The Bell Hotel Ghost
The Bell Hotel in Thetford, Norfolk, has a long history of paranormal activity, with one of its most famous ghosts being that of Betty Radcliffe, the landlady who was tragically killed by her lover in 1750. Guests and staff have reported seeing her wandering the corridors at night, checking that her guests are comfortable. She is often seen accompanied by the sound of her heavy skirt swishing as she passes the doors, and a flickering light like that of a candle can be spotted. Betty's presence is considered to be a benign one, and she is often described as a gentle ghost.
Historically, The Bell Hotel has been a popular stopping point for travellers and locals alike since the 16th century. The haunting by Betty Radcliffe has been documented from the nineteenth century onwards. In addition to Betty's ghost, other paranormal activity has been reported at the hotel, including a young girl seen looking from the windows of the staff quarters, a dog lying in front of what would have been the original fireplace in the bar, jangling keys, a pair of old-fashioned suede boots coming through the ceiling, and a monk. These sightings and experiences have contributed to The Bell Hotel's reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in the UK.
The Bell Hotel has been in operation since the 16th century.
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Nearby Haunted Places
Thetford Ghost Apparition
Bell Hotel, Thetford
The Bell Hotel in Thetford has a long history of paranormal activity. Guests have reported seeing strange apparitions and experiencing unexplained phenomena in room 29, which was previously numbered 10 and 12. One guest on his honeymoon described seeing a young girl with fair hair wearing a white gown and garland. The girl was seen in the room on two consecutive nights and eventually woke the guest by sitting on his bed.
The Devil's Quick Drink
Devil's Punchbowl, Thetford
Deep in the Norfolk countryside lies the enigmatic Devil's Punchbowl, a mere with a water level that seems to fluctuate of its own accord. Locals have long attributed the sudden disappearance of water to the Devil himself taking a quick drink while passing by. This strange phenomenon has captured the imagination of many, sparking whispers of paranormal activity in the area. The Devil's Punchbowl is a place where myth and mystery converge, leaving visitors to ponder the truth behind the legend.
Thetford's Tragic Little George
St George's Nunnery, Thetford
St George's Nunnery in Thetford has a heartbreaking tale of a young boy's untimely death. In May 1559, seven-year-old George tumbled from a wooden horse and cracked his skull on the wall of a nearby bridge, succumbing to his injuries. It's said that George's spirit haunted the area for years, riding a headless wooden horse in a haunting display of his final moments. Locals have reported sightings of the little ghost, and it's believed that his restless energy lingered until he was eventually exorcised.
The Vanishing Man of Foulden
Thetford Forest, Foulden
Deep within Thetford Forest, near the village of Foulden in Norfolk, a bizarre encounter took place on a crisp autumn morning. A holidaymaker, enjoying the scenic trails of this ancient woodland, struck up a conversation with an older man dressed in smart attire. The conversation was brief, with the older man inquiring if the visitor was local before excusing himself. What happened next defies explanation - the man simply vanished into thin air, leaving the holidaymaker stunned and bewildered.
Thetford Bear Sighting
A1066 at Snare Hill, Thetford
Out on the A1066 at Snare Hill, just outside Thetford, something strange was spotted back in June 1979. Several people reported catching a glimpse of a bear on the outskirts of the nearby forest. Now, bears aren't exactly native to Norfolk, so it's no wonder this sighting caused a stir. The witnesses were adamant they'd seen a bear, and it's hard to imagine what else could have looked like that in those woods.
Thetford Forest Black Cat
Wooded areas, Thetford
Deep in Thetford Forest, a sense of unease settles over those who venture into the woods, particularly at dusk or dawn. It's here, among the towering trees and heather-covered moors, that a mysterious black cat with glowing red eyes has been spotted. The first reported sighting dates back to April 1985, but more recent encounters suggest this is no ordinary feline. Described as large, with a build similar to a lynx, the cat seems to be a harbinger of unease, leaving many to wonder if it's a phantom or a creature from the wild.
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Haunted hotels and accommodation near The Bell Hotel
