Mugged Monk of Westminster
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.
The history of Westminster Abbey is intertwined with the story of this doomed monk. While details of his life are scarce, the circumstances of his death are a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those who once walked these sacred halls. Interestingly, another ghostly figure has been spotted in the vicinity - a First World War soldier who appears by the tomb of the Unknown Warrior. His mouth seems to move as if trying to communicate, but no sound is audible. These hauntings add a layer of mystery to the already rich history of Westminster Abbey.
Westminster Abbey has a long history dating back to the 7th century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
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.
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 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.
The Diving Lady of Thames
Between Westminster and Greenwich, SW1
River Thames has borne witness to many a tragic tale, but one that stands out is that of the Diving Lady. A man crossing the river on a steam ferry in the nineteenth century watched in horror as a lady wearing a black veil jumped into the water. Without hesitation, he dived after her but was unable to find the lady. He swam back to the ferry and was pulled from the water by the captain and a few others. The man's account of the incident would leave a lasting impression on the crew, for the captain revealed that she had been seen twice before that week, performing the same action, but could never be found in the water.
Skeleton Searcher of St Mary's
St Mary's Church and graveyard, E11
St Mary's Church in London's E11 area is home to a haunting tale of love and loss. A skeletal ghost has been spotted pushing a cart used for transporting corpses, searching for the body of his deceased wife that was stolen by grave robbers. This eerie apparition is said to roam the church and graveyard, driven by a desire to reunite with his lost love. The atmosphere is thick with sorrow as he searches for his wife, a poignant reminder of the transience of life and the enduring power of love.
Richard Cloudesley's Ghostly Return
Area around St Mary's Church, N1
In the heart of Islington, around St Mary's Church on Upper Street, a bizarre and intriguing haunting has been documented. It's said that Richard Cloudesley, a local figure, returned from the grave shortly after being buried in 1517. The exact circumstances are shrouded in mystery, but it's reported that the field where Cloudesley was laid to rest was found disturbed, with the earth visibly 'swelling'. This unusual occurrence prompted a team of exorcists to be called to the scene to lay the phantom.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Westminster Abbey

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire

Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey