Ghostly Garments of Kingston
Portland Avenue in Kingston upon Thames was abuzz with strange occurrences back in January 1899. It seemed that a ghostly figure had been spotted lurking about, causing quite the stir among locals. The police, keen to get to the bottom of things, set up a watch in the area and managed to catch the culprit - a man by the name of Alfred Batten. He was found to be wearing 'ghostly garments', a clever ruse that had fooled many into believing they were seeing a real paranormal apparition.
In the late 19th century, it wasnt uncommon for people to dress up in outlandish costumes for a laugh, and it seems Alfred Batten took this to heart. His antics caused a bit of a sensation, with multiple witnesses coming forward to report sightings of the ghostly figure. Batten was eventually fined ten shillings for his troubles, a small price to pay for the attention he received. The incident remains a curious footnote in the history of Kingston upon Thames, a reminder that sometimes the most rational explanations can be just as fascinating as the paranormal ones.
Late 19th century, Victorian era
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Spring Heeled Jack Sighting
Road by Nescot College on the Ewell bypass, Stoneleigh
On a chilly February evening in 2012, a taxi driver and his three passengers witnessed a bizarre incident on the Ewell bypass in Stoneleigh, Surrey. As they drove along the road near Nescot College, a dark figure with no discernible features suddenly darted across the road in front of them. What happened next was even more astonishing - the entity leaped an impressive four and a half metres into the air to clear an embankment. The passengers were quick to compare the entity to the legendary Spring Heeled Jack, a figure from English folklore known for his terrifying appearances and seemingly superhuman abilities.
Cloaked Figure of Nonsuch Park
Nonsuch Park, Ewell
Nonsuch Park in Ewell is home to a rather intriguing haunting. Around the eastern gate, people have reported seeing a phantom figure concealed within a cloak. It's a pretty strange sighting, but what's even more bizarre is that some folks have also heard the sounds of partying coming from the area. It's thought that these sounds might be connected to a palace that was burnt down during the seventeenth century. It's a nice spot for a walk, but you might want to keep your wits about you, especially if you're visiting in the evening.
Ewell Plague Victim Ghosts
St Mary The Virgin, Ewell
St Mary The Virgin in Ewell is home to a haunting that's steeped in history and tragedy. Several graves within the church grounds are believed to belong to victims of the plague, a disease that ravaged England in the 17th century. It's said that the spirits of these unfortunate souls still linger, unable to rest. The graves themselves are a grim reminder of the devastating impact of the plague on local communities. As you stand among the headstones, you can't help but feel a sense of sorrow and unease.
The Breathing Ghost of Liverpool Arms
The Liverpool Arms Public House, Kingston upon Thames
The Liverpool Arms Public House in Kingston upon Thames is home to a rather unusual ghostly presence. It's said that the ghost has been heard breathing in several places around the building. This strange phenomenon has been reported by multiple people over the years, leaving many to wonder about the identity and motivations of this phantom presence. What could be causing this eerie breathing sound, and is it a sign of something more sinister lurking in the shadows?
Ghostly Horse and Coach
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The William IV Inn in Ewell is home to a rather unusual ghostly phenomenon. It's said that the sounds of a horse pulling a coach can be heard outside the inn, though strangely, no one has ever seen the actual vehicle or its occupants. It's a curious case that has left many to wonder about the origins of this spectral sound. Was it a traveller who met with a untimely demise, or perhaps a servant who used to make regular trips to and from the inn? Whatever the reason, the eerie sounds have become a familiar experience for those who have spent time at the inn.
The Taxman of Carshalton
Carshalton House, Sutton
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Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Portland Avenue and surrounding area

Great Fosters Hotel
Egham, Surrey

The Ostrich Inn
Colnbrook, Berkshire

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

Macdonald Berystede Hotel
Sunninghill, Berkshire