Angelic Visions of Peckham
Peckham Rye, a tranquil spot in south London, has a rich history of paranormal activity. It's here that the renowned artist William Blake experienced a series of vivid visions in the 1760s. One of his most striking encounters was with a tree filled with angels, a sight that would stay with him forever. As he wandered through the area, Blake also reported seeing angels walking towards him along the road, a truly otherworldly experience that would influence his art and spirituality.
Blake's visions in Peckham Rye were a pivotal moment in his life, marking a turning point in his artistic and spiritual journey. The exact dates of his experiences are unclear, but it's believed to be during the 1760s, a time of great change and creativity for the young artist. While Blake's accounts are the primary source of information, his credibility as a witness is high, given his reputation as a visionary artist and poet. The fact that his experiences have been documented and shared for centuries is a testament to the enduring power of his visions.
18th-century London, a time of artistic and spiritual exploration
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Boudica's Legendary Final Rest
Peckham Rye Park & Common, SE15
Peckham Rye Park & Common is a tranquil oasis in south London, but few visitors realise they're walking on sacred ground. According to historian John Chaple, this is where Boudica, the fearless Celtic warrior queen, fought her final battle and met her demise. The site, a picturesque meadow off Strakerr's Road, is said to be close to where she fell, and some believe she may even be buried here. While there's no concrete evidence to support this claim, the legend has become an integral part of the area's folklore.
Victorian Nurse Ghost
33 Wollich Common, SE18
At 33 Woolwich Common in London, a rather eerie sighting was reported by a former owner of the property. She claimed to have seen a ghostly woman bending over her young daughter. The house, unfortunately, is no longer standing, which makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact location of this haunting. Nevertheless, the image of the ghostly nurse has stuck, leaving many to wonder about the story behind this spectral apparition.
Raining Stones Poltergeist
56/58 Reverdy Road, SE1
On a stormy April day in 1872, the residents of 56/58 Reverdy Road, Bermondsey, were caught off guard by a bizarre and terrifying poltergeist attack. The building was bombarded with stones, smashing every window and injuring people nearby. The hail of stones was relentless, destroying furniture inside the property and causing widespread chaos. A heavy police presence was deployed to try and quell the attack, but it seemed to have little effect. The ordeal lasted for almost eight hours, from 16:00 to 23:30, leaving the community shaken and authorities baffled.
Fairy Fort Haunting
Dun Borbe, South Harris
Dun Borbe, a ancient hill fort nestled in the rugged landscape of South Harris, is said to be the former dwelling place of the fairies. Legend has it that these mischievous little people once roamed the site, but their presence can still be felt today. By stabbing the hill with a knife, brave visitors can apparently hear the fairies speak, a claim that has sparked curiosity and intrigue among locals and tourists alike.
The Teleporting Tap Ghost
Anchor Tap Public House, SE1
The Anchor Tap Public House on Horselydown Lane has a mischievous ghost known as Charlie to locals. He's fond of moving items around the building and has been known to hide things for months on end before returning them to their rightful location. It's not uncommon for staff and patrons to report finding items in strange places or discovering that something has gone missing altogether. The ghost's antics have become a popular topic of conversation among regulars and have even attracted the attention of paranormal enthusiasts.
The Faceless Nun of Peckham
The Nun's Head Public House, SE15
The Nun's Head Public House in Peckham is home to a rather unsettling ghostly presence. Locals and visitors alike have reported sightings of a woman with no facial features, believed to be the spirit of a nun who met a grisly end. This apparition, dubbed Elizabeth the Faceless Nun, is said to roam the premises of this historic pub. Her story is a tragic one, rooted in the tumultuous history of England's monarchs. The Nun's Head has a long and storied past, and it's little wonder that it's become a hub for paranormal activity.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Peckham Rye

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire