War Ghosts of 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.
The war years saw Cowfold Monastery play host to troops, but it appears the site's history stretches back much further. Although records of paranormal activity are scarce, it's clear that the monks who once lived here left behind more than just their legacy. The haunting manifestations reported during the war suggest a restless presence, one that could be connected to the monastery's past. While we can't say for certain what caused these ghostly apparitions, it's clear that Cowfold Monastery has a mysterious atmosphere that still lingers today.
Cowfold Monastery dates back to the medieval period, although little remains of the original structure.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Cowfold Dark Figure Sighting
A272 just off mini roundabout towards Bolney, Cowfold
On a stretch of road in Cowfold, West Sussex, a driver had a startling encounter on the night of 5 May 2021. As they were driving along the A272, just off the mini roundabout towards Bolney, they spotted a dark figure suddenly run into the road. The driver quickly swerved to avoid it, and in doing so, the figure vanished into thin air. This bizarre incident left the driver shaken and wondering if they had really seen what they thought they had.
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.
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 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.
Henfield Poltergeist Haunting
Budgens Supermarket, Henfield
In the sleepy village of Henfield, nestled in the heart of West Sussex, a rather unusual poltergeist was said to have haunted the local Budgens Supermarket. Strange occurrences started to plague the store, with items mysteriously removing themselves from shelves and a jar hovering in mid-air before falling to the ground. These bizarre events were reportedly accompanied by more traditional signs of paranormal activity, including disembodied footsteps and fleeting shadows darting around the store.
The Smiling Lady of Twineham
Rectory, Twineham
In the sleepy Sussex village of Twineham, a rather charming ghostly apparition has been spotted on several occasions. The Smiling Lady, as she's come to be known, is said to appear in the rectory, dressed in brilliant white and carrying a basket of roses. Her presence is often accompanied by a harsh, scratching sound that seems to emanate from the upper part of the building. While there's no record of her interactions with the living, her gentle demeanor and lovely attire have led many to believe she's a benevolent spirit.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Monastery

The Regency Hotel
Brighton, East Sussex

Amberley Castle
Amberley, West Sussex

Angmering Manor Hotel
Angmering, West Sussex