The Smiling Lady of St William's College
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.
Delving deeper into the history of St William's College, it's clear that the building has a rich and complex past. The college has stood for centuries, and it's likely that the ghostly apparitions are connected to events from its history. Alongside the smiling lady, a male ghost is said to haunt the corridors of the college. According to reports, he died a broken man after turning his brother in for a murder they had both committed. This dark history may be the key to understanding the presence of these ghosts, and it's certainly a fascinating aspect of the college's paranormal activity.
St William's College was founded in the 13th century
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Nearby Haunted Places
The Crying Girl of York
5 College Street, 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.
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 St William's College
