The Starting Gate, a pub located in Walsall, West Midlands, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally built as a coaching inn, it served travelers along the busy Birmingham Road. The establishment gained its current name in the early 20th century, reflecting its proximity to the former Walsall Races track.

Over the years, The Starting Gate has become known for its ghostly occurrences. Staff and patrons have reported unexplained phenomena, particularly in the pub’s cellar and upper floors. One of the most frequently encountered spirits is that of a former landlord, believed to have died on the premises in the 1940s. Witnesses describe seeing a shadowy figure moving behind the bar area, often accompanied by the smell of pipe tobacco.

Another recurring apparition is that of a young woman in Victorian-era clothing, seen wandering the upstairs rooms. Local legend suggests she may have been a maid who worked at the inn during its early days. Her presence is often associated with sudden temperature drops and the sound of footsteps when no one else is present.

In the cellar, staff members have reported feeling an unseen presence and hearing whispered conversations when alone. Objects have been known to move on their own, and some employees refuse to enter the cellar alone due to an overwhelming sense of unease.

The Starting Gate’s paranormal reputation has drawn the attention of ghost hunting groups, who have conducted investigations on the premises. These visits have reportedly resulted in unexplained electronic voice phenomena and anomalous photographs, adding to the pub’s ghostly lore.