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The Smiling Lady of St William's College

St William's College, York, North Yorkshire Apparition Medieval

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.

Historical Context

St William's College was founded in the 13th century

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Historic College
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Multiple Witnesses
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
1978
Postcode Area
YO1

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