Skip to main content

Pilling Poltergeist Knocking

Agricultural Hostel, Pilling, Lancashire Poltergeist Post-War

In the quiet Lancashire village of Pilling, a most unusual and unexplained phenomenon took place at the local Agricultural Hostel back in February 1948. It started with the sound of wind, even on nights when the weather was calm and still, signalling the arrival of a noisy spirit. This spirit, identified as a poltergeist, would then make its presence known by rapping four times on the wooden walls at regular intervals. The sounds were so distinct and rhythmic that they couldnt be mistaken for anything natural.

Further adding to the mystique of this haunting were reports of an occupant's guitar strings being plucked by an unseen hand. This particular detail suggests a level of interaction or perhaps even malevolence from the spirit, though its intentions remain unclear. The fact that these events occurred in a hostel, a place typically associated with rest and tranquillity, adds a layer of intrigue to the story. Unfortunately, as the location is likely no longer operational, further investigation or verification of these claims is not possible.

Historical Context

The hostel likely served as accommodation for agricultural workers.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Agricultural Hostel
Activity Types
Audio
Witness Credibility
Multiple Witnesses
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
No Public Access
Date / Era
February 1948
Postcode Area
FY

Nearby Haunted Places

Unknown 1.9 mi

The Army Cat of Preesall

Lane, Preesall

In the quiet lanes of Preesall, a strange entity has been spotted, taking the form of a cat wearing a red military uniform. This bizarre apparition, dubbed the Army Cat, has left many to wonder about its origins and purpose. The lane where it was seen is now long gone, but the legend lives on, a fascinating footnote in the annals of Lancashire's paranormal history.

Rural Lane Victorian
Read Full Story
Fairy 2.8 mi

The Hall Knocker Fairy

Stalmine, Poulton le Fylde

In the quaint village of Stalmine, a most unusual entity was once said to reside. The Hall Knocker, a type of fairy, was known to lend a helping hand to local farmers with their more mundane tasks. This benevolent being was eventually contained under a stone in the local church, where it remains to this day. The Hall Knocker's presence was a welcome one, as it took some of the burden off the farmers' shoulders, allowing them to focus on more pressing matters.

Church Pre-Victorian
Read Full Story
Legend 2.9 mi

The Devil's Cockerham Haunting

River Cocker and surrounding area, Cockerham

In the quaint village of Cockerham, Lancashire, a most unusual legend has been etched into local folklore. The story goes that the Devil himself once decided to make this picturesque spot his new home, settling on the banks of River Cocker. But little did Old Nick know, a cunning schoolteacher was about to foil his plans. With a clever trick, the schoolteacher convinced the Devil to try and make a rope from sand, which would supposedly withstand the river's waters. It was a clever ruse, and one that would ultimately drive the Devil away from his would-be abode.

Rural Area Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 3.2 mi

Muttering Yokel of Olde Rock

Olde Rock House, Barton on Irwell

Olde Rock House in Barton on Irwell seems like an unassuming place but it holds a secret. A royalist, fleeing from his Cromwellian pursuers, once disguised himself as a farmer and walked about the area muttering 'Now thus, now thus', until the roundheads had passed. Locals believe that his shade still re-enacts his escape, reliving that anxious time when his life depended on staying hidden. It's a strange and intriguing tale that has become part of the house's folklore.

Historic House English Civil War
Read Full Story
Apparition 3.4 mi

Friendly Ghost Cat of Hambleton

Sower Carr Lane, Hambleton

In the quiet village of Hambleton, a rather unusual ghost has been making waves. This invisible, large and friendly cat has been known to freak people out as it rubs itself on their legs, trying to show affection. It's a strange sensation, to say the least, but one that's certainly memorable. Imagine walking down Sower Carr Lane when suddenly you feel a gentle nudge against your leg - only to turn and find no cat in sight.

Residential Area Victorian
Read Full Story
Fairy 3.5 mi

Helpful Horse Boggart

Hackensall Hall, Fleetwood

Hackensall Hall in Fleetwood is home to a most unusual ghostly inhabitant - a boggart that took the form of a horse. This helpful entity was known to plough fields and work around the farm in return for a warm place to spend the night. It's a curious tale that has been passed down through the years, leaving many to wonder about the nature of this supernatural creature.

Country House Georgian
Read Full Story