1. NatWest Bank (Formerly The George Inn)
Before it became a bank, the NatWest on George Street was a bustling pub with a dark past linked to a sinister figure known as “Old Mother Hotwater.” Legend has it that she lured travellers to their doom, turning them into soup in a story reminiscent of Sweeney Todd. Next time you’re nearby, keep an eye out for shadowy figures – they might just be remnants of the infamous George Inn’s haunted history.
2. Croydon Minster
Croydon Minster, a landmark that dates back to Saxon times, has witnessed centuries of history. Among its haunted inhabitants is the spirit of Archbishop Gilbert Sheldon is said to have mourned his ruined tomb following a fire in 1867, reportedly haunting the grounds at 5:45 pm—the time of his death. While his ghostly presence has diminished since the tomb’s restoration in 1960, the wailing spirit of churchgoer Elizabeth Finch, still haunts the church premises. Visitors report seeing her wandering through the graveyard, adding to the Minster’s haunting allure.
3. The Ship
Located on the High Street, The Ship has been a beloved local pub since 1640, originally known as the ‘Shipe’ and even the ‘Sheep.’ This historic establishment is steeped in ghostly lore, with numerous reports from regulars who claim to have encountered spirits lurking within its walls. The former landlord, Dean Terry, found the tales so intriguing that he adapted them into a film titled Locked In, which showcases the pub’s haunted reputation. Whether you’re stopping by for a drink or just a good scare, The Ship promises an experience that’s both spirited and spirited!
4. Whitgift Almhouses
The Whitgift Almhouses, a structure steeped in history since the 16th century, is rumoured to be haunted by a mysterious hunched figure. Legend has it that this ghost is the spirit of a man who met a tragic end by falling from the roof onto his own sword. Keep an eye out for this spectral presence—you might just catch a glimpse of history itself.
Croydon’s haunted places offer a unique glimpse into the borough’s rich history, intertwined with tales of the paranormal.
So, this Halloween, whether you’re a local or just passing through, don’t miss the chance to explore these haunted hotspots. Who knows? You might just find yourself sharing a drink with a ghost or two!
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Sources:
https://www.croydonadvertiser.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife/the-15-creepiest-places-croydon-499672
https://archive.org/stream/shortchronicleco00andeuoft/shortchronicleco00andeuoft_djvu.txt
https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/9345495.croydons-inhabitants-from-beyond-the-grave/
https://www.mylondon.news/news/nostalgia/croydon-haunted-pub-customers-history-21111011
https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/4331064/haunted-croydon-strange-croydon
