The Anchor Inn in Canewdon, Essex, dates back to the 16th century and has a rich history intertwined with local folklore and ghostly tales. Originally built as a coaching inn, it served travelers along the old Roman road between London and the coast. The building’s timber frame and thatched roof have been preserved, maintaining its historic character.

Canewdon itself has a reputation for witchcraft, with legends of a coven meeting near the church. This association with the occult has influenced the stories surrounding The Anchor Inn. One of the most persistent ghost stories involves the spirit of a young woman believed to have been accused of witchcraft and hanged nearby. Witnesses claim to have seen her apparition in the inn’s rooms and corridors, often described as wearing period clothing.

Another frequently reported phenomenon is the sound of footsteps on the upper floors when no one is present. Staff and guests have recounted hearing heavy boots walking across creaky floorboards, only to find empty rooms upon investigation.

The inn’s bar area is said to be haunted by a former landlord who allegedly committed suicide on the premises. Patrons have reported glasses moving on their own and the feeling of being watched when alone in the room.

In the 1960s, a local paranormal investigator documented an incident where objects in one of the bedrooms were reportedly thrown across the room by an unseen force. This event coincided with a sudden and inexplicable drop in temperature.

The cellar of The Anchor Inn is another hotspot for paranormal activity, with staff reporting strange noises and an overwhelming sense of unease. Some have claimed to see shadowy figures darting between the barrels and storage areas.