Composer's Ghostly Visit
Knight's Croft in Rustington, Sussex, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Hubert Parry, the famous composer of 'Jerusalem'. One day, not long after his passing in 1918, Parry's spirit was seen wandering around his former home, a warm smile on his face. He seemed to be taking in his surroundings, as if reacquainting himself with the place he once called home. And then, just as suddenly as he appeared, he vanished into thin air.
Historically, Hubert Parry was a prominent figure in British music, renowned for his contributions to the world of classical music. Born in 1852, Parry was a talented composer who wrote many notable works, including the beloved hymn 'Jerusalem'. He lived in Knight's Croft during his lifetime, and it's here that his post-mortem manifestation was reportedly seen. The exact date of the sighting is unclear, but it's believed to have occurred sometime in 1918, following Parry's death. While there's no concrete evidence to support the claim, the story has been passed down through the years, adding to the mystique of Knight's Croft.
Hubert Parry lived in Knight's Croft during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Short Man of Seahorse
The Seahorse, Littlehampton
The Seahorse, once a floating restaurant in Littlehampton Marina, was the site of some rather unusual occurrences back in 1984, its first year of operation. It seems that a short gentleman made an appearance near the staircase, only to vanish into thin air when people tried to approach him. This fleeting glimpse of a person who didnt quite fit in with the rest of the patrons left a lasting impression on those who were present.
Phantom Priest of Arundel
St Nicholas Church, Arundel
St Nicholas Church in Arundel is home to a fascinating phantom priest. This ghostly figure was captured on a photograph taken inside the church back in 1940, standing by the altar. The image is a compelling piece of paranormal evidence. Alongside the priest, the church is said to be haunted by two women - a nun who has been seen and heard walking in the bell tower, and a woman in blue who has been observed praying at the altar. These apparitions contribute to the church's reputation as a hub of paranormal activity.
Poling Priory Ghostly Chants
House built on site of St John's Priory, Poling
Deep in the Sussex countryside, the house at Plainchant stands on a site steeped in history - the former grounds of St John's Priory. It's here that a haunting, otherworldly phenomenon has been reported: the sound of monks singing their praises to God. These ethereal voices, sometimes accompanied by the faint sound of an organ, are said to echo through the halls of the house, transporting listeners to a bygone era of devotion and contemplation.
The White Lady of Littlehampton Road
Road between Littlehampton and Worthing, Littlehampton
On a dark winter's night, back in 1833, a lone rider was making his way home along the winding road between Littlehampton and Worthing. As he rounded a bend, he was startled to see a ghostly figure standing in the road ahead. To his surprise, he recognised the woman as Harriet, a family friend who had passed away a couple of years prior. Her spirit appeared as a white female figure, and the rider was shaken but also moved by her presence. He recalled that Harriet's two children were struggling to find stability, and he reassured her ghost that he would do his best to look after them. With that promise made, the phantom vanished into thin air.
The Giant Monk of Ecclesden
Area of Ecclesden Manor, Angmering
Deep in the Sussex countryside, the historic Ecclesden Manor stands as a backdrop for one of the most bizarre and intriguing ghost stories in English folklore. Locals have long spoken of an enormous monk, reportedly fifteen feet tall, that roams the grounds of this ancient estate. The sheer scale of this apparition has captivated the imagination of paranormal enthusiasts and locals alike. But that's not all - a disembodied voice, whispering the names of those who dare to enter, has also been reported within the manor's walls. It's said that a housekeeper caught a glimpse of the ghost of a former owner, adding to the mystique of this haunted location.
Knuckler Dragon Legend
Knucker Hole, Lyminster
Deep in the Arun valley, a legendary terror once stalked the local population. Knucker Hole, a hunting ground in Lyminster, Sussex, was said to be the lair of the Knuckler, a fearsome dragon that roamed the area, preying on livestock and people alike. Its reign of terror was eventually brought to an end by a brave knight, who slew the beast and earned a hero's burial in the local church. The story of the Knuckler has been passed down through the ages, a testament to the enduring power of local legend.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Knight's Croft

Angmering Manor Hotel
Angmering, West Sussex

Amberley Castle
Amberley, West Sussex

Chichester Inn
Chichester, West Sussex

The Regency Hotel
Brighton, East Sussex