Ettington Park Hotel, a neo-Gothic mansion in Stratford-upon-Avon, has a long and haunted history dating back to the Norman Conquest. The Shirley family owned the estate for over a thousand years before it became a hotel in 1983. During World War II, it served as a nursing home and later a training camp for POWs.

The hotel is reputed to be one of the most haunted in the UK, with numerous ghostly encounters reported over the years. The spirit of Lady Emma Shirley, who died in the 1780s, has been seen gliding down the stairs and through walls. Guests and staff have described hearing the rustle of her dress as she passes.

In the library, the ghost of an elderly man in Victorian clothing has been spotted sitting in a chair, only to vanish when approached. The spirit of a young woman named Mary has been seen in various parts of the hotel, often accompanied by the sound of children playing.

One of the most frequent apparitions is that of a monk or priest in grey robes, believed to date back to when the property was owned by the church. He’s been seen walking the corridors and grounds, particularly near the chapel ruins.

Unexplained footsteps, doors slamming, and objects moving on their own are common occurrences. Some guests have reported feeling a presence in their rooms or being touched by unseen hands. The hotel’s long history of paranormal activity has made it a popular destination for ghost hunters and curious visitors alike.