ghosts

Pirates, Witches and Ghostly Knights: Exploring Great Yarmouth’s Darker Side

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(Image: Haunted Seaside Resort. Source: WordPress 2025)

Great Yarmouth isn’t just a seaside town of sugar donuts and amusement arcades; it’s a place rich in weird tales, ghostly sightings, and strange histories. From pirates to witches, from mystics to mummies, the town bubbles with secrets that float through its streets and graveyards. Join me as we walk through Great Yarmouth’s darker side, exploring haunted corners, overlooked tragedies, and uncanny stories.

Our journey begins in the heart of Great Yarmouth, where the imposing St Nicholas’ Church stares out over the town like a sentinel. Its stones have witnessed hundreds of years of worship, but it has also seen scenes of witchcraft, piracy, and ghostly happenings.

Stop 1: St Nicholas Church, Great Yarmouth

(Image: St Nicholas Church, Gt Yarmouth. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

This church is said to be the biggest parish church in the United Kingdom. Once belonging to a Benedictine priory, its construction of was completed in 1119. Although very little of the original Benedictine church now stands, the base of the current tower is Norman. Expansions and changes were made during the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, the aisles were widened. In the 14th century, the south porch was constructed. In the 15th century, the north wall was equipped with additional windows.

In the 16th century, the church was split into three sections, each of which was used by a different denomination. When the church was renovated in the 19th century, these sections were once again connected. However, a large portion of this work is no longer visible because the majority was completely destroyed by bombing and fire in 1942. Reconstruction of the inside took place from 1957 to 1960.

In the graveyard: English Pirate Attack

(Image: Headstone of David Bartleman. Image: E.Holohan 2023)

In the graveyard here, we find a gravestone that has a rare inscription that refers to an English pirate attack:

“To the memory of David Bartleman, Master of the Brig Alexander and Margaret of North Shields, who on the 31st of Jan 1781 on the Norfolk Coast with only three 3 pounders and ten men and boys nobly defended himself against a cutter carrying eighteen 4 pounders and upwards of a hundred men commanded by the notorious English pirate Fall and fairly beat him off. Two hours after the enemy came down upon him again, when totally disabled, his mate Daniel MacAuley, expiring with the loss of blood and himself dangerously wounded, he was obliged to strike and ransome. He brought his shattered vessel into Yarmouth with more than the honour of a conqueror and died here in consequence of his wounds.  On the 14th of February following in the 25th year of his age”.

This stone, dedicated to the remembrance of David Bartleman, Master of the brig Alexander & Margaret of North Shields, is tucked away in the old church graveyard. On 31st January, 1781, Bartleman bravely defended himself against a cutter with eighteen four-pounder cannons and a crew of up to 100 men while sailing the Norfolk coast with a crew of ten men and boys and only light armament of three-pounders. Fall, an infamous English pirate, commanded the Cutter attacking.

This triumph was fleeting, though, as two hours later Fall’s Cutter struck the unfortunate Brig once more. The battle raged on until the Alexander & Margaret was fully incapacitated. Captain Bartleman found himself in a desperate situation; he had no choice but to surrender and pay a ransom to ensure the safety of his ship and crew. His first mate, Daniel MacAulay, was seriously injured and rapidly losing blood, leaving the captain with little choice to make the difficult decision to pay to secure their release. Then, on 14th February 1781, at the age of 25, he brought his proud but broken vessel into Yarmouth, where he passed away from his wounds.

A stone was placed above the tomb by his father, Alexander Bartleman, to honour the bravery of his son’s death, the courage of his loyal mate, and the notoriety of Fall the Pirate.

Daniel Fall, also known as Fall the Pirate or John Fall, first gained fame in November 1780 when he captured two colliers from Lowestoft South Roads. At that time, he was known as “the noted Daniel Fall, a smuggler and captain of a large privateer.” The frigate Pegasus set sail from Yarmouth in pursuit but failed to locate him. An article in the Ipswich Journal reported that a 20-gun American cutter privateer had seized two large merchant ships off Pakefield, but the man-of-war ‘Fly’ from Hollesley Bay intercepted and took back the stolen goods.

(Image: Pirate Ships Battle. Source: WordPress 2025)

Fall was known to sail under American colours, suggesting that the privateer mentioned might have been his ship. By February 1781, around the time of the attack on the brig Alexander & Margaret and death of David Bartleman, he was spotted on one of the Harwich packet ships, where he raised the American flag and displayed letters of marque from America, France, and Holland. Shortly after, it was reported that Fall, now known as the ‘rebel commodore’, was operating off Orford Ness with a squadron of Dunkirk-based privateers.

In early June 1781, Fall captured the Prince of Wales using two cutters: the Liberty, which he had recently stolen from a Scottish port, and the Fearnought, which he commanded.

By April 1782, Fall was reported to be heading into the Irish Sea, but after that, he seemed to disappear from the pages of history. No further sightings or reports of his activities surfaced along the East Coast. What happened to the notorious pirate Fall after his last raid: did he perish in battle like his poor opponent David Bartleman, or vanish into obscurity?

Witches Memorialised

Also in the churchyard we find the memorial plaque commemorating the five women hanged at North Denes during the Matthew Hopkins Witch Trials who were buried here; Bridget Howard, Margaret Blackbourne, Alice Clisswell, Elizabeth Bradwell, and Elizabeth Dudgeon. They are located in the churchyard’s north side. Why were the supposed witches buried here, in consecrated ground, when most others accused of such crimes were cast out to the crossroads?

(Image: Witches Memorial plaque. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

The history of Great Yarmouth is associated with the 17th-century witch hunts, especially in 1645 when Matthew Hopkins, the so-called Witchfinder General, paid the town a visit. Many people, both men and women, were tried for witchcraft at this time, and some of them were found guilty and put to death. The five women were hanged at nearby North Denes during these Witch Trials. Many of the accused in Great Yarmouth, according to historians, were simply social misfits or victims of unrelated disputes, not actual practitioners of witchcraft.

It has never been explained why the supposed witches were buried in the churchyard. According to a long-standing custom, people who are found guilty of crimes, including witchcraft, are typically buried in unconsecrated ground or at a crossroads, where their spirits would be flummoxed and unable to return and cause trouble in a society that values godliness.

In reality, according to Christian tradition, outcasts and suicides were the only people buried on the north side of a churchyard. The unbaptised, excommunicated, strangers, vagrants, executed criminals, and people suspected of practicing witchcraft were all included in this proclamation. This was frequently called “lying out of the sanctuary” or “burial without the sanctuary.” The saying “the devil walks in dark places” stems from ancient times, and was initially used to describe the darker parts of a churchyard, particularly the north side of a building.

Thomas Vaughn: Body Snatcher

Also at the graveyard we can see the plaque remembering local body snatcher, Thomas Vaughn. Ten remains were taken from Great Yarmouth’s St. Nicholas Churchyard in 1827 by Thomas Vaughn and his two accomplices. In the end, he was imprisoned, but only for half a year! For more on this, read on for Body Snatchers Row 6.

(Image: Thomas Vaughn plaque. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

Oliver Tomkins: Cannibal Victim

Situated in the graveyard you can see the grave marker of Oliver Tomkins. There is likely no body buried under the marker, as this Great Yarmouth citizen, about 120 years ago, was rewarded by cannibals for his attempts to spread the word of God by being killed, dismembered, cooked, and eaten. This was all within hours of Oliver Tomkins’ final diary entry following his arrival on a Papua New Guinean island inhabited by cannibals: “they tried hard to persuade us to come ashore…we promised we would visit their village in the morning.”  The reward for his visit to the village was to be his host’s dinner!

(Image: grave marker of Oliver Tomkins. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

Mystic: Margery Kempe

(Image: Marjory Kempe plaque. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

Next up at St Nicholas’ Churche we find Margery Kempe’s blue plaque.

Many believe that “The Book of Margery Kempe,” written by the English Christian mystic Margery Kempe (c. 1373–after 1438), is the first autobiography in the English language. Kempe’s domestic struggles, her extensive pilgrimages to holy sites in Europe and the Holy Land, and her mystical interactions with God are all chronicled in her book.

Margery Kempe was considered a mystic due to her profound and personal relationship with God. This was marked by visions, conversations with Jesus, Mary, and other religious figures, and via active participation in biblical events through these visions. She also embraced a highly devotional and pious lifestyle, which included prolonged weeping, fasting, and pilgrimages, which were all seen as evidence of her spiritual connection

Kempe prayed in St Nicholas church before leaving on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and a blue plaque now commemorates this.

Churchyard Hauntings

As well as being a place of rest, the church graveyard is also known for its unquiet residents. According to legend, at the height of “Egyptomania,” in the 1900s, a well-wisher donated the coffin of an ancient Egyptian princess to the Priory school next door to Great Yarmouth Minster. People were fascinated by mummies in this period because they believed that the ancient bodies had supernatural abilities. Some mummies were even ground into a dust for use as medicine or shown at gruesome “unwrapping parties.” Mummies were the height of fashion at this time!

Unfortunately, many mummies suffered in Europe’s humid environment after being removed from their natural hot, dry resting places. The princess mummy was kept in its case on display in a classroom, but it was eventually agreed that the only sensible thing to do when the mummy inside started to smell was to bury it in the church graveyard.

(Photo by antonio filigno on Pexels.com)

The Vicarage and St. Nicholas’ Church started to experience after dark knocking noises on their doors shortly after the burial; an investigation into the tapping noises revealed no reason.

The vicar was frequently confused and anxious when he answered the vicarage door to no one after hearing loud bangs. A decision was made to return the mummy to its casket since the noises were becoming unbearable and seemed to be coming from nowhere.

A mummified arm that had been mistakenly left behind when the body was hurriedly buried in the middle of the night was discovered when the box was opened. It seems, it had been begging to be freed and reunited with its body! The noises stopped and there was finally peace once the arm was interred with the rest of the body. The arm left behind; was it an accident, or something more sinister keeping the dead from their rest?

(Image: Ghostly knights. Source: WordPress 2025)

Along with tales of unquiet mummies, the churchyard also has takes of spectral horsemen. Ghostly apparitions were allegedly wreaking havoc in the graveyard in October 1922. A woman reported to the local police that she had witnessed three ghosts in shining armour riding horses across the churchyard.

As word spread, hundreds of people returned night after night to catch a glimpse through the railings, wanting to see these spirits for themselves. However, no further apparitions were seen. A bet was made to anyone who would camp out in the churchyard and to keep watch for the knights, but it was never taken up and the town’s citizens ultimately lost interest.

From the graveyard’s shadowy corners, we make our way down to Row Six. At first glance, it’s just another of Great Yarmouth’s narrow passageways, but this one earned a gruesome reputation as ‘Body Snatcher’s Row’.

Stop 2: Row Six- Body Snatcher’s Row

(Image: Body Snatchers Row sign. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

Row six, Body Snatchers’ Row, leads from St Nicholas’ churchyard to Northgate Street and is a reminder of when human bodies were stolen to order for anatomical dissection in London. In 1827, Thomas Vaughn, a resident of Row six, and his two henchmen, stole ten bodies from the churchyard. Vaughan was employed by Sir Astley Cooper, a surgeon to Queen Victoria. Vaughan used sawdust to conceal the bodies and transported them to London, where they were used for medical training purposes.  Vaughan was tried at the Norwich assizes and received only 6 months imprisonment for this offence. He was later transported to Australia having been caught in possession of clothing he had taken from a corpse. In those days, sadly, theft of property was seen as a far more serious offence than stealing dead bodies.

Leaving behind the grisly world of stolen corpses, we come to a calmer, more literary stop. At 37–39 King Street, we arrive the birthplace of Anna Sewell, the author of Black Beauty. This is a house where tales of compassion for animals meet stories of ghostly presences

Stop 3: Anna Sewell House and The Man in the Window

The author of Black Beauty was born at Anna Sewell House on Church Plain, in Great Yarmouth. In 2021, Redwings Horse Sanctuary purchased the house, which dates to the 16th or 17th century. The property is now used by Redwings to highlight Anna Sewell’s renowned novel and her influence in animal protection.

(Image: Anna Sewell’s birthplace in Church Plain. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

On 24 November 1877, for just £40 and without a royalty condition, Anna Sewell sold Jarrold & Sons the entire rights to her book “Black Beauty”. “Black Beauty: his grooms and Companions, the autobiography of a horse” was the title under which the book was published. Since then, the book has sold about 30 million copies worldwide, making it the sixth best-selling book in the English language.

The adventures and misfortunes of a horse named Beauty are the subject of Anna’s tale, which was penned at the White House on Spixworth Road in Old Catton. The story was written in the first person from Beauty’s point of view. Anna survived long enough to learn of its success, but she was never able to witness the book’s eventual bestseller status. In April 1878, she passed away in Old Catton, Norwich, and was buried at the Quaker Chapel in nearby Buxton Lamas, where Anna had family.

In Great Yarmouth, a woman once reported that she saw a strange apparition in the window of the birthplace of the Black Beauty author. According to the eyewitness, Professional psychic medium Freda Joy, a man with “period features” who may have been the sibling of author Anna Sewell can be seen in photos shot seconds apart. Joy stated: “I couldn’t believe what I saw.  I took the pictures within seconds apart and saw what looked like an image of man in the window.”

From this modest town house to a building spectacle, our path now takes us to the Hippodrome, Britain’s only surviving purpose-built circus, where sounds of joyful laughter mingle with shadows of the ghost of its flamboyant creator

Stop 4: The Hippodrome Circus, Where the Showman Goes On

The Great Yarmouth area has a long history of circuses, with travelling circuses appearing as early as 1815 and resident circuses from 1845.

(Image: Hippodrome Circus, Great Yarmouth. Souce: E.Holohan 2023)

The Great Yarmouth Hippodrome, built in 1903, is a landmark and Britain’s only surviving purpose-built circus building that still regularly hosts circus performances. Designed by Ralph Scott Cockrill, it features a unique, sinking ring that can be transformed into a pool for water spectacles. The Hippodrome was the inspiration of George Gilbert, a former circus performer who became a successful showman. The building’s facade features Art Nouveau details, including terracotta and brickwork.

The Hippodrome has hosted a variety of entertainment, including water shows, stage plays, cinema, and cine variety. During wartime, the Hippodrome was even used as a military practice shooting range.  The ghost of showman George Gilbert is also said to walk the upper balcony of the Hippodrome.

Peter Jay bought the building in 1979, restoring the circus floor that sinks into a water feature in 1981 when he presented his first show.  The Jay family continue to produce Circus Spectaculars four times a year, with Jack Jay as ringmaster and producer and Ben Jay as manager. The Hippodrome houses a collection of historical artifacts, props, and other circus memorabilia, curated by Peter Jay.

From the Hippodrome Circus, we make our way walking south on St George’s Road, turn left onto South Quay. Here we enjoy the scenic views along the quay.

Stop 5: A Stroll Along the South Quay

Take a stroll down the historic South Quay. It has been said that there were so many boats leaving Yarmouth in 1913 that you could cross the river from by leaping from one boat to another. The magnificent buildings along the river are a reminder of this port’s history. The Old Merchant’s House and the Great Yarmouth Row Houses are located just off South Quay.

The Rows were a network of winding alleyways where port workers lived.

(Image: The South Quay, circa 18th or 19th Century. Source: getarchive.net 2025)

The South Quay Elizabethan House has a reputation for being haunted. Some have called it a “hotbed of paranormal activity”. The Elizabethan House Museum is a historic 16th-century house, which showcases Elizabethan domestic life. It was constructed by affluent trader Benjamin Cowper in 1596, and when Cowper’s fortune grew, it was expanded in the early 1600s. In 1635, the mansion was bought by the town bailiff and local businessman, John Carter. Shortly before the Civil War, it developed as a meeting spot for Parliamentarians, most famously hosting a meeting in 1648 to discuss the future of King Charles I. John Carter’s sons, John and Nathaniel, inherited the house after his death in 1667 and remained there until their deaths in the early 1700s.

The house is said to have a history of paranormal events, including sightings of a ghostly woman, and reports of disembodied voices and unexplained noises The Elizabethan House is a popular location for ghost hunts and paranormal investigations due to its reputation as a haunted location.

As we continue west along the South Quay and head a little deeper through the side streets, we now encounter the Time and Tide Museum, located at 5 South Quay.

Stop 6: Time and Tide Museum

(Image: Reconstructed Victorian Row. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

The Time and Tide Museum is housed in one of the best-preserved Victorian herring curing facilities in the United Kingdom.

The Tower Fish Curing Works, which was first constructed in the mid 1800s and expanded in 1880, is now home to the Time and Tide Museum. The works finally closed their doors in 1988 and The Tower Fish Curing Works was acquired in 1998 with the goal of turning it into a museum. This museum now showcases the history of Great Yarmouth, its herring business and social history.

At this museum you can discover Great Yarmouth’s varied history, its rich maritime and fishing heritage and some of the fascinating characters who made their living from the sea. You can even wander through a reconstructed Victorian ‘Row’ and see inside a fisherman’s home. You can soak in the atmosphere of the 1950s quayside, and hear exciting tales of shipwrecks and gripping rescues.  The museum also contains some items of Fortean interest, such as the walking cane of Robert Hales, the East Somerton Giant.

Finally, we retrace our steps by walking north along South Quay, turning right onto St Nicholas Road and then heading back to the church.

And so, our walk comes full circle, to St Nicholas’ Church. In just a short wander through Great Yarmouth’s streets, we’ve uncovered tales of pirates and body snatchers, witches and mystics, circus ghosts and cannibal victims. This is a town where history and folklore blur, where the past is never quite at rest. Next time you stroll along these cobbles or pause by the quay, perhaps you’ll sense it too: the unseen layers of Great Yarmouth’s darker side.

(Image: The Spook Express, Joyland. Source: E.Holohan 2023)

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Book Review: Paranormal Perspectives: One Big Box of ‘Paranormal Tricks’?: From Ghosts to Poltergeists to the Theory of Just One Paranormal Power by John Fraser

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A Fresh Take on the Paranormal

Have you ever wondered if ghosts, poltergeists, and all things that go bump in the night are connected by a single unseen force? John Fraser’s book, “One Big Box of ‘Paranormal Tricks’? From Ghosts to Poltergeists to the Theory of Just One Paranormal Power” dives headfirst into this idea, taking readers on a journey through the unexplained with a perfect blend of curiosity and critical thinking. Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal enthusiast or just stepping into the eerie world of the unknown, this book has something for everyone.

John Fraser is a Council member of the Society for Psychical Research and former Vice Chair for Investigations at the Ghost Club, the two oldest paranormal research groups in the UK. His studies have covered hypnotic regressions, vampire folklore, and conventional paranormal research.

Active in the field since the 1980s, John took part in long-running hypnotic regression experiments and later conducted research into supernatural events at Sandwood Bay. Since 2015, he has been investigating witness testimony related to paranormal activity at The Cage in St Osyth. He has also contributed to media discussions on the paranormal.

(Paranormal Perspectives Book. Image Source: E.Holohan 2025)

John Fraser’s book is part of the ‘Paranormal Perspectives’ series, which seeks to investigate what the paranormal means to a selection of writers from various backgrounds. Fraser explores paranormal phenomena under a unified theory, the theory of ‘one paranormal power’. He does this while detailing his personal journey into the paranormal, from his early sparks of interest as a youngster to his time as a seasoned researcher and Society for Psychical Research Council member. This book has appeal to paranormal believers and sceptics alike, as it is an engaging investigation that offers readers a unique blend of philosophical investigation and memoir.

A Journey Through the Unexplained

Fraser begins by explaining how it all began for him. At university, he studied philosophy and economics. He resigned from his position as an internal auditor and organised a road trip that included stops at several haunted places. He then discusses the important paranormal figures who have impacted him, like Guy Lyon Playfair and Harry Price.

Fraser then explores the nature of paranormal phenomena in chapter three, looking at hypnotic regression, ghosts, poltergeists, and other unexplained events, such as the encounter in Rendlesham Forest. Fraser concludes by discussing his theory of the “One Paranormal Power”, which proposes that there is a single underlying force that underlies all paranormal activity.

What Makes This Book Stand Out?

Fraser has a gift for balancing scepticism with an open mind, something that’s not always easy in the paranormal field. He doesn’t just present eerie encounters and theories; he challenges them, inviting readers to explore every possibility. Are poltergeists separate from ghosts, or could they be different manifestations of the same mysterious force? If there’s just one underlying paranormal power at work, what could it be? These are the kinds of questions Fraser poses, leaving you pondering long after you’ve turned the final page.

His writing style is conversational and immersive, making even the most complex theories easy to digest. Fraser’s account is well-written, thoroughly researched, and adopts an engaging and thought-provoking approach, employing great storytelling to make sure the book is not just informative but also entertaining and easy to read. Every chapter skillfully blends reflective analysis of paranormal phenomena along with personal tales.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book for me is Fraser’s recounting of his initial plunge into the paranormal field, in which he gives vivid accounts of his early experiences. Here, he describes the events and encounters that sparked his interest in the unexplained. These explanations are complemented by his comments on mentors and role models who had a significant impact on his approach and knowledge.

Notably, Fraser honours well-known paranormal individuals such as Harry Price and Colin Wilson, whose pioneering work served as the foundation for his own investigations. I relished the narrative of his interactions with Peter Underwood, which demonstrated their genuine connection and friendship. This examination of his own influences gives readers an understanding of the intellectual heritage that informs his viewpoints.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Fraser’s book is how it subtly engages with the long-standing debate between psychological explanations and supernatural interpretations of paranormal phenomena. While he presents compelling cases for the existence of ghosts and poltergeists, he also acknowledges alternative explanations, such as environmental factors (electromagnetic fields, infrasound, or other environmental conditions), cognitive and neurological perspectives and parapsychological explanations (e.g., psychokinesis—particularly in relation to poltergeist activity).

(Author John Fraser. Image Source: J.Fraser)

This balanced approach makes the book appealing to both believers and sceptics. However, a deeper engagement with scientific and psychological studies on anomalous experiences would have added even more weight to his arguments.

Where the Book Could Go Further

While the book is packed with intriguing insights, some of the scientific explanations could go deeper. If you’re the type who loves diving into parapsychological research, you might find yourself wanting a bit more hard data and experimental analysis. Of course, there are many other books out there already that cover such aspects in more detail that the reader can seek out for further research if required.

If you’re new to the paranormal field, this book is an excellent gateway. Fraser keeps the tone inviting and avoids overwhelming jargon, making it easy to follow even if you’ve never read a book on the subject before. For the seasoned enthusiasts, even if you’ve been delving into the paranormal for years, you’ll appreciate Fraser’s fresh take on long-standing debates. While some sections may feel like familiar ground, the way he ties different phenomena together offers new food for thought.

Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Paranormal Enthusiasts?

Fraser’s Paranormal Perspectives isn’t just a book—it’s an invitation to think, question, and explore. It challenges readers to reconsider what they believe, weigh the evidence, and entertain new possibilities. Whether you’re in it for the eerie case studies, the deep theoretical discussions, or just the thrill of the unknown, this book delivers. So, what do you think—could all paranormal phenomena really be part of one great mystery? Or are we only scratching the surface of something even stranger?

John Fraser’s book, “Paranormal Perspectives: One Big Box of ‘Paranormal Tricks’?: From Ghosts to Poltergeists to the Theory of Just One Paranormal Power”, is available from Amazon and also from some independent bookshops.

CASE FILE: UNCANNYCON 2024

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STATUS: RESOLVED

LOCATION: Southbank Centre, London, UK

DATE: December 2024 SUBJECT: The Uncanny Convergence

Summary of Findings

Experts, enthusiasts, and witnesses of the unexplained converged at the Southbank Centre this past weekend for UncannyCon 2024, an extraordinary gathering dedicated to uncovering the truths behind our world’s mysteries. What unfolded was a mix of chilling revelations, healthy debates, and eerie encounters that left attendees both spellbound and intrigued. Below, you will find a dossier summarising the key phenomena from this event. Proceed with caution: the uncanny lingers within.

Case Note #1: Meet the Witnesses – The Haunted Speak

Subjects: Heather (Oxford Exorcism), Vee (Ghost Horses of Averham), Amanda (Elton’s Phone), Helen (Meadow Cottage).

Details: Witnesses to some of Uncanny’s most infamous cases convened to share their harrowing encounters. The session began with an unsettling energy, as each witness recounted experiences ranging from spectral riders to haunted phones and poltergeist-ridden cottages. The air grew heavier as Heather’s recounting of The Oxford Exorcism induced chills throughout many in the audience. The session raised a terrifying question: how does one live when haunted by the inexplicable?

Case Note #2: Borley Rectory – Hoax or Haunting?

Subjects: Sean O’Connor, Jon Culshaw, Ciaran O’Keeffe, Deborah Hyde.

Analysis: Dubbed “Britain’s Most Haunted House,” Borley Rectory’s lore was dissected in forensic detail. Paranormal sceptics Ciaran O’Keeffe and Deborah Hyde faced off with Sean O’Connor, author of The Haunting of Borley Rectory. Comedian Jon Culshaw deftly moderated the session, keeping the debate both lively and gripping. Was the rectory a hotspot for spirits, or merely the stage for an eerie hoax? Verdict: inconclusive.

Case Note #3: Ask the Experts – A Spirited Discussion

Subjects: Evelyn Hollow, Chris French, Richard Freeman, Deborah Hyde, Ciaran O’Keeffe.

Highlights: This fiery panel saw believers and sceptics clash in a battle of logic and belief. From poltergeists to cryptids, no stone was left unturned. Folklorist Deborah Hyde’s sceptical takes clashed delightfully with cryptozoologist Richard Freeman’s zoological expertise and field knowledge of the Hairy Man. Chris French’s sharp insights added gravitas to the debate, particularly when UFOs entered the conversation. The crowd erupted when tensions boiled on the topic of Bigfoot—a rare moment when both believers and sceptics seemed to partially agree: something is out there.

Case Note #4: The Uncannyversity Challenge Quiz – A Battle of Wits

Teams: Team Believer (Captained by Evelyn Hollow) vs. Team Sceptic (Captained by Ciaran O’Keeffe).

Outcome: In this fiercely competitive showdown, paranormal prowess was tested as teams answered questions on the podcast’s most enigmatic cases. The questions were expertly written by a member of the Uncanny Community, and kept participates on their toes. Team Believer triumphed; their victory cemented by an unshakable knowledge of the paranormal. The atmosphere was electric, with cheers, groans, and a sense of camaraderie pervading the room. Evidence suggests this was one of the most enjoyable highlights of the weekend.

Case Note #5: The Return to Luibeilt

Subjects: Danny Robins, Phil (Don’t Sleep in This House, The Curse of Luibeilt).

Evidence Presented: A gripping video chronicled Danny and Phil’s perilous return to the desolate ruins of Luibeilt, site of The Curse of Luibeilt. The footage revealed chilling new discoveries at this forboding spot. Danny and Phil’s firsthand account of the expedition left the audience glued to their seats. Questions linger: has Luibeilt’s curse remained?

Case Note #6: Signing Sessions – Close Encounters

Observations: Fans flocked to meet their favourite witnesses and experts during signing sessions. Unexpected phenomena: numerous attendees reported unprompted chills and goosebumps when recounting their own paranormal experiences to the panel. Was this coincidence, or something more?

Case Note #7: The Christmas Special Live Recording

Subjects: Reece Shearsmith, Evelyn Hollow.

Notable Occurrence: Anticipation reached fever pitch during this live recording of the upcoming Uncanny Christmas Special. Attendees became part of the story as they witnessed eerie events unfold in real time. Notably, questions remain regarding an audience member’s experience of the mysterious activation of an Alexa by a terrifying voice. This sent shivers through the room. Coincidence? The audience left with more questions than answers.

Case Note #8: A Community United

Observation: Beyond the scheduled programming, the true phenomenon of UncannyCon 2024 was the palpable sense of connection among attendees. Enthusiasts swapped stories, debated theories, and forged new alliances in their shared pursuit of the unexplained. This collective energy resonated throughout the venue, creating a unique atmosphere that attendees described as both invigorating and enriching.

Special Eyewitness Report

Filed by: The Goblin.

