By Press Release
The Isle of Wight has been named the second most haunted county in England, just in time for Hallowe’en.
A new study analysed over 10,000 entries on the UK’s Paranormal Database, and found 72 hauntings per 100 square miles on the Island, beaten only by Greater London with 115 sightings; Dorset came third with 42.
A researcher said: “As Hallowe’en approaches, there’s no better time to experience the thrill of being frightened.
“Widely recognised as one of the world’s most haunted islands, the Isle of Wight is tormented by a host of poltergeists, apparitions and spirits. This tiny island, occupying just 127 square miles, boasts an array of historic homes and imposing castles.
Ley lines, which run below the Island, are thought to increase the psychic potential for paranormal sightings.”
Avoid visiting Appuldurcombe House after dark. Constructed in 1702, this formidable home was built on the site of a former monastery. Shadowy entities are frequently spotted in the cellar, and some report being overtaken by a carriage from a bygone age when visiting the house.
Another haunted venue is the site of the long-demolished Knighton Gorges Manor near Newchurch. One of its ghosts is said to be Sir Tristram Dillington, MP for Newport, who committed suicide in 1721 after losing his townhouse in a game of cards. His townhouse was Seal House in Sea Street, Newport, spookily now owned by another former Island MP, Andrew Turner. The ghost of Sir Tristam rides the spirit of his horse, Thunderbolt, every year on the anniversary of the MP’s death on July 7.
Seal House also has its own ghostly resident, a little red-haired boy. Mr Turner said: “I’ve never seen the apparition who is supposed to appear in Seal House myself, but I have met people who claim to have seen him.”
The research was carried out by property experts, Buzz Capital.
Isle of Wight Observer