Ghosts of Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh
Beddington Park is a beautiful green space in outer London, but beware, for it's said to be haunted by the ghosts of two of England's most famous historical figures - Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh. Local legend has it that the pair, who were known to have been close friends, still roam the park together, strolling along the path that runs between Croydon Road and London Road. It's a romantic notion, but one that's steeped in history, dating back to Raleigh's time at nearby Carew Manor.
The story of Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh's ghostly wanderings is a fascinating one, rooted in the history of the area. Raleigh lived at Carew Manor in the 16th century, and it's believed that the Queen would often visit him there. Their friendship was a close one, and it's said that they would take long walks together in the surrounding countryside. While there's no concrete evidence to prove that their ghosts still haunt Beddington Park, the legend has endured, and many people claim to have seen the pair strolling through the park, dressed in period costume.
The park has been a public green space since the 19th century, with a history dating back to the Tudor period.
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Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Invisible Mare of Orchard House
Orchard House, Outer London: Lower Bedington
Orchard House in Lower Bedington was once the site of a rather unusual and intriguing haunting. It's said that back in 1934, a strange sound could be heard galloping up to the gates of the house, only to abruptly stop. The odd thing was, nobody ever saw a horse or any other animal making this noise. It was as if an invisible mare was visiting the house, its presence felt but not seen. The sound of hooves on the ground must have been quite startling for those who heard it, and it's easy to imagine the surprise and confusion it caused.
Norwood Hall Ghost
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Norwood Hall has been shrouded in mystery for years, with reports of paranormal activity dating back to the late 20th century. This London mansion, situated in the heart of Norwood Green, has a reputation for being haunted, although details of the ghostly encounters are scarce. The hall was mentioned in a 1999 edition of the Middlesex Chronicle as a haunted location, sparking curiosity among paranormal enthusiasts.
Carshalton Mysterious Voice
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Poulters Park in Carshalton is a tranquil spot by day, but on one fateful evening in September 2011, it was the setting for a bizarre and unexplained occurrence. Two people, using their phones as makeshift torches, were crossing the park when they captured a disembodied voice on their recordings. The voice, described as that of an unhappy man, uttered several phrases, including 'vanity' and 'get out'. The witnesses were understandably startled, and their experience has left many questions unanswered.
Ghostly Traveler at The Greyhound Inn Carshalton
The Greyhound, Carshalton
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Headless Rail Worker Ghost
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Deep in the tunnel that connects Crystal Palace to Gipsey Hill, a chilling apparition is said to roam. This forsaken stretch of railway track has borne witness to the ghostly presence of a rail worker who met a tragic end while on the job. The poor soul lost his head in a horrific accident and now remains on the material plane, searching desperately for the lost item. It's a tale of sorrow and loss that has captivated those who dare to venture into this eerie tunnel.
Archbishop's Ethereal Music Lover
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Deep within the walls of Addington Palace, a serene and gentle spirit is said to reside. This former Archbishop, Edward Benson, is believed to still drift around the building, drawn by the sweet sounds of church music. It's a curious thing, but he's only reportedly seen by choirboys, who must surely feel a mix of awe and trepidation at the presence of such a high-ranking clergy member. The palace, with its rich history, provides a fitting backdrop for Benson's ghostly wanderings.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Path between Croydon Road and London Road

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel
Dartford, Kent

Hever Castle Bed and Breakfast
Hever, Kent

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire