The county of Cheshire in the north-west of England has a rich and varied history and is home to a number of haunted buildings and sites. The city of Chester itself has a recorded history dating back around four thousand years and was a Roman stronghold during their occupation of the country. It is reported that every town in the county has at least one ghost. Here are just a few examples of reported apparitions in the region.
George & Dragon Hotel, Chester
The hotel is situated outside the city walls and is said to be haunted by the ghost of a Roman centurion. He can be heard walking the length of the first floor, passing through many walls. It is thought that the hotel had been built on the site of a Roman cemetery although another explanation offered is that the hotel is on the path of an old Roman road. The footsteps have also been heard in the cellar, which would be approximately the same level as the old road’s surface.
Lyme Hall, Disley
The hall dates back to the fourteenth century and is now run by the National Trust. It is reported to be haunted by the ghost of Blanche, mistress of Sir Piers Legh who died in battle in 1422. Her spirit is said to follow a ghostly funeral procession for him, as when alive she was unable to attend his funeral as their relationship was a secret. Sightings of the funeral procession have become fewer over the years but she apparently still walks the same path. Blanche is also thought to be the lady in white who has been seen several times in the house.
Lyceum Theatre, Crewe
Built on the site of an old graveyard, the theatre boasts three ghosts. A monk has been seen in the areas beneath the auditorium, though recent sightings place him in the pub behind the theatre. An old actor has been seen by the stage door and the third ghost is a ballet dancer who is said to have hung herself in the theatre. Attempts to exorcise the spirits have been unsuccessful as they are still seen from time to time. At one production in the 1970s the entire cast reported seeing the dancer and the actor watching the performance from one of the boxes.
There are several paranormal investigation groups in the area and enthusiasts can take part in investigations and ghosts watches at a number of venues.
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