Skip to main content

Phantom Footmen of Barford

Watton Road, Barford, Norfolk Apparition Georgian

On a quiet stretch of Watton Road, between the villages of Barford and Kimberley, a strange encounter took place on the evening of 1 September 2013. A driver was navigating the rural road when they had to swerve to avoid three figures standing in the middle of the road. The apparitions were dressed in attire from a bygone era - one figure wore a long, flowing red cloak, while the other two were clad in the livery of eighteenth-century footmen. What's remarkable about this encounter is that the figures seemed completely oblivious to the approaching car, paying it no attention whatsoever.

Further investigation into the incident revealed that the driver had contacted nearby Kimberley Hall to inquire about a potential fancy dress event that might have been taking place that evening. However, they were informed that no such event was scheduled. This haunting manifestation, though brief, has left many questions unanswered. The presence of these phantom footmen on Watton Road has sparked curiosity among locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike. While the exact connection to Kimberley Hall remains unclear, it's possible that the apparitions are linked to a historical event or a former resident of the area.

Historical Context

The area has a rich history dating back to the Georgian era, with several historic homes and estates nearby.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Road
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Single Witness
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
01 September 2013, 01:15h
Postcode Area
NR20

Nearby Haunted Places

Apparition 0.7 mi

Sir Thomas Boleyn's Ghostly Coach

Bay's Bridge, Braydeston

Bay's Bridge in Braydeston is a spot where the restless spirit of Sir Thomas Boleyn is said to make an eerie appearance. On May 19th of every year, locals claim that Sir Thomas passes over the bridge in his coach, reenacting a journey he made on the anniversary of his daughter's death. The exact details of the haunting are shrouded in mystery, but the image of a ghostly coach rattling over the bridge is one that has captured the imagination of paranormal enthusiasts and locals alike.

Bridge Tudor
Read Full Story
Fairy 1.7 mi

Great Melton Fairy Haunting

Area once known as Blow Hill, Great Melton

Blow Hill, a spot once known for its eerie reputation, is said to be home to the Hyter Sprites, a type of fairy believed to be beneficent. Though their homes were avoided after dusk, these mythical creatures were thought to inhabit this part of Great Melton. The hill, also known as Coldblow Hill, has a long history of folklore and legend, with the Hyter Sprites being a fascinating part of it. While there's no concrete evidence of their existence, the stories surrounding them have become an integral part of local history.

Hill Pre-twentieth century
Read Full Story
Apparition 1.7 mi

The Weeping Woman of Blow Hill

Blow Hill, Great Melton

Blow Hill in Great Melton, Norfolk, is home to a rather poignant and puzzling ghostly apparition. A phantom woman, reportedly carrying a crying child, has been seen sitting under a tree on this rural hill. The image is a sorrowful one, evoking feelings of sadness and loss. This ghostly manifestation dates back to the 1870s, a time when such sightings were often attributed to restless spirits or unexplained phenomena.

Hill Victorian
Read Full Story
Apparition 3.3 mi

Bawburgh Church Blue Lights

Church, Bawburgh

In the quaint Norfolk village of Bawburgh, a mystifying spectacle has been observed for years at St Michael's Church. On the 30th of May every year, blue lights are said to materialise and dance above the church well, entrancing all who are lucky enough to witness this paranormal phenomenon. The exact origin of this haunting manifestation remains a mystery, but its reputation has grown, attracting those with a keen interest in the unexplained.

Church Medieval
Read Full Story
Unknown 3.6 mi

Coach

General area, Wicklewood

In the sleepy Norfolk village of Wicklewood, a strange and intriguing haunting has been reported. The ghostly coach is said to emerge from an unknown pit, touring the neighbourhood before returning to the ground. This eerie apparition has captured the imagination of locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike, with many attempting to catch a glimpse of the phantom vehicle. While details of the haunting are scarce, the image of a spectral coach rattling through the quiet village streets is a compelling one.

General Area Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 4.1 mi

Blickling Black Dog Haunting

Forests in area, Blickling

Deep in the forests of Blickling, Norfolk, a ghostly presence is said to roam, believed to be the spirit of a hunting dog mistakenly killed after the death of its master. This spectral hound, known as the Black Dog of Blickling, has been a part of local folklore since the 17th century. Its story is one of loyalty and tragedy, a poignant reminder of the bond between a hunter and his faithful companion. The Black Dog is not to be confused with the more malevolent Shuck, a ghostly hound said to roam other parts of England. Instead, this phantom dog is seen as a harmless, if somewhat sorrowful, apparition.

Woods 17th Century
Read Full Story

Stay Nearby

Haunted hotels and accommodation near Watton Road