The Lake District is a region in the northwest of England, renowned for its picturesque landscape of lakes, mountains, and quaint villages. Rich in history and local folklore, it is no surprise that there are numerous ghost stories and legends associated with this area. Here are a few of the most famous hauntings and supernatural occurrences in the Lake District.
These ghost stories and legends have become part of the Lake District’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these tales add to the mystique and allure of this beautiful region.
Muncaster Castle
Located near the town of Ravenglass, Muncaster Castle is said to be haunted by several ghosts.
Tom Fool
The most famous is Tom Fool, also known as Thomas Skelton, the jester who served at the castle during the 16th century. He is known for playing pranks on visitors and staff members alike.
Tom Fool died around 1600 and created much mischief both dead and alive. When passerbys would stop at the castle for directions to London, Tom would point them in the direction of the quicksand rather than the ford.
Tom may have been a jester, but the local carpenter certainly wasn’t laughing. Under the orders of Sir Ferdinand Pennington, Tom chopped the carpenter’s head off as a punishment for falling in love with Helwise, Sir Pennington’s daughter.
Margaret Pennington
Another ghostly figure is Margaret Pennington, who wanders the halls of the castle, reportedly searching for her two sons who drowned in the nearby River Esk.
Mary Bragg, The Muncaster Boggle
Mary Bragg is one of Muncaster’s less well known ghosts, who met with a violent and untimely end in 1805. A housekeeper in Ravenglass, Mary was in love with the footman at Muncaster. Unfortunately for Mary, so was one of the housemaids, who was not keen on competition.
One night, two men called at Mary’s, claiming her lover was seriously ill. Suggesting they take her to his bedside, the men instead led Mary to a large tree on a lonely road and killed her. Her body was found some weeks later, floating in the River Esk. Her head was so badly damaged after being partially eaten by eels, that the coroner could not say for certain how she died.
The ghost of Mary Bragg can often be seen wandering the grounds of Muncaster, whilst it is claimed that the tree where Mary met with her untimely death began to bleed as it was cut down.
Tapestry Room Ghost
The Tapestry Room is considered the most haunted part of Muncaster castle. Many people have reported hearing a baby crying, and soft singing sounds in that part of the castle. It felt like a mother or nanny was consoling a baby. It has even been identified that the specific room was once the nursery.
In other reports about the Tapestry room, people have heard the weird rattling of the door handle and door opening sounds at night, footsteps, and dragging sounds. In addition, some visitors have mentioned seeing dark masses appearing and disappearing, feeling that someone is sitting with them on the bed, and the temperature drops.
Greta Hall
Situated in Keswick, Greta Hall was once the home of the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Legend has it that the ghost of a woman in a silk dress, known as the “Lady of Greta,” haunts the grounds, appearing on moonlit nights and creating an eerie atmosphere.
The Tale of the Fairy Queen of Borrowdale
In the secluded valley of Borrowdale, there is a tale of a Fairy Queen who resides in a hidden cave. According to legend, the Fairy Queen is a beautiful and powerful being who has the ability to grant wishes to those who seek her out. However, she is very selective about who she grants her favours to and only appears to those who are pure of heart. One story tells of a young shepherd who stumbled upon the Fairy Queen’s cave while tending to his flock. He was granted an audience with her and asked for her blessing to marry his true love. The Fairy Queen granted his wish, but warned him that he must always remain faithful to his wife, or else he would suffer dire consequences.
The Drovers Inn
In the village of Threlkeld, the Drovers Inn is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl named Emily. She was allegedly murdered in the 18th century by a local man, and her spirit is said to roam the inn’s corridors, often heard sobbing.
The Giant Cat of Catbells
According to legend, Catbells Fell was once home to a giant cat that terrorised the local villagers. The cat was eventually defeated by a brave shepherd, who is said to have thrown a boulder at the beast, killing it instantly.
Catbells is said to have earned its name back in a time when wildcats were widespread in Britain, ‘bield’ being an archaic word meaning home, shelter or refuge. So – a place of wildcats, then.
The Legend of the White Trout of Ullswater
In the tranquil waters of Ullswater, there is said to be a magical white trout that holds the key to great fortune. According to legend, the white trout can only be caught by a pure-hearted fisherman who uses a silver hook and line. Once caught, the white trout will grant the fisherman one wish. One story tells of a poor fisherman who caught the white trout and wished for great wealth. His wish was granted, but he soon found that his newfound riches brought nothing but misery and unhappiness. He realised that true happiness cannot be bought with wealth and returned the white trout to the lake, content with his simple life.
The Mortal Man Inn
Located in the village of Troutbeck, the Mortal Man Inn is believed to be haunted by multiple spirits. The most famous is the ghost of a former landlady, who reportedly makes her presence known by rearranging furniture and creating unexplained noises.
The Kirkstone Pass Inn
This historic inn, located on the Kirkstone Pass between Ambleside and Patterdale, is said to be haunted by a spirit known as Ruth Ray. Ruth, a former housemaid, is said to have died in a snowstorm and now wanders the inn, leaving behind a trail of cold spots and unexplained sounds.
Ruth was reported to have been trapped in a sudden and fatal change in weather while walking up the Patterdale Pass. She tragically died in the severe blizzard, and when her frozen corpse was located, they also discovered her baby. The infant had miraculously survived and was returned to the inn. Ruth, on the other hand, is claimed to haunt the inn itself, always warning visitors of the dangers they face when walking the pass.
The Fairy Bridge at Grasmere
In the charming village of Grasmere, there is a small stone bridge that is said to be enchanted by fairies. According to legend, the fairies use the bridge to cross the river and dance in the nearby meadow. Those who are lucky enough to witness the fairy dance are said to be blessed with good luck and fortune. One story tells of a young couple who stumbled upon the fairy dance while walking near the bridge. The fairies invited them to join in the dance, and the couple danced until dawn. When they returned home, they found that their fortunes had greatly improved, and they lived happily ever after. Overall, the Lake District is a place of enchantment and mystery, where tales of fairies and magical beings have been passed down for generations. These enduring stories remind us of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the natural world, and the importance of living with kindness and purity of heart.
The Beast of Cumbria
Keep your eyes peeled, because there’s a big, black panther-like creature roaming the fells of Cumbria – well, so it is said.
There have been more than 40 sightings reported of the animal dubbed the ‘beast of Cumbria’. Facebook groups have even been set up dedicated to sightings, which have occurred across the Lake District.
In fact, in 2011, a Freedom of Information request revealed that Cumbria police had received 40 reports of big cats since 2003. It is possible that it is just someone’s pet feline who has eaten rather a lot of Cumberland sausages, but if you are strolling through the fells, keep your wits about you, just in case.
Moresby Hall Hauntings
Moresby Hall, now a hotel, has had numerous owners and has many stories to tell. The church adjacent to it was erected on the site of an ancient fort, and it was originally built on the site of a Roman fort.
Three bones were discovered in the living room some years ago, and a black shadow has been observed in the area. The present owner claims to have seen the ghost of an old Cavalier strolling the halls, and the tunnel connecting the home to the adjoining church has witnessed a number of strange occurrences. There was enough activity that the television show Most Haunted paid a visit.
Dunmail – The Last King of Cumbria
You may be appreciating the spectacular beauty that surrounds you as you travel down the A591 between Grasmere and Keswick. You are unlikely to be aware of the spirits of slain Cumbrian soldiers making their journey from Grisedale Tarn, high in the mountains, to the roadside, where their great commander, King Dunmail, is supposed to have fallen. According to legend, Malcolm King of Scots and Edmund King of England conspired to depose Dunmail from his Cumbrian throne.
The warrior King was drawn into combat by the duo, and he was murdered in the valley between Thirlmere and Grasmere. His loyal troops heaped stones on his body and tossed his crown into Grisedale Tarn. The stones are still there, and it is told that each year, the soldiers’ ghosts come to the tarn to reclaim the crown and revive the King, only to hear the words “not yet.”
The truth is just as exciting, but less bloody. King Dunmail was the last of the great dynasty of Cumberland rulers, and he offended Edmund, King of England, by establishing alliances with his adversaries. Edmund marched north and won the fight. The specific location is unclear at this time, however it is unlikely to be Dunmail Raise because no burials have ever been discovered there.
It’s also unknown if King Dunmail survived the fight. Some versions claim he died, while others claim he died many years later in Rome. The massive mound of stones at the summit of Dunmail Raise is possibly a border marker between Cumberland and Westmorland, rather than his burial site.
Bjorn The Styhead Ghost
Styhead Pass, located between Wasdale and Borrowdale, is a remote area of the county. There is little evidence of modernity along the trail, and contemporary life appears to be a world away as you stroll its well-worn stones. This high elevation crossing is prone to retaining the mist that falls over the towering fells, and trekkers can soon get blinded by dense fog. It is in this desolate and dramatic location that Bjorn, a 13th-century outlaw, is reported to walk headless, clutching a sack full of live cats. If you are planning a trek this way, you should bring some salt with you to ward off any spirits you may encounter along the route.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Dating back to around 3000 BC, Castlerigg Stone Circle near Keswick is an impressive prehistoric monument. Some visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures and hearing whispers among the stones, especially at dusk or dawn.
The Grey Lady of Levens Hall
Located near Kendal, Levens Hall is a stately home with a history dating back to the 13th century. The ghost of the Grey Lady, believed to be a former resident named Dorothy Southworth, is said to haunt the property. She is often seen in the gardens and corridors, still mourning her lover who was killed by her disapproving family.
The Claife Crier
Lake Windermere has its own set of perilous tales. When the storms ripped the trees and rain lashed down into the lake centuries ago, the ferrymen at Ferry Nab claimed to hear ghostly sounds begging with them to convey their boats across the water.
One young ferryman mocked their anxieties, believing he was braver than the others. He stepped into his boat and began rowing across the lake. When he returned, he was so scared by what he’d seen that he couldn’t talk. He died the next day. The superstitious residents approached a monk who lived on one of Windermere’s islands and asked him if he could exorcise the spirit.
On Christmas Day, he crossed the lake with his bell and bible. Despite his inability to completely evict the spirit, he was able to restrict it to the quarry and forests “until men should walk dry-shod across the lake.” Even today, legends abound of walkers being pursued by a frightening figure in a hood as they approach the heights of Claife at dark.
The Tale of the Rannerdale Bluebells
Every spring, it flowers like bluebells… Jarl Buthar, a Norse leader with a secret fortress in the valley, is mentioned in local tradition. According to legend, he was behind a deadly resistance movement that pushed back Norman invaders in the 11th century.
He was noted for his ferocious attitude and guerilla tactics, which culminated in the Battle of Rannerdale between Burthar’s army and the Normans. The name Buttermere is supposed to be a derivative of “Burthar’s Mere,” and tradition has it that the famed Rannerdale (Ragnar’s Dale) bluebells flourish in their peculiar position due of the blood spilt by the Norman army. The bluebells unusually grow out in the open here rather than in woodland.
The Spectral Hounds of Cumbria
Throughout the Lake District, there have been numerous reports of ghostly hounds, especially in the fells and moorlands. These phantom dogs are often described as being large, black, and silent, with glowing red eyes. They are thought to be omens of death or disaster and are said to roam the countryside, searching for lost souls.
The Ghostly Roman Legion at Hardknott Pass
Hardknott Pass is a remote mountain road that was once the site of a Roman fort known as Mediobogdum. Some travellers have reported seeing a ghostly Roman legion marching along the pass, their footsteps echoing through the misty air. This haunting is believed to be a residual haunting – a replay of past events imprinted on the location.
The Phantom Piper of Loweswater
Loweswater is a small lake in the western part of the Lake District. Local folklore tells of a piper who drowned in the lake centuries ago after being lured into the water by supernatural forces. His ghost is said to wander the shores, playing mournful tunes on his phantom pipes. Some have even claimed to hear the eerie music on still nights.
The Ghost of Swinside Stone Circle
Also known as Sunkenkirk, Swinside Stone Circle is a prehistoric monument located near Millom. Similar to Castlerigg Stone Circle, Swinside has its share of ghostly tales. Visitors have reported seeing a mysterious figure dressed in dark, hooded clothing wandering among the stones, only to vanish without a trace.
The Haunting of St. Olaf’s Church
In the village of Wasdale Head, St. Olaf’s Church is one of the smallest churches in England. It is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a Norse settler named Olaf. Visitors to the churchyard have reported seeing a tall, shadowy figure wearing a Viking helmet, believed to be the spirit of Olaf protecting the grounds.
The Ghost of Skelwith Bridge
Skelwith Bridge is a small village situated in the Langdale Valley. The area is known for its picturesque beauty, but it also has a darker side. Locals and visitors have reported encountering a ghostly figure of a man wandering near the bridge at night. This restless spirit is believed to be a former mill worker who met a tragic end in the nearby river.
The Phantom Horseman of Thirlmere
The scenic reservoir of Thirlmere is surrounded by tales of a ghostly horseman who rides through the area at night. This eerie figure, often seen wearing a flowing cape, is said to be a local landowner who was involved in a deadly dispute. The ghostly horseman is believed to be searching for his killer, who escaped justice in life.
The Crying Child of Newby Bridge
Situated at the southern end of Lake Windermere, Newby Bridge is a small village with a haunting tale. The ghost of a young child, believed to have drowned in the nearby River Leven, is said to haunt the bridge. Visitors have reported hearing the child’s cries late at night, a chilling reminder of the tragic event.
The Lady in White at Rydal Mount
Rydal Mount, once the home of the poet William Wordsworth, is said to be haunted by a mysterious lady in white. She is believed to be the spirit of a woman who died from a broken heart after being betrayed by her lover. The ghostly figure is often spotted wandering the gardens and grounds, seemingly searching for something or someone.
The Phantom Miner of Coniston Copper Mines
The Coniston Copper Mines, located near the village of Coniston, were once a thriving mining operation. They have long been abandoned, but the area is still said to be haunted by the ghost of a miner who died in a tragic accident. Visitors exploring the old mine shafts have reported encountering the phantom miner, his lantern casting an eerie glow in the darkness.
The Cursed Bride of St. Catherine’s Church
Near the town of Boot, St. Catherine’s Church is the setting for a tragic tale of love and betrayal. A bride, abandoned by her groom on their wedding day, is said to have cursed the church before taking her own life. Her restless spirit, known as the Cursed Bride, is believed to haunt the church grounds, wailing and lamenting her lost love.
The Screaming Skull of Threlkeld
In the village of Threlkeld, there is a local legend about a skull with a terrible curse. It is said that the skull belonged to a man who was brutally murdered, and his spirit now haunts the village. Whenever the skull is removed from its resting place, it is said to emit blood-curdling screams, causing misfortune and illness to those who hear it. Only by returning the skull to its rightful place can the curse be lifted.
The Ghostly Coachman of Grasmere
The village of Grasmere, famous for its connections to the poet William Wordsworth, is also home to a supernatural tale. The ghost of a coachman who drowned in Grasmere Lake is said to haunt the area, driving a phantom carriage through the village on stormy nights. The spectral coach, drawn by ghostly horses, has been known to startle travellers and locals alike.
The Haunting of Wray Castle
Located on the western shore of Lake Windermere, Wray Castle is a Victorian neo-gothic mansion with a mysterious past. The castle is said to be haunted by the spirit of a woman who roams the corridors and rooms, accompanied by an unexplained chill in the air. Visitors have reported feeling a presence watching them, while others have heard strange noises and whispers throughout the building.
The Ghost of Bowness-on-Windermere
The Phantom Footsteps of Blackwell House
Blackwell House, an Arts and Crafts masterpiece located near Bowness-on-Windermere, is reputed to be haunted by an invisible presence. Visitors to the house have reported hearing mysterious footsteps in the empty corridors and feeling a sudden chill in certain rooms. Some believe that the spirit of a former resident still walks the halls of the historic home.
The White Lady of Lowther Castle
Located near Penrith, Lowther Castle is an impressive ruin with a haunting past. The castle is said to be haunted by the White Lady, a ghostly figure dressed in a flowing white gown. She is believed to be the spirit of Lady Eleanor, who died of a broken heart after her husband abandoned her. The White Lady has been seen wandering the ruins and gardens, forever searching for her lost love.
The Crying Lady of St. Martin’s Church
St. Martin’s Church, located in the village of Martindale, is an ancient church with a history dating back to the 12th century. The church is said to be haunted by the spirit of a young woman who can be heard crying and sobbing, particularly in the early hours of the morning. The identity of the Crying Lady remains a mystery, but her presence adds an eerie atmosphere to the historic church.
The Spectral Shepherd of Croglin
The village of Croglin, nestled in the Cumbrian countryside, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a shepherd who lost his life in a terrible storm. The shepherd’s spirit is known to appear on the anniversary of his death, walking the hills with his phantom sheepdog and looking after his spectral flock.
The Ghost of Dove Cottage
Located in the village of Grasmere, Dove Cottage was once the home of the poet William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy. The cottage is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a woman named Mary, who is said to have been a friend of the Wordsworth family. Visitors to the cottage have reported feeling her presence in the house, particularly in the bedrooms.
The Haunted Woods of Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter Forest, located near Keswick, is the highest forest in England and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. However, it is also said to be haunted by various spirits, including the ghost of a poacher who was killed in the woods. Those who venture into the forest at night have reported hearing strange noises and seeing shadowy figures moving among the trees.
The Phantom Ship of Ullswater
Ullswater is one of the largest and most picturesque lakes in the Lake District. There have been reports of a ghostly ship sailing the waters of the lake, particularly on foggy nights. The phantom ship is said to be crewed by the spirits of sailors who perished in a long-forgotten maritime disaster.
The Ghost of Nan Bield Pass
Nan Bield Pass is a remote mountain pass located between the Kentmere and Mardale valleys. The pass is said to be haunted by the spirit of an old woman who got lost and perished during a terrible snowstorm. Her ghost is reported to appear during storms, serving as a warning to those attempting to cross the treacherous pass.
The Phantom Black Dog of Tarn Hows
Tarn Hows is a stunning beauty spot in the Lake District, popular for its picturesque lake and wooded surroundings. Visitors have reported sightings of a large, ghostly black dog roaming the area. The phantom canine is said to appear and disappear suddenly, leaving those who encounter it feeling a sense of unease.
The Lady in Black of Brantwood House
Brantwood House, located near Coniston Water, was once the home of the artist and writer John Ruskin. It is said to be haunted by a mysterious Lady in Black, who roams the house and grounds. The identity of this ghostly figure remains unknown, but her presence adds to the atmosphere of the historic property.
The Haunted Tower of Kendal Castle
The ruins of Kendal Castle, situated on a hill overlooking the town of Kendal, are believed to be haunted by the spirit of a woman named Catherine Parr. Legend has it that Catherine, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII, lived in the castle before her marriage to the king. The ghostly figure of Catherine is said to wander the castle’s ruins, particularly on stormy nights.
The Haunting of Calgarth Hall
Calgarth is a notorious sixteenth-century manor house. Kraster Cook and his then-wife, Dorothy, owned it. They had no idea the wickedness that was going to befall them. Despite being rejected at every stage, their long-time neighbour, a local Justice named Myles Philipson, set his sights on Calgarth Hall.
Justice Philipson took matters into his own hands, and accused the Cooks of larceny. As a justice, he was able to carry out this erroneous conviction and sentence them to death. Dorothy Cook cursed Calgarth Hall just before they died. While Philipson drew breath in the structure, she pledged that their wailing heads would haunt the manor.
And, sure enough, when the Philipsons moved into the hall, two shrieking skulls followed. They did everything to get rid of them, even drowning the skulls in the lake, but their screams always echoed around the mansion. Myles’ son sold the hall when his father died, and the skulls haven’t been seen since.
The White Horse of Windermere
According to mythology, the White Horse of Windermere is a warning.
A ghostly white horse is reported to walk from one shore of the lake to the other if there is a threat to the surrounding region. At your risk, disregard the horse’s warning!
The Tizzie-Whizie of Bowness
Bowness has its own unusual creature: the Tizzie-Whizie. A boatman discovered this small horror around 1900. The boatman told accounts about his meeting with the monster to the guests staying at the Stag’s Head Hotel. The shy animals are claimed to enjoy water and to have the body of a hedgehog, the tail of a squirrel, and wings similar to those of a bee.
A former British Military Officer, Eddie went on to study History and then Journalism at Sheffield Hallam University. A keen outdoorsman, he has co-written several books on Outdoor Survival and Wild Camping. Now living in Penrith, Ed is a keen fellrunner.
