The Floating Woman of Whitcomb Street
Whitcomb Street in London's WC1 area is home to a rather eerie sighting. Back in November 1959, a witness gazing out of their window spotted a pale figure drifting along the street. This ghostly woman was clad in a nightdress and had her arms held out in front of her, giving the impression of a gentle, floating motion. The image was fleeting, yet left a lasting impression on the witness. This particular ghostly manifestation has been etched in the memories of locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
The 1950s were a transformative time for London, with the city slowly recovering from the devastation of World War II. Amidst this backdrop of rebuilding and renewal, reports of paranormal activity began to surface. The Woman in Nightdress sighting on Whitcomb Street stands as a fascinating example of such unexplained occurrences. Although details about the witness and their account are scarce, the basic facts of the case have been documented. The apparition's description - a pale figure in a nightdress with outstretched arms - has become synonymous with this London street.
Post-WWII London rebuilding
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Ghostly Actress of St James's
St James's Theatre, SW1
St James's Theatre, once a vibrant hub of London's theatrical scene, now lies in memory as an office block on King Street. Yet, its ghostly legacy lives on. A white-clad figure, believed to be an 18th-century actress, is said to roam the vacant halls. This phantom presence was thought to be a benign spirit, but other signs were less welcoming. An unseen force would hammer at dressing room doors, only to vanish when they were opened. It was as if the ghostly occupant was safeguarding secrets within.
Sir Herbert's Haunted Theatre Seat
Her Majesty's Theatre, SW1
Her Majesty's Theatre in London's West End is home to a rather chilly ghostly presence. Sir Herbert Beerbohm-Tree, a renowned actor and theatre manager, funded the theatre's rebuild in 1899 and had a favourite seat in the top box to the right. People sitting in this very spot have reported feeling cold spots and having the door open on its own accord. It's as if Sir Herbert still likes to make his presence known, even if it's just a subtle chill in the air or a faint whisper of the door creaking open.
The National Gallery Phantom
National Gallery, WC2
Deep in the heart of London's cultural hub, the National Gallery has been home to some of the world's most renowned artworks for centuries. But when the crowds disperse and the lights dim, something strange has been known to occur. CCTV cameras have captured a dark figure wandering the galleries at night, its presence sending shivers down the spines of staff and visitors alike. This unexplained phenomenon has been observed in gallery 16, and some believe it may be connected to the rumoured plague pit beneath gallery 42.
Theatre Phantom Arthur Bourchier
Garrick Theatre, WC2
Deep in the heart of London's West End, the historic Garrick Theatre is home to a mischievous phantom. Arthur Bourchier, a former owner of the theatre, is said to roam the rear of the building, often making his presence known just after a performance. His dislike of critics seems to have translated into a rather grumpy afterlife, with reports of him tapping people on their backs. It's as if he's still trying to make his feelings known, even in death.
The Cinema Cleaning Ghost
Prince Charles Cinema, WC2
The Prince Charles Cinema on Leicester Place in London is home to a rather unusual ghost. This phantom cleaner has been making its presence known since the 1960s, tidying up dirty areas and adjusting the volume on films. It's as if the cinema has a mischievous caretaker who ensures everything is spotless and just right for the moviegoers. While it may seem a bit odd, this ghostly activity has become a charming part of the cinema's character.
Violet Melnotte Theatre Ghost
Duke of York's Theatre, WC2
The Duke of York's Theatre on St Martin's Lane has been entertaining Londoners since its construction, but it's not just the live shows that draw in the crowds. This theatre has a secret star, Violet Melnotte, its original builder, who refuses to leave the stage. Violet's presence has been felt from 1935 onwards, with reports of her watching performances from her own personal box. It's said she still keeps a close eye on the shows, even after all these years.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Whitcomb Street
Fox Connaught
Newham, London
The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent
The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire
Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey