to her brother's death at Gilbert's hands. While there are no contemporary witness accounts of the haunting, the legend has persisted, with many believing that Gilbert's restless spirit relives his final moments every year.
Eighteenth century highway robbery and murder
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Ghostly Rider of Bearsted
Road leading to Pilgrim's Way, Bearsted
On the misty roads of Bearsted, a ghostly figure on horseback has been spotted by locals and travellers alike. This phantom rider, known for his large hat and shiny silver spurs, has been causing a stir for who-knows-how-long. Some claim to have struck up conversations with him, only to realise their mistake when he vanishes into thin air. It's said that the rider appears on the road leading to Pilgrim's Way, leaving many to wonder about the story behind this spectral equestrian.
The King's Head Ghost
King's Head Inn Inn, Sarre
The King's Head Inn in Sarre, Kent, has a long history of paranormal activity, but one ghost stands out from the rest - a mischievous spirit known as Charlie. This phantom, described as a bald, short man, was said to roam the inn's corridors in the early hours of the morning, pulling bedclothes from unsuspecting guests, tapping them on the shoulder, and creating eerie footsteps in empty parts of the building. Although Charlie wasn't often seen, his presence was certainly felt by those who stayed at the inn during the 1960s.
The Gardener of Thanet House
Thanet House, Thanet
Thanet House stands quietly in the Kentish town of Thanet, its stone walls bearing witness to a multitude of secrets over the years. Among these is the curious case of a dedicated gardener who has been spotted on multiple occasions standing on a stone bridge, intently watching the fish swim in the pool below. This seemingly mundane scene has taken on a surreal quality, as if time has paused to allow observers a glimpse of a bygone era. The gardener's presence is a gentle one, devoid of any malevolence, leaving onlookers with a sense of wonder rather than fear.
The Crying of Reculver
The Reculver Towers, Reculver
The Reculver Towers stand sentinel over the windswept coast of Kent, their crumbling stones bearing witness to a dark and troubled past. Folklore whispers of haunting cries, a baby's plaintive wails echoing through the ruins, sending shivers down the spines of those who dare to venture near. The source of these heartbreaking sounds remains a mystery, but the discovery of young children's skeletal remains in the 1960s provides a poignant clue. Dating back to around 270-300 AD, these tiny bones tell a tale of infant sacrifice, a gruesome practice thought to have been carried out to appease an unknown deity.
The Quentin Nightclub Ghost
on, Birchington
In the sleepy town of Birchington, Kent, a nightclub has been at the centre of paranormal activity. The trouble began in 1978 when the bar manager, working alone, heard the unmistakable sound of fingers clicking, followed by a low, raspy voice whispering 'come here'. This eerie incident was soon followed by reports of a blue outline forming the shape of a young man, who would come to be known as Quentin. It is thought that Quentin may have some connection to the building's past life as a drill hall.
The Grey Lady of Cleve Court
Cleve Court, Minster
Cleve Court in Minster is home to a rather poignant ghost story. This beautiful Kentish residence is said to be haunted by the spirit of a woman known as the Grey Lady. According to local legend, she was a kind soul who adored children but was cruelly denied the chance to have any of her own by her disapproving husband. He kept her locked away in a small room, effectively imprisoning her. It's said that only children can see her, while adults are limited to hearing her footsteps as she walks around.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Road to Hawkhurst

Woolpack Inn
Chilham, Kent

The Shurland Hotel
Eastchurch, Kent

Eastwell Manor
Boughton Lees, Kent