Observations: The Uncanny phenomenon extends well beyond the day’s events and into the vibrant community that has coalesced around this core. This was an opportunity to form new friendships, and to cement existing ones. The carousing extends late into the night, after the events of the day are now mere memories, lubricated perhaps with a drop too much of potent gooseberry wine. Whilst we are all maybe a touch worse for wear in the morning, we wouldn’t swap a treasured moment of this time spent in excellent company for the world. *hic*

Conclusion: Why UncannyCon 2024 Will Haunt Us

UncannyCon 2024 wasn’t merely an event; it was an initiation into a deeper realm of curiosity and wonder. By blending chilling tales, rigorous debate, and communal spirit, it captured the essence of what makes the Uncanny phenomenon so captivating. For believers, sceptics, and the simply curious, this convention offered an experience that will linger in their minds like a half-remembered dream—or perhaps, a whisper from beyond.

Until we gather again: stay curious, stay sceptical, and, above all, stay Uncanny.

Oweynagat Cave and the Irish Origins of Samhain and Halloween

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(Neopagans in Ireland celebrating Samhain. Image Credit: Unknown author, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Tucked away in the beautiful scenic landscape of County Roscommon, Ireland, lies a mysterious and legendary cave known as “Oweynagat” (pronounced “Oen-na-gat”), also known as ‘Cave of the Cats’. This ancient cave is believed to be the mythical entrance to the Otherworld, Ireland’s Gate to Hell, a supernatural realm in Irish mythology. Oweynagat is one of the most important places linked to the ancient Celtic festival of “Samhain”, the forerunner to the modern Halloween. Steeped in lore and shrouded in mystery, Oweynagat is a powerful symbol of Ireland’s ancient spiritual heritage and the very origins of Halloween.

The Mythology of Oweynagat

Oweynagat is part of Rathcroghan, a major archaeological complex that served as a royal site for the ancient Irish kingdom of Connacht. This area comprises over 250 archaeological features; it is an area surrounded by many ancient sites, monuments, holy wells and standing stones. Rathcroghan is deeply linked to Queen Medb, a famous warrior queen in Irish mythology, and features heavily in stories of the “Ulster Cycle”, one of the four great story cycles of Irish mythology.

(An ogham stone which forms the lintel of Oweynagat Cave. Image Credit: Cathalpeelo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimed)

Oweynagat is often described in these tales as the “gateway to the Otherworld.” Irish mythology describes the cave as a place where powerful forces of the supernatural were said to reside. During Samhain, it was believed that the veil between the human world and the Otherworld was at its thinnest, allowing spirits, fairies, and other entities to pass through more easily. The cave itself was seen as a physical gateway through which supernatural beings could enter the mortal realm, making it a focal point for rituals and lore featuring Samhain.

One of the most famous legends associated with Oweynagat in relation to Samhain is known as ‘The Adventures of Nera”. One Samhain night, Ailill and Medb, ancient rulers of Rathcroghan, dared anyone to tie a rope around the foot of a captive hanging on a nearby gallows. They promised a reward to anyone who succeeded. Nera, a brave warrior, accepted this challenge. Decked out in his armour, he approached the captive and managed to tie the rope, only for the captive to come to life, asking Nera for a drink as a last request.

Nera agreed and carried the captive on his back to find water. As they passed three houses, each were marked by strange omens such as a lake of fire surrounding one, the captive finally drank from a slop bucket in one of the homes. In a final act of revenge, he spat his last sip on the faces of the house’s occupants, who died instantly. Returning the captive to his execution site, Nera then witnessed a horrifying vision of his home in flames and his people slain by an otherworldly army. When he followed this mysterious army into the underworld of Oweynagat, he found himself before a faery king.

(Underworld Army. Image Credit: Bing AI)

The faery king ordered Nera to bring wood daily to a house within the faery mound, where Nera met and married a faery woman. She shared many of the secrets of the faery world, warning him that his vision of his people’s demise could come true if he didn’t alert them. When Nera finally returned, only moments had passed in the human world despite his long stay in the faery mound.

Ailill and Medb, taking Nera’s warning seriously, prepared to attack the faery mound the next Samhain. Nera returned to his faery wife, who revealed she was pregnant with his child and encouraged him to escape with his family from the faery realm before the attack. He agreed and watched as the men of Connacht destroyed the faery mound, retrieving the powerful Crown of Briun, one of Ireland’s three great treasures.

Nera, however, remained forever tied to the faery world, never to be seen again in the mortal realm. The tale ends with his fate sealed, waiting in the faery mound until the end of time. The cave has since been claimed to be the birthplace of Halloween due to this story being set at Samhain.

(The Morrigan. Image Credit: Nabilsai, 2024)

Another legend relating to the cave at Oweynagat is that it is the home of the Morrígan, a Celtic war goddess who, according to tradition, emerges from the cave each Samhain to bring chaos to the land.  Ailill and Medb’s cats, who were supposed to roam out of Oweynagat on Samhain, are among the other mythological animals connected to the cave. They represent the chaos and the forces of nature that were thought to be let loose on this night.

Samhain: The Roots of Halloween

Samhain celebrations have a long history that predates written records. Samhain heralded the start of the dark of winter and the conclusion of the harvest season for the Celts. It was thought to be observed between October 31st and November 1st, sunset to sunset. Due to it being a transitional period, there was thought to be little separation between this world and the Otherworld. The veil thinned, enabling communication between living people and supernatural entities.

According to legend, Oweynagat cave is thought to become a portal to the otherworld at this time of year, where faeries and mortals may enter each other’s respective worlds. According to folklorist and professor, Dorothy Bray, “Samhain was a time charged with great supernatural energy and ordinary natural laws were suspended. The idea of the otherworld developed into the idea of the afterlife, so Samhain became a time when the worlds of life and death meet, when the souls of the dead return and can be seen.”  


