Blickling Hall is a handsome house that boasts gothic architecture and plenty of atmosphere. However, the old Tudor house that once stood here is what truly made its ghostly name. It is said that Anne Boleyn continues to haunt her childhood home, carrying her own severed head as she walks the corridors.
Sir John Fastolf, an English soldier and the owner of Blickling estate in the 15th century (believed to be the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Falstaff) is also said to haunt Blickling. Today, visitors can roam numerous museums, stay in charming cottages or explore the 1,600 acres of woodland, parkland and farmland. nationaltrust.
org.uk Hinton Ampner is an impressive neo-Georgian mansion that has been remodelled several times. Thought to be the inspiration for Henry James’ Bly Manor, Hinton Ampner gained its ghoulish reputation in the 1700s when the owners complained of hearing doors slam and ghostly voices raised in anger, and seeing figures that disappeared before they could be confronted.
Today Hinton Ampner is open to the public, who can explore its beautiful rooms and art and ceramics collections, and stroll the manicured gardens. The house also hosts family-friendly events for Halloween and beyond. nationaltrust.
org.uk Woodchester Mansion is a rambling, unfinished Victorian gothic masterpiece in a pretty Cotswolds valley near Nympsfield village, close to Stroud. Legend has it that in 1868 one of the workmen was mysteriously murdered, causing the others to flee, leaving.
