Ghost of Mr Hawkley
In the sleepy village of Hankham, nestled in the rolling hills of East Sussex, a peculiar sighting has been reported. Mill Hill, a quiet residential area, is home to a ghostly apparition known as Mr Hawkley. After his wife's passing, Mr Hawkley became increasingly eccentric and was often seen walking the village roads at night, clad in his dressing gown and slippers. One evening, a young woman drove past him, thinking little of the encounter, until she arrived home and learned that Mr Hawkley had actually passed away three weeks prior.
The story of Mr Hawkley begins with his wife's death, which sent him into a downward spiral of grief and eccentricity. His nocturnal wanderings, dressed in pyjamas or a dressing gown and slippers, became a familiar sight to some residents. The incident involving the young woman, who had been away for two months, serves as a chilling example of a post-mortem manifestation, where the deceased appears to be stuck between worlds. This phenomenon occurred on 9 November 1976, leaving a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.
Late 20th-century England, post-war era
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Mystery Hill Optical Illusion
A272 west of village, Rogate
The Mystery Spot, located on the A272 west of Rogate village, is a baffling phenomenon that has left many motorists scratching their heads. This strange spot appears to defy gravity, as vehicles seem to roll up the hill rather than down. It's a natural optical illusion that has been puzzling travellers for years, and it's still present today. As you approach the spot, you'll notice that the road seems to be sloping downwards, but somehow, your vehicle will appear to be driving uphill. It's a mind-bending experience that's sure to leave you questioning your senses.
Ghost of the Last Bear
Ruins of Verdley Castle, Fernhurst
Deep in the Sussex countryside, the ruins of Verdley Castle stand as a testament to a bygone era, and it's here that a rather unusual ghost is said to roam. This location is famously known as the spot where the last wild bear in England met its untimely demise, and locals claim that the creature's spirit still returns, year after year, on Christmas Day. They call it the Final Bear, a haunting manifestation that's as intriguing as it is tragic. On one hand, it's a poignant reminder of the impact humans can have on the natural world; on the other, it's a chilling encounter for anyone unlucky enough to cross paths with it.
The Smuggler's Ghost
Red Lion Public House, Hooe
The Red Lion Public House in Hooe, Sussex, is home to a rather intriguing ghost. Locals and visitors alike have reported sightings of a man dressed in a long, beige coat, believed to be a former member of a smugglers gang that once operated from the very same pub. His presence is often accompanied by strange noises, particularly in the early hours of the morning.
The Transparent Man of Midhurst
Approach to town on the A286, Midhurst
On a misty October morning in 1999, a driver travelling along the A286 into Midhurst witnessed a rather unusual pedestrian. As he slowed down to let the man cross the road, he noticed something strange - he could see right through him. The pedestrian, dressed in a tricorn hat, seemed to be completely transparent. The driver must have been quite taken aback, as he watched the ghostly figure disappear into the trees on the opposite side of the road. This brief encounter has become a well-known local ghost story.
Ghost of Olivia at The Spread Eagle Hotel
The Spread Eagle Hotel, Midhurst
The Spread Eagle Hotel has a long history dating back to 1430, and it's said that the ghost of Olivia still roams its halls. According to reports, her presence is felt in Room 6, where visitors have reported indentations on the bed as if someone sat there.
Roman Soldier Ghost
The Castle Public House, Chichester
The Castle Public House in Chichester is home to a rather unusual ghost, a Roman soldier who's said to make appearances within the pub. It's believed he walks the boundary of the old city wall before popping in for a visit. His presence is noted in various parts of the pub, with reports of him being seen and causing disruptions, particularly in the loft area where unseen hands have been known to cause a ruckus. While there's no clear evidence of what triggers his visits, it's thought that he might be a displaced warrior from Roman times.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Mill Hill
