Aylestone Hall
Aylestone Hall in Leicester, England dates back to the 13th century. The Grade II listed building has a rich history, serving as a manor house for centuries before becoming a youth hostel in the 1950s. It was originally owned by the de Aylestone family and later passed through various noble hands, including the Vernon family in the 15th century.
The hall is said to be haunted by several ghosts. One of the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a young woman in a white dress, believed to be Alice Vernon. According to local legend, Alice was locked in a room by her husband and starved to death. Visitors have claimed to see her ghost wandering the corridors and gardens.
Another reported spirit is that of a monk, often seen in the grounds near the old chapel. Witnesses describe a hooded figure that appears and disappears suddenly. Some speculate this could be related to the hall’s proximity to Leicester Abbey.
There have also been accounts of poltergeist activity, with objects reportedly moving on their own and doors slamming shut unexpectedly. Some visitors have reported feeling sudden cold spots and an overwhelming sense of unease in certain areas of the building.
In the 1970s, a caretaker allegedly encountered the ghost of a young boy in Victorian-era clothing. The apparition reportedly vanished when approached. Other staff members have reported hearing children’s laughter and footsteps when the building was empty.
The cellars are said to be particularly active, with reports of shadowy figures and unexplained noises. Some have claimed to hear the sound of chains rattling, leading to speculation about the hall’s possible connection to the slave trade, though historical evidence for this is lacking.
Address
Aylestone Hall, 22-24 Old Church Street, Leicester, LE2 8ND, United KingdomOld Church Street
LE2 8ND Leicester, England,