Ghostly Ballerina of Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre in London's West End is home to a ghostly presence that's said to be none other than the legendary Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. While there's ongoing debate about the identity of this phantom performer, one thing's for sure - the theatre has a long history of paranormal activity. Pavlova's ghost is thought to roam the theatre, although some believe it might not be the real deal. Either way, it's a fascinating phenomenon that's captured the imagination of theatre-goers and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
Built in 1911, the Palace Theatre has hosted countless productions over the years, including musicals, plays, and ballets. It's perhaps fitting then that a ghostly ballerina is said to haunt the venue. Interestingly, the theatre is also home to the spirit of Ivor Novello, the Welsh composer and actor who died in 1951. Novello's ghost is said to watch performances from the back of the dress circle, and it's reported that two seats are often left unfilled during shows - a nod to these ghostly residents. During the run of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, however, these seats were sold as normal, perhaps a sign that the theatre's management were keen to emphasise the commercial viability of the venue.
The Palace Theatre was built in 1911 and has hosted numerous productions, including ballets, musicals, and plays.
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Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Theatre Royal Ghost Sighting
Drury Lane Theatre Royal, WC2
Drury Lane Theatre Royal is home to a rather charming ghost known as the Man in Grey. This spectral figure, dressed in a long grey coat and Tricorn hat, is considered a good omen for the theatre's productions. If he appears during rehearsals, either in the morning or afternoon, it's said the performance will be a great success. But the Man in Grey isn't the only ghost believed to haunt this historic theatre. King Charles II, a renowned theatre enthusiast, is also thought to make an appearance, as is Joe Grimaldi, who helps actors struggling with their lines.
Theatre Ghost Sir Charles Wyndham
Albery Theatre, WC2
The Albery Theatre on St Martin's Lane is home to a very special resident - the ghost of Sir Charles Wyndham. This historic theatre was built by the renowned actor-manager himself, and it's said that his spirit still walks the hallowed halls. Described as a grey-haired shade, Sir Charles is often spotted lurking near the dressing rooms, perhaps keeping an eye on the talented performers who tread the boards today. It's a charming and harmless presence that adds to the theatre's mystique.
Grey Lady of Fortune Theatre
Fortune Theatre, WC2
Fortune Theatre in London's West End is home to a rather ironic ghostly presence. The theatre is famous for hosting the long-running stage play The Woman in Black, but its own paranormal resident is a grey lady, often spotted in a lower box. This eerie apparition has been seen by many since the 1990s, and is joined by two shadowy figures that have been observed standing to the right of the stage. It's a strange coincidence that a theatre so closely associated with a ghost story should have its own ghostly inhabitant.
Ghost of Displaced Actress
Aldwych Underground Station, WC2
Deep in the heart of London, where the city's theatre district meets its historic transport network, lies the abandoned Aldwych Underground Station. This forgotten relic, built on the site of the former Royal Strand Theatre, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a female actress. According to reports from cleaning staff working the night shift, the apparition is often seen standing on the tracks, a spectral presence that seems to have migrated from the original theatre building to the station shortly after it opened its doors.
Screaming Children of Glasgow
Museum of Transport, Glasgow
The Museum of Transport in Glasgow is home to a rather unsettling haunting. A security guard working at the museum reported a series of bizarre occurrences, including the unearthly screams of children. These blood-curdling cries have been heard echoing through the museum's corridors, sending shivers down the spines of staff and visitors alike. The guard also witnessed balls of blue light darting around, adding to the eerie atmosphere. But that's not all - a headless woman has been spotted wandering the halls, her presence as unsettling as it is unexplained.
The Legless Woman of Covent Garden
Covent Garden Piazza, WC2
Covent Garden Piazza, a historic and bustling spot in the heart of London, is said to be haunted by a mysterious figure known as the Legless Woman. On 31 December 1989, a photograph taken by Mr Webb of his young daughter captured a strange and intriguing image - a woman dressed in black floating legless in the background. While it's possible that the woman's legs are concealed behind a post, the angle at which she leans does create doubt that the lady is corporeal. This bizarre and unexplained sighting has contributed to Covent Garden's reputation as a hub of paranormal activity.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Palace Theatre

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire

Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey