Animated Queen Anne Statue
Queen Anne's Gate in Westminster is home to a rather unusual statue of Queen Anne. Every year on August 1st, the statue comes to life and walks around the neighbourhood. This phenomenon has been occurring for some time, but it wasn't until recently that the statue was correctly identified. For years, people believed it was a statue of Bloody Mary, but a clean-up operation revealed an inscription that set the record straight.
The statue of Queen Anne has been a fixture in Queen Anne's Gate for centuries. Queen Anne herself was a significant figure in British history, ruling from 1702 to 1714. The statue was likely erected during her reign or shortly after her death. While there's no clear explanation for why the statue animates on August 1st, it's possible that it's connected to some long-forgotten tradition or event. Whatever the reason, the animation of the statue is a remarkable sight that's sure to leave onlookers intrigued.
Queen Anne ruled Britain from 1702 to 1714
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Nearby Haunted Places
Poltergeist Lab Investigations
National Laboratory of Psychical Research, SW7
At the National Laboratory of Psychical Research, now known as the College of Psychic Studies, a most intriguing case of paranormal activity took place back in 1928. Eight-year-old Douglas Drew was brought to the centre by Harry Price, a renowned paranormal investigator, who hoped to harness the boy's alleged poltergeist energy to shatter glass jars using an electrical current. The test unfortunately failed to produce the desired results, but it remains a fascinating example of the early 20th-century experiments into psychic phenomena.
The Red Striped Phantom
St James's Park, SW1
St James's Park, one of London's oldest and most beautiful royal parks, has a darker side to its tranquil atmosphere. A misty figure, apparently dressed in clothing with red stripes, has been spotted wandering the park's paths, particularly around Birdcage Walk and Cockpit Steps. This entity is thought to be the wife of an officer who was brutally murdered by her husband in the early 19th century. According to legend, the husband was trying to dispose of his wife's remains in the park when he was caught. The figure has been seen by multiple people over the years, including two soldiers in 1802 who were so scared by the encounter that they abandoned their duties. In 1972, a motorist claimed to have hit a lamppost while trying to avoid a misty figure dressed in red.
The Gunpowder Plot Ghost
Westminster Hall, SW1
Deep within the historic Westminster Hall in London, a strange and intriguing haunting has been reported. Dressed in traditional hat and cape, the ghost of Guy Fawkes is said to appear near one of the passageways that would have led him to his secret stash of explosives. This eerie apparition is believed to be a manifestation of the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605, an event that shook the very foundations of British history. As you explore the labyrinthine corridors of Westminster Hall, it's not hard to imagine the vengeful spirit of Fawkes still plotting his course.
Mugged Monk of Westminster
Westminster Abbey, SW1
Deep within the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey, a sense of unease settles over the cloisters between 5-6pm. It's here that a tall, thin monk is said to reappear, his presence a fleeting reminder of a tragic event. The story goes that this monk was stabbed to death during a robbery, his life cut short in a moment of senseless violence. His brief return is a poignant echo of that fateful day.
Ghostly Footsteps of President Bradshaw
Westminster Deanery, SW1
Deep within the hallowed halls of Westminster Deanery, a strange and unsettling phenomenon has been reported. The sound of ghostly footsteps echoes through the corridors, seemingly belonging to a man with a dark and storied past. These eerie footsteps are said to be the ghostly manifestation of President Bradshaw, the man who authored the death warrant of King Charles I. The deanery, with its rich history and ornate architecture, provides a fitting backdrop for this paranormal activity.
Phantom Monks of Jubilee Line
Jubilee Line, SW1
Deep beneath the streets of London, on the Jubilee Line, a strange phenomenon has been observed. Since the line's construction, which began in the 1990s and finished in the early 2000s, reports have emerged of phantom monks walking the tracks. These ghostly apparitions seem to be connected to the many graves that were disturbed during the construction work. It's said that the monks are seen wandering the tunnels, their presence felt by those who catch a glimpse of them.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Queen Anne's Gate

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire

Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey