The Smugglers Inn, located in the Wealden district of East Sussex, dates back to the 16th century and has a rich history steeped in smuggling lore. Situated near the coast, it served as a perfect hideout for smugglers transporting contraband goods inland. The inn’s thick walls and hidden passageways bear witness to its clandestine past.

Over the years, numerous ghostly encounters have been reported at the Smugglers Inn. Staff and guests alike have described seeing the apparition of a tall man dressed in 18th-century attire, believed to be a former smuggler. He’s often spotted in the bar area, seemingly keeping watch over the establishment.

Another frequently reported phenomenon is the sound of heavy footsteps on the upper floors when no one is present. These footsteps are said to traverse the length of the building before abruptly stopping.

In the kitchens, staff have experienced unexplained cold spots and the sensation of being watched. Pots and pans have been known to move on their own, and some employees have reported feeling a ghostly hand on their shoulder while working alone.

Guests staying in the inn’s rooms have recounted waking in the night to see a misty figure at the foot of their bed, which quickly dissipates when acknowledged. Some have also reported hearing whispered conversations in empty corridors, often in archaic language.

Perhaps the most chilling tale involves the ghost of a young woman seen wandering the gardens at night, her dress soaked and her hair streaming with water. Local legend suggests she may have been the victim of a smuggling operation gone wrong.