Skip to main content

The Mysterious Man in Gold

Dinas Powys Castle, Dinas Powys, South Glamorgan Apparition Georgian

Dinas Powys Castle stands atop a hill in the charming Welsh town of Dinas Powys, its stone walls bearing witness to centuries of history. It's here that a remarkable encounter took place, involving a poor spinning woman and a ghostly figure in a gold laced suit. According to the tale, this spectral being appeared to the woman, guiding her to a hidden box with instructions to send it to the Earl of Powys in London, without opening it. The woman obeyed, and in return, the Earl paid her rent for the rest of her life. The contents of the box remain a mystery to this day.

This intriguing episode is said to have occurred in the eighteenth century, a time of great social change in Wales. The Earl of Powys, a prominent figure in British society, was known for his extensive estates and influence. While the details of the encounter are shrouded in mystery, it's clear that the spinning woman's life was forever changed by the experience. The fact that the Earl chose to remain anonymous, simply rewarding the woman for her obedience, adds to the enigma. What was in the box, and why did the ghostly figure in gold choose this particular woman for the task?

Historical Context

The castle has a long history dating back to the 13th century, with various owners and occupants over the centuries.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Castle
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Single Witness
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Eighteenth century
Postcode Area
CF64

Nearby Haunted Places

Apparition 1.8 mi

The White Girl of Cardiff Council House

Council house, Cardiff

In the heart of Cardiff, a reportedly haunted council house has been the site of numerous paranormal sightings. The White Girl, as she's come to be known, was said to appear in the corridors of this imposing building, peering around doorways to catch the attention of those unfortunate enough to cross her path. Her presence was first reported in 1962, and it seems her ghostly apparition was enough to send a family of seven packing, unable to cope with the unsettling experience of being watched by this mischievous spirit.

Council Building Modern
Read Full Story
Apparition 1.9 mi

Pirate of Kymin House

Kymin House, Penarth

Kymin House in Penarth is said to be haunted by the ghost of Captain Ramon Hill, an eighteenth century pirate who seems to have a taste for scaring people. They say he enjoys remaining earthbound, causing a stir among visitors and staff. The house itself is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, but it's the pirate's presence that really draws people in. Imagine walking through the grand halls and stumbling upon a swashbuckling spirit from the high seas.

Country House Georgian
Read Full Story
Apparition 2.1 mi

Murder Stone Ghosts

Churchyard, Cadoxton

Deep in the Welsh countryside lies Cadoxton Churchyard, home to a haunting monument known as the Murder Stone. This weathered stone commemorates the tragic fate of Margaret Williams, whose lifeless body was discovered on nearby marshland in 1822. The circumstances of her death were shrouded in scandal and heartbreak - she was pregnant at the time, fuelling speculation that her lover was also her killer. Despite the rumours and suspicions, Margaret's murderer was never brought to justice. Locals claim that the ghosts of Margaret and her former lover still linger around the stone, their presence a poignant reminder of the tragic events that unfolded so many years ago.

Churchyard Georgian
Read Full Story
Apparition 2.6 mi

Ghost of Cardiff Boy

Cowbridge Road area, Cardiff

The Cowbridge Road area of Cardiff is a hub of paranormal activity, with numerous reports of ghostly sightings. One of the most enduring legends is that of a young boy who haunts this part of town. Locals claim that his spirit is often seen wandering the streets, and some have even reported encountering his mischievous presence. While the origins of his haunting are shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain - the ghost of the young boy has become an integral part of Cardiff's paranormal folklore.

Residential Area Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 2.9 mi

Smiling Faces Haunting Barry

Unknown semi, Barry

In the quiet town of Barry, Wales, a bizarre incident took place in a semi-detached house that left residents and authorities perplexed. A woman living in the building became convinced that her curtains were possessed, leading her to take drastic action. She set her curtains on fire, causing significant damage and ultimately losing her looks in the process. This unusual event has sparked interest among paranormal enthusiasts, who have dubbed it the Smiling Faces Haunting. The incident reportedly occurred in the early 2000s, leaving many to wonder what drove the woman to such extreme behaviour.

Private Residence Modern
Read Full Story
UFO 2.9 mi

Mysterious Circle of Light

Cowbridge Road, Cardiff

On a busy Cardiff road, a rather bizarre incident took place on Cowbridge Road, back in February or March 2023. A lone witness was travelling along when they spotted a circle of white light making its way slowly across the rooftops of four houses. It was as if someone had shone a massive torch on the surfaces, but there were no vehicles or aircraft in the sky that could have caused it. The light vanished as suddenly as it appeared, leaving the witness scratching their head.

Road Modern
Read Full Story