Bristol, a city steeped in history and rich with mysterious stories, is home to numerous haunted locations.
The Most Haunted places in Bristol
From eerie pubs to historic vessels, explore the dark side of this vibrant city as we unravel the stories behind the most haunted places in Bristol.
SS Great Britain
Brunel’s SS Great Britain is a historic ship that has experienced numerous tragic events throughout its history, including a cholera outbreak at sea. 140 deaths were recorded on board during the vessel’s 41 year service.
There are many reports of paranormal activity aboard the ship, including doors slamming and phantom footsteps.
The SS Great Britain is said to be haunted by a former captain and a ghostly woman is regularly seen on the Promenade deck.
The former passenger steamship is now permanently dry docked at Great Western Dockyard in the city and is said to be one of the most haunted places in Bristol.
The Redcliffe Caves
The Redcliffe Caves are a network of manmade underground tunnels, which were once used for storing goods during Bristol’s maritime trade.
The caves are said to be haunted by a number of ghosts including a murdered prostitute and a sailor. Visitors have reported hearing whispering voices and growls emanating from the darkest corners of the caves.
Blackbeard’s House
During the 18th century, Bristol was a major hub for pirates operating in the Caribbean, with an estimated 20% of them hailing from the city. Among the most notorious of these pirates was the infamous Captain Blackbeard.
Blackbeard’s birthplace and childhood home, 10 Guinea Street, still stands near the Bristol Harbour. The house dates back to around 1680 and the spirits of a number of sailors are said to haunt the premises.
The Rummer Hotel
The Rummer Hotel is said to be haunted by several ghosts and is considered one of the most haunted places in Bristol. One of the most commonly reported apparitions is that of a woman in a long dress, who is often seen walking through the hotel’s corridors.
The Rummer Hotel dates back to the 1700s and has served as a coaching inn, a private residence, and a public house over the years.
The Llandoger Trow
The Llandoger Trow pub, which dates back to 1664, is said to be haunted by up to 15 ghosts. Visitors often report seeing the spirit of a young boy dressed in 17th century clothing and his footsteps have been heard regularly on the top floor.
Legendary Bristolian pirate Blackbeard is also thought to have visited the Llandoger Trow. With so much history and a plethora of ghosts, many believe it to be the most haunted place in Bristol.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of Bristol’s iconic landmarks, and it has a chilling reputation for being haunted. Reports of paranormal activity include ghostly figures crossing the bridge and phantom screams echoing under the arches.
The bridge has been the site of many tragic deaths and suicides, fuelling speculation around the mysterious sightings and sounds.
Bristol Old Vic Theatre
According to a blog post on Visit Bristol, the Bristol Old Vic Theatre is the country’s longest continuously running theatre and is said to be haunted by the spectre of Sarah McCreadie, a long-serving Theatre Manager who worked there over two hundred years ago.
Her ghost is said to haunt the front of house area and sightings of her have often been accompanied by the smell of lavender.
