The Ancient High House
The Ancient High House in Stafford, England, stands as one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country, dating back to 1595. Originally built for the Dorrington family, this timber-framed structure has witnessed centuries of history and is now home to numerous reported paranormal occurrences.
Many visitors and staff have reported encountering the ghost of a young woman in Victorian-era clothing, believed to be a former servant named Charlotte. She is often seen ascending the stairs or wandering the upper floors, her presence accompanied by a sudden drop in temperature.
The King’s Room, where King Charles I allegedly stayed in 1642, is a hotspot for supernatural activity. Guests have reported feeling an unseen presence watching them and hearing unexplained footsteps when the room is empty. Some have even claimed to see the apparition of a man in 17th-century attire, possibly the king himself.
In the attic, the spirit of a Civil War soldier is said to roam. Witnesses have described seeing a shadowy figure and hearing the sound of heavy boots pacing back and forth. This ghostly soldier is thought to be connected to the building’s use as a military post during the conflict.
The Ancient High House’s cellar is reputed to be particularly active, with reports of disembodied voices, unexplained knocking sounds, and objects moving on their own. Some visitors have experienced feelings of dread and unease in this area, leading to speculation about its dark history.
Staff members have recounted instances of doors slamming shut on their own, lights flickering without explanation, and the sensation of being touched by invisible hands. These experiences have contributed to the Ancient High House’s reputation as one of Stafford’s most haunted locations.