Heathrow Reservoir Shark Attack
Imagine swimming in a London reservoir on a warm summer's day, only to be suddenly attacked by a mysterious creature. That's exactly what happened to a woman on 16 August 1997, when she was grabbed and held by the foot by an unknown entity while swimming in this very reservoir, south of Heathrow Airport. The creature's grip was strong enough to leave bite marks, which were later examined by a marine biologist. The expert's verdict? The attacker must have been a shark, but how did a shark end up in a London reservoir?
Delving into the background of this bizarre incident, it's clear that cryptozoological encounters are rare in the UK. The reservoir in question is a relatively small body of water, and it's unclear how a shark could have ended up there. The attack was a shock to local residents, and it remains one of the most unusual paranormal incidents on record in the Heathrow area. The witness's account of the attack is supported by the physical evidence of the bite marks, which were analysed by a marine expert. While the incident may have been a one-off, it continues to fascinate those interested in the strange and unknown.
Late 20th century urban development
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Poltergeist Party House
House formally owned by Dominic West, N1
In the heart of London's trendy Hoxton area, a rather unusual haunting took place at a house formerly owned by actor Dominic West. The entity, described as a poltergeist, started causing trouble after West moved out and his friend, a vicar, moved in. It seems the mischievous spirit had a taste for throwing items around, making its presence known in a very physical way. But what happened next is where things take a curious turn.
The Cavalier of Harefield
Fisheries Inn Inn, Outer London: Harefield, Hillingdon
The Fisheries Inn in Harefield stands as a hub of paranormal activity, with reports dating back to the late twentieth century. This historic public house is said to be haunted by a ghostly swordsman, known as the Cavalier, who has been seen walking around the premises, disturbing any pets that cross his path. His presence is often felt throughout the inn, leaving many to wonder about the story behind this restless spirit.
Dick Turpin's Ghostly Haunt
Hounslow Heath, Outer London: Hounslow
Hounslow Heath is a place where the past seems to linger, and one of its most infamous residents is the ghost of Dick Turpin, the notorious highwayman. This area of urban heathland has been a hub of activity for centuries, and Turpin's spirit is said to be just as busy in death as he was in life. Locals and visitors alike have reported strange occurrences and sightings, all attributed to the ghostly presence of Dick Turpin.
Heathrow Airport Ghostly Encounters
General area, Outer London: Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport, a bustling hub of modern air travel, has a surprisingly rich history of paranormal activity. Female staff members have reported hearing heavy breathing sounds around them, but despite numerous searches, no one has ever been seen. This eerie presence is just one of several ghostly encounters that have been documented at the airport over the years.
Theatre Manager Ghost
Metropolitan Music Hall, WC2
The Metropolitan Music Hall on Edgware Road in London's WC2 area is said to be haunted by the ghost of a manager who was killed in the trenches during World War I. This former theatre, which no longer stands, was once a hub of entertainment and it's here that the manager is believed to have returned to watch the first performances of new shows. His dedication to ensuring the shows were up to scratch even in death is a testament to his passion for the theatre. Locals and visitors alike have reported strange occurrences, hinting at the manager's continued presence.
Smell of Death Haunting
Former Bass Sales Office, E1
The Former Bass Sales Office on Cephas Street in London's East End has a chilling reputation for being haunted by a mysterious presence. Workers in this building, which was constructed on the site of an old doctor's office, reported experiencing inexplicable cold spots and a pungent smell reminiscent of embalming fluid. This unsettling phenomenon has been documented as far back as 1980, leaving many to wonder if the building's history is somehow connected to the strange occurrences.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Unnamed reservoir south
The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire
Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey
Macdonald Berystede Hotel
Sunninghill, Berkshire
Easthampstead Park
Bracknell, Berkshire