The Crying Girl of York
In the heart of York, at 5 College Street, a haunting has been reported for decades. This former residence is said to be the site of a tragic event during one of the city's plague outbreaks. A young girl, the only survivor of her family, was allegedly bricked up inside the house with her deceased parents. Her desperate cries for help were ignored, and she eventually starved to death. Today, visitors claim to see the girl's apparition at the window and hear her sorrowful cries echoing from within the building.
Historical records confirm that during the plague, entire families were often quarantined in their homes to prevent the spread of disease. In this case, the girl's family succumbed to the illness, but she remained healthy. The brutal decision to seal the doorway was made to protect others, but it ultimately led to the girl's demise. Witnesses have reported seeing the girl's ghostly figure and hearing her cries, which are said to be a heart-wrenching reminder of her tragic fate. The haunting is characterised by visual and audio phenomena, with many claiming to have experienced both.
The plague ravaged York during the medieval period, leading to widespread death and quarantine measures.
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Nearby Haunted Places
The Smiling Lady of St William's College
St William's College, York
St William's College in York is home to a rather unusual ghostly presence. An elderly lady, often referred to as the 'Old Lady Sitting', has been spotted sitting on the steps outside the college, smiling warmly as people pass her by. Her gentle demeanour has led many to feel a sense of calm in her presence. Some believe she may be the spirit of a former resident or someone connected to the college's history. Whatever her story, her friendly smile has become a welcome sight for those who encounter her.
Roman Legion Ghost Sighting
Treasurer's House, York
Deep in the heart of York's historic centre, Treasurer's House stands as a testament to the city's rich history. It's here, in the cellar of this grand building, that a most remarkable ghostly encounter took place in 1953. Harry Martindale, a man working on a ladder, was startled by a group of Roman soldiers marching past him along the old Roman Road that runs through the basement. The sudden apparition was so shocking that Harry tumbled from his ladder, yet he managed to take in the details of the soldiers' uniforms and equipment, which he later described with remarkable accuracy.
York's Barghest Haunting
Side roads and snickleways in city, York
York's ancient snickleways and side roads are said to be haunted by a large black hound with red glowing eyes, known as the Barghest. This creature is a type of Shuck, a ghostly dog said to roam the countryside and towns, often associated with death and ill omen. The Barghest is said to prey on humans who venture alone through the city's narrow passageways, striking fear into the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its appearances are often linked to the old castle area, adding to the city's rich history of paranormal activity.
Little Girl Ghost York
Snickleway Inn Inn, York
The Snickleway Inn on Goodramgate in York is home to a heartbreaking presence. This little girl, who met her untimely demise when a horse and cart delivering beer ran her over just outside the pub, is said to radiate peace and love. She is often seen waiting on the staircase, a poignant reminder of the tragedy that befell her. The atmosphere she creates is calm and serene, a stark contrast to the circumstances of her death.
York Minster Ghostly Apparitions
York Minster, York
York Minster, one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, is home to a number of intriguing ghostly apparitions. The story of Dean Gale, a gentleman who loved the Minster so much that he refused to leave it even in death, is a fascinating one. His spirit has been seen sitting in the pews, listening intently to sermons, as if still very much alive. But Dean Gale's is not the only ghostly presence said to haunt the Minster. A crisis apparition, the ghost of an officer who appeared to his sister at the exact moment of his death on distant shores, has also been reported. And then there's the unexplained sound of a dog barking, adding to the eerie atmosphere of this historic building.
Phantom Cyclist of York
Road outside York Minster, York
Outside the magnificent York Minster, a strange encounter took place on Easter 2008. Three children were witnesses to a bizarre incident involving a cyclist dressed in old fashioned clothing, riding an antiquated bicycle. The cyclist seemed to be on a collision course with two adults, but miraculously, the adults didn't see the cyclist at all. It's a puzzling event that has left many questions unanswered.
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Haunted hotels and accommodation near 5 College Street
