The Vanishing Couple of Brighton
Imagine walking into a room at the Old Ship Public House, thinking you're alone, and then suddenly you're face to face with a couple - only for them to vanish into thin air. That's exactly what happened to a maid who entered one of the west wing rooms, which she thought was empty. She was about to apologise when the man and woman sitting on the bed disappeared before her eyes. It's a strange and unsettling experience that has left many wondering about the history of this Brighton pub.
The Old Ship Public House has been a popular spot in Brighton for centuries. Dating back to the 16th century, it's seen its fair share of guests and staff. One member of staff claimed to have seen a shadowy figure move across the ballroom, adding to the mystery of the vanishing couple. While we don't know much about the couple or what happened to them, it's clear that the Old Ship has a rich history that's worth exploring. The haunting manifestation is a fascinating example of the paranormal activity that's been reported at this historic pub.
The Old Ship Public House dates back to the 16th century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The White Doe Legend
Knepp Castle, West Grinstead
Knepp Castle in West Grinstead is said to be haunted by a rather unusual ghost - a white doe. This albino creature is steeped in local legend and is believed to be the spirit of a fair maiden who was transformed into a deer by an evil witch back in the 1400s. The story goes that the witch cast a spell on the young woman, condemning her to roam the castle grounds as a white doe. Locals have reported catching glimpses of the ghostly creature over the years, often describing it as a fleeting, eerie presence.
The Hitchhiking Teenager of Horsham
Unknown junction along A24 near Horsham, Horsham
Along the A24 near Horsham, a spine-tingling phenomenon has been reported by numerous drivers. They pick up a teenage girl who seems like any ordinary hitchhiker, but soon after their journey starts, she vanishes into thin air. It's as if she was never there in the first place. Some drivers have even reported that she gave them her telephone number, only for them to discover that the number leads to a tragic revelation - the girl died in a car accident near that very spot years ago.
Gliding Old Man Apparition
Crossroads known as Buck Barn, Billingshurst
Buck Barn Crossroads, a spot nestled between Billingshurst and Hayward's Heath in Sussex, has been the site of a rather eerie phenomenon. Locals and travellers alike have reported encountering a peculiar figure, described as an old man resembling a traditional tramp or hobo. He is said to sit on a milestone by the crossroads, before gliding in front of oncoming traffic. The reports, which began in October 1947, share a common detail: when the vehicle stops, there is no sign of the figure. It's as if he vanishes into thin air.
Adele's Haunted Lock House
Lock House, Partridge Green
Lock House in Partridge Green has got a reputation for being one of the most haunted houses in Sussex. It's a former convent with a history that stretches back centuries. Singer Adele moved in, but she didn't stay long. She reportedly heard strange things at night and even compared one area of the property to the film The Shining. It got to the point where she hired a bodyguard, but still ended up moving away just six months after arriving.
The Green Man Ghost Cat
Green Man Public House, Partridge Green
The Green Man Public House in Partridge Green is home to a rather unusual ghost - a cat. This feline phantom probably has a connection to the kettle that once turned itself on in a room devoid of human life. While the exact date and time of this incident are unknown, it's clear that the Green Man has a reputation for being haunted by a mischievous presence. The story of the ghost cat has become a popular part of the pub's folklore, with many visitors curious about the strange occurrences that have taken place here.
War Ghosts of Cowfold
Monastery, Cowfold
Cowfold Monastery in Sussex has a spine-tingling secret. During World War II, this historic site was used as a base for soldiers, but it seems they weren't the only ones in residence. Certain areas of the monastery were said to unsettle the guard dogs, who would get spooked for no apparent reason. The military men themselves weren't too keen on investigating these strange occurrences, perhaps sensing that they were in for a fright.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Old Ship Public House

Amberley Castle
Amberley, West Sussex

Angmering Manor Hotel
Angmering, West Sussex

The Regency Hotel
Brighton, East Sussex

Chichester Inn
Chichester, West Sussex