The Forty Footsteps Haunting
Torrington Square in London's WC1 area is home to a rather unusual and intriguing haunting known as the Forty Footsteps. This spot was once a field where a tragic event took place in the eighteenth century. Two brothers, overcome with grief and rivalry, fought and ultimately killed each other over the love of a girl. As they clashed, each step they took during their fatal battle seemed to kill the grass beneath their feet, leaving a lasting impression on the land.
Historical records reveal that the land was originally named the Field of Forty Footsteps, a poignant reminder of the brothers' fatal duel. The incident has left an indelible mark on the site, with reports of paranormal activity persisting to this day. While details of the haunting are scarce, the legend of the Forty Footsteps has become an integral part of local folklore, attracting those interested in the paranormal and the darker side of London's history.
The site was originally a field before being developed into Torrington Square in the 19th century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Black Winged Creature of Old Chambers
Old Chambers, WC1
Old Chambers, a once-notable building in London's WC1 area, is associated with a bizarre and terrifying haunting. In circa 1901, Charles Appleby was found dead in his room, with large claw marks on his arms and neck. The door and windows were locked from the inside, suggesting a horrific and inexplicable attack. Witnesses outside the building reported seeing Appleby fighting a shadowy, bird-like creature that was at least the same size as him. This creature was described as having black wings, which led to its ominous name.
The End of Days Clergyman
Grange Blooms Hotel, WC1
Deep in the heart of London, the Grange Blooms Hotel stands as a testament to the city's rich history. It's here that the ghost of Dr John Cumming, a Scottish clergyman, is said to roam. Cumming was known for his fiery sermons, which predicted the End of Days would take place between 1848 and 1867. It's little wonder then that his spirit may still linger, waiting for the apocalypse to arrive. Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences, which some attribute to Cumming's restless presence.
Pig-Faced Woman of Markham Square
House in Markham Square, SW3
In the heart of London's SW3, a rather bizarre phantom has been spotted at a house in Markham Square. This ghostly apparition is said to be a naked woman with a most unsettling feature - the face of a pig. What's more, she seems to radiate an otherworldly glow, making for a truly unforgettable sighting. The exact date and time of these sightings are unknown, but one thing's for sure, this pig-faced woman has left a lasting impression on those who claim to have seen her.
Floating Candle Ghost
33 Harewood Square, NW1
At 33 Harewood Square in London's NW1 area, a rather bizarre and intriguing haunting took place back in May 1851. A couple lying in bed were startled to see two candle flames hovering over them. The situation turned even stranger when the male witness tried to grab the flames, only to find they transformed into liquid, running over the bed and eventually fading away to nothing.
Anne Yeats Haunting
Unnamed residence, WC1
Cartwright Gardens in London's WC1 area has a dark history dating back to 1884. It was then known as Burton Crescent. A tragic event took place in one of the flats, where Anne Yeats' body was discovered in the back room. Her killer was never caught, leaving behind a legacy of sorrow and unrest. Locals claim that the flat became haunted, with reports of paranormal activity. Interestingly, the haunting seemed to subside when the area was renamed Cartwright Gardens.
Ghostly Footsteps of Great James Street
Unidentified residence, WC1
Great James Street in London's WC1 area is home to a rather intriguing haunting. A flat along this road has been said to be haunted by the unexplained sounds of footsteps. It's not just the creaks and groans of an old building that can be heard here, but actual footsteps that seem to come from nowhere and go nowhere. On occasion, a male figure dressed in evening wear has been seen, his face covered with a white handkerchief. The atmosphere is certainly unsettling, and one can't help but wonder who this ghostly gentleman might be and what his story is.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Torrington Square

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire

Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey