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HAUNTED LOCATIONS

Wimborne

Nestled in the heart of Dorset, the charming town of Wimborne boasts a history that stretches back over a thousand years, filled with stories of ancient rituals, tragic events, and the lingering presence of the past. But beneath its picturesque streets and historical landmarks lies a darker, more mysterious side—one where the supernatural still seems to echo through the ages. From eerie apparitions in centuries-old buildings to ghostly footsteps in quiet lanes, Wimborne is a town steeped in paranormal tales.

Top Haunted Locations

Merley House

Merley House, a striking Georgian manor, has stood for nearly 300 years, its rich and mysterious history as captivating as its architecture. Located just south of Wimborne Minster, the house is nestled in the countryside of Dorset, with a grand Portland stone façade, Ionic columns, and sweeping balconies—testaments to the vision of its creator.

Originally known as Myrle, the estate was owned by the Lords of Canford before being purchased by Ralph Willett in 1751. Willett, a passionate architect, transformed the property into the grand three-story house we see today. In 1772, he added two wings, one of which housed his vast library. Unfortunately, these wings were demolished in the early 1800s after the collection was auctioned by Willett’s son.

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The estate also featured a walled garden and an orangery, once home to exotic birds. The property changed hands several times, eventually being bought by Ivor Guest, 1st Lord of Wimborne, and later Angus Valdemar Hambro, who restored the house in 1927. During WWII, the War Office requisitioned the house, and after the war, it was sold and reduced to 270 acres, with the house converted into flats.

In the 1960s, the current owners began a holiday park to fund further restoration. Today, Merley House is a venue for events, with its eerie atmosphere lingering despite modern renovations.

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Merley House is notorious for its paranormal activity. Staff and visitors have reported seeing the ghostly figure of a Victorian woman, often near the grand staircase. Her appearance is marked by a sudden chill in the air, leading many to believe she is a former resident who still roams the halls.

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Another unsettling presence is that of a young child, whose laughter and footsteps are heard echoing through the empty rooms. This playful spirit contrasts sharply with the cold, somber energy of the adult apparition.

Other strange occurrences include flickering lights, doors opening and closing on their own, and a constant feeling of being watched. These eerie phenomena, combined with the house’s dark past, make Merley House a magnet for ghost hunters and those fascinated by the supernatural.

Merley House stands as a haunting reminder of the past, where the living and the dead coexist in the shadows. With nearly three centuries of history and restless spirits, it remains a place where secrets may still be whispered to those brave enough to listen.

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Ghostly Nights are extremely proud to be able to host an event here, book tickets now!

Knowlton Church

Located in the rural countryside near Wimborne, the haunting ruins of Knowlton Church are a striking reminder of centuries past. The church, which dates back to the 12th century, sits on a site that has long been associated with ancient rituals and mysterious happenings. The church was originally part of a larger complex that included a circular burial mound—an ancient barrow—and was believed to have once been a pagan site before Christian worship took over.

Knowlton Church’s striking ruins stand within a small, tranquil graveyard, but the serenity belies the dark stories that have surrounded it for centuries. In the 18th and 19th centuries, local legend spoke of strange lights and shadows seen around the church at night, and mysterious voices were said to be heard from the ruins. Some locals believed the area to be cursed, while others whispered of pagan rituals that had once taken place at the site, perhaps leaving a lingering supernatural presence.

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Paranormal activity at Knowlton Church is frequently reported. Visitors often speak of a cold, unsettling atmosphere around the ruins, and some have claimed to see shadowy figures wandering near the church’s crumbling walls. The area is known for its eerie silence, with the occasional sound of footsteps and whispers that cannot be explained. One of the most chilling stories comes from those who have witnessed a glowing light flickering in the churchyard at night, believed by many to be the restless spirits of those who once worshiped here or even earlier pagan worshippers who never left.

Some say the stone circle that once stood near the church site holds the key to the church’s ghostly activity. Known for its association with ancient rituals and sacrifices, the stone circle is thought to be a conduit for the supernatural. Ghost hunters who have visited the area report feeling a sense of unease, with many experiencing sudden drops in temperature, strange sounds, and the feeling of being watched.

The Old Thatch

Just a short drive from Wimborne lies the village of Wimborne Saint Giles, home to The Old Thatch, a quaint cottage with a dark history. This charming thatched-roof building, which dates back to the 16th century, is a favorite among visitors for its picturesque exterior and rustic charm. However, it is also known for its unsettling hauntings, which have left a chilling mark on both residents and guests.

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The Old Thatch was once a home to various families over the centuries, each with their own stories of strange happenings. The most well-known tale involves the apparition of a young woman in a white dress, who is often seen wandering the rooms of the cottage. It is said that she is the ghost of a former resident who tragically died young and is believed to be trapped in the house, unable to find peace.

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Paranormal activity at The Old Thatch is well-documented, with many who have spent time in the cottage reporting an eerie atmosphere and strange occurrences. The sound of footsteps echoing in empty rooms, the creaking of floorboards, and objects moving on their own are common experiences. The presence of the young woman, often seen at the top of the stairs or in the hallway, adds to the ghostly reputation of the house. Some claim to have even heard her soft sobs or whispers, as though she is searching for something—or someone.

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In addition to the spectral woman, there have been reports of other apparitions, including a man dressed in old-fashioned clothing, who is sometimes seen in the garden or by the fireplace. This figure is thought to be the spirit of a former resident who passed away in the cottage many years ago.

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