Ballinagarde House, located near Ballyneety in County Limerick, Ireland, dates back to the 18th century. Built in 1774 by the Croker family, the mansion later became known as “The House of the Scorpions” due to its notorious haunting. The property gained its sinister reputation after Richard Croker allegedly made a pact with the devil, promising his soul in exchange for a pair of boots that would allow him to ride his horse up and down the walls.

According to local lore, when the devil came to collect Croker’s soul, the man tried to outwit him by hiding in a hollow tree. However, the devil discovered his whereabouts and dragged him away, leaving claw marks on the walls of the house. These marks are said to still be visible today.

Visitors to Ballinagarde House have reported numerous paranormal experiences over the years. Some claim to have seen the ghost of Richard Croker himself, often described as a tall figure dressed in 18th-century attire. Others have witnessed apparitions of servants and children roaming the halls and grounds.

One of the most frequently reported phenomena is the sound of horse hooves galloping up and down the walls of the house, believed to be connected to Croker’s ill-fated bargain. Unexplained noises, such as footsteps and whispers, are also commonly heard throughout the property. Some visitors have even reported feeling an oppressive atmosphere and sensing an unseen presence watching them.