(Offerings to the spirits of the ancestors. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan 2024)

According to local archaeologist and historian, Daniel
Curley, “Monsters and manifestations would emerge, led by the goddess Morríghan,
to create a world ready for winter, including birds with foul breath that would
strip leaves from trees. Locals would stay indoors in fear of being dragged
into the other world when the ghouls had finished ravaging the land. If you had
to go outside you wore a costume and mask to look hideous. That way you would
be left alone and not dragged into the otherworld.”

Feasting, bonfires, and rituals honouring the ancestors were all part of Samhain. People made food and drink offerings outside their homes to calm any wandering spirits who were thought to be free to roam on this night. People sometimes wore frightening masks or costumes to either ward off or blend in with any supernatural creatures that had passed over into our world, and bonfires were lit to guide the way to lost spirits.

From Samhain to Halloween

Many ancient traditions were adapted and reinterpreted to conform to Christianity as it expanded over Ireland. On November 1st, the Church created All Saints’ Day, which is a day to commemorate saints and martyrs. The night before was called All Hallows’ Eve, which later transformed to “Halloween.”

Samhain rituals gave rise to modern Halloween traditions including trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, and the wearing of spooky costumes. Wearing costumes to ward off any lost spirits gave rise to the Halloween custom of dressing up as monsters, ghosts, or other terrifying creatures. The modern custom of “trick-or-treating,” in which youngsters knock on doors looking for sweet treats, evolved from the habit of leaving out food offerings.

(Jack-O-Latern. Image Credit: Toby Ord, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons)

The jack-o’-lantern, another popular Halloween custom, has Irish origins too. In order to ward off evil spirits, people in Ireland used to carve swedes and place candles inside to make glowing lanterns. This custom was carried to America by Irish immigrants in the 19th century, and it eventually developed into the pumpkin lanterns we are accustomed to today

Oweynagat Cave Today

A trip to Oweynagat Cave provides a window into the past for those who are interested in learning more about the Irish origins of Halloween. Although the cave appears to be damp, murky and unassuming, it is simple to see why ancient humans sensed a power in its presence. Visitors may feel the weight of centuries’ worth of history, rituals and legend hanging in the air when they first enter Oweynagat cave.

Today, Halloween is mainly about entertaining costumes, sweets and light-hearted frights. However, Halloween’s origins lie much deeper; it has to do with ancestors, the cycles of nature, and myths surrounding the invisible realm. Oweynagat Cave is a mysterious reminder of the mythical beginnings of this well-known festival, as well as Ireland’s contributions to a festival now observed world over.

It is easy to imagine the ghosts of Rathcroghan’s ancient lands and possibly the cave’s mythical cats emerging from the depths of Oweynagat cave as Samhain draws near, serving as a powerful reminder that the real spirit of Halloween continues to reverberate throughout Ireland’s ancient landscapes.

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Step Into the Paranormal: Highlights from the Live Vlog on the GhostÉire Channel

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(GhostÉire interview with Ghost Catcher Isles. Image Credit: GhostÉire Channel)

If you’re someone who feels the tantalising pull toward the strange and supernatural, then this one’s for you. Picture this: a quiet Saturday night, lights dimmed, a flickering candle perhaps—and there I was, live on the GhostÉire Channel, diving headfirst into the world of the paranormal. Together with my incredible host Anthony Kerrigan, we opened the door to stories, historic sites, and legendary mysteries. Members of the “Uncanny Community” and paranormal enthusiasts tuned in, sharing in the experience as we wandered through tales of ancient landscapes and whispered legends. But if you missed it, don’t worry: the full recording is waiting for you, ready to be explored at your own pace.

A Bond Forged Through an Uncanny Curiosity

We kicked off the night by discussing my passion for the podcast Uncanny and the amazing ‘Uncanny Community’ it has fostered. There’s something powerful about this community: a place where like-minded individuals gather to share their strange encounters, eerie experiences, and shared fascination with the unknown. The support, curiosity, and friendship are inspiring, making it the perfect place for those drawn to the mysterious to connect.

Mysteries Carved into the Earth: The Uffington White Horse and Wayland’s Smithy

Our next stop on this haunted journey took us to one of Britain’s most iconic sites: the Uffington White Horse, a massive chalk figure etched into an Oxfordshire hillside that has withstood nearly 3,000 years of history. There’s a sacred stillness to it, a feeling that resonates with something far older than we’ll ever know. Is it a mark of ancient ritual, a tribute to old gods, or simply a beacon carved to guide travellers of the past? Each theory adds a layer of wonder to this timeless mystery.

(Wayland’s Smithy. Image Credit: E.Holohan)

And just a stone’s throw away lies Wayland’s Smithy, an ancient burial site nestled within this mysterious landscape. It’s a place that buzzes with mystery. Standing there, surrounded by earth that’s seen so much, you can’t help but wonder what these ancient builders believed and what secrets they took with them.

The Haunting Sounds of the Whispering Mummies

(The Crypt under St Michan’s. Image Credit: E.Holohan)

Our final topic was one that feels both spine-tingling and sombre: the Whispering Mummies of St. Michan’s Church in Dublin. Interred in crypts beneath this centuries-old church, the mummified remains have become legend, and some say that if you listen closely, the mummies themselves seem to whisper secrets of a bygone time. There’s a strange, haunting beauty here, where history and the supernatural meet in the stillness. The whispers, or maybe just the echoes of centuries, remind us that death is a mystery we all ponder, and yet, here we are, side-by-side with those who came long before us.

Join Us on a Journey Into the Unknown

If you have a passion for the paranormal or a love for history that holds shadows and secrets, this conversation is an invitation to journey with me and my host Anthony. Each story shared brought its own sense of wonder, its own question that lingered in the air. So, wrap up in a blanket, dim the lights, and join us in exploring these mysteries. Watch the full recording on the GhostÉire Channel and step with us into a world where every answer brings another question; and where the unknown is always just a little closer than we think.

Watch via links below:

GhostÉire Channel:  https://www.ghosteire.net/ghosteire-channel-seasoniv

On Youtube: https://youtu.be/73ksjMGSInc

(Interview poster. Image Credit: GhostÉire Channel)

Join Ghost Catcher Isles Live for a Paranormal Deep Dive on GhostÉire!

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(Live Vlog. Image Credit: GhostÉire)

Are you fascinated by the paranormal? Intrigued by folklore and eerie legends? Then you won’t want to miss my exclusive live vlog interview on the GhostÉire Channel, where we explore the unknown and the mysterious. It’s time to sit back, relax, and join me and my host Anthony Kerrigan as we delve into the world of the paranormal.

On this episode, Anthony will be speaking to me about my passion for all things paranormal. This includes ghostly tales, mystical sites, and everything in between. We’ll discuss my blog, Ghost Catcher Isles, where I explore strange and eerie stories from across the UK and also the Republic of Ireland.

Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll cover:

Uncanny Podcast and the ‘Uncanny’ Community

We’ll kick things off by talking about the hit paranormal podcast and documentary series, Uncanny. It first aired on BBC Radio 4 in 2021, it’s now a cult favourite. The podcast was created by Danny Robins and it dives deep into real-life supernatural encounters. It features key witness interviews and expert analysis from experts in the field such as Dr. Ciaran O’Keeffe, Professor Chris French, and Dr. Evelyn Hollow. Uncanny recently had a TV adaptation and also experienced a successful live tour across the UK and Ireland. Consequently, the Uncanny phenomenon continues to grow. But where do I stand—Team Believer or Team Sceptic? Or somewhere in between? Tune in to find out!

The Mystery of the Uffington White Horse

Next, we’ll journey to Oxfordshire, England, to explore the ancient chalk hill figure known as the Uffington White Horse. Dating back to the late Bronze Age, this enigmatic figure has sparked centuries of fascination. Is it a tribute to Epona, the Celtic goddess of horses, or linked to Rhiannon of Welsh myth? I’ll share my experience of visiting this iconic site and reveal whether the surrounding landscape holds any paranormal secrets.

The Whispering Mummies of St Michan’s

Our final topic takes us to the eerie vaults beneath St Michan’s Church in Dublin, home to mummified remains preserved for centuries. From the mysterious ‘nun’ to the six-foot-five ‘crusader,’ these mummies have their own strange stories to tell. We’ll dive into the chilling reports of ghostly whispers and invisible hands that haunt this crypt. And yes, we’ll also discuss the tragic fire of June 2024 that destroyed several of these ancient remains.

Want to ask a question? Feel free to send in your questions live about any of the topics we’ll cover—or anything related to the paranormal!

How to Watch Live: Catch the interview LIVE through the GhostÉire website at www.ghosteire.net—just press the RED button on the homepage. You can also watch via the GhostÉire Channel Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/503154179156001

The live interview will last approximately 90 mins. Feel free to join for the full interview. You can join and leave as you wish. You have the flexibility to dip in and out at any time during the live broadcast.

Don’t miss out on this spine-tingling discussion! This show is open to over 18’s only

Magic and Mystery at the Grand Opening of Bristol’s Haunted Bookshop

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(The Haunted Bookshop, Bristol. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

On a mild autumn afternoon, I found myself standing in front of a brand-new gem in Bristol’s literary scene: the Haunted Bookshop. From the moment I saw its name gleaming on the sign above the shop, I knew I was in for something special.

“Step into a world of spine-chilling tales, mystical splendours, and ancient folklore as you explore our carefully curated collection of horror, fantasy, and witchcraft books,” the shop website says; “Whether you’re seeking spine-tingling thrills, fantastical adventures, or a deeper understanding of the occult, our shelves are brimming with stories sure to enchant you.”

(The Haunted Bookshop, Bristol. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

As soon as I stepped inside, it was as if I’d been transported to another realm. Dim lighting and wooden bookshelves lined with volumes of witchcraft, folklore, fantasy, and horror greeted me warmly.

I started with the books, of course. Being an unashamed lover of the weird and the wonderful, I couldn’t resist diving into their collection of witchcraft tomes, folklore books, and horror novels. Each shelf seemed to whisper promises of untold stories and ancient wisdom. After some delightful browsing, I settled on two books: one on folklore and another on modern witchcraft. Both felt like treasures in my hands, and I couldn’t wait to dig in and lose myself in their pages.

(Inside the bookshop. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

But the Haunted Bookshop wasn’t just about books. It was a haven for all things witchy and mystical. Scattered throughout the shop were displays of witchcraft supplies: delicate candles in deep purples and blacks, bundles of sage tied with twine, and shelves gleaming with crystals of every color. I was immediately drawn to a striking crow-shaped crystal, charcoal grey and glossy, which seemed to call out to me from across the room. It felt right in my hand, and before I knew it, it was mine. Along with a tote bag (because who can resist a good bookish tote?), and some adorable ghost-themed metal pin badges—perfect little nods to the spooky vibes.

One of the highlights of the visit was chatting with the shop’s owner. Monika had a warm, earthy energy, the kind you’d expect from someone who truly believes in the magic of what they’re doing. We talked about the inspiration behind the shop, her love for esoteric books, and how important it is to create a space where people can explore these topics freely.

In her recent interview with Bristol24/7 Monika said: “I’ve always read horror and fantasy books and liked spooky things, Halloween is my favourite time of the year, so I just wanted to stand out.”

Monika credits her grandmother as being the one to have instilled a passion for books in her, having grown up spending a lot of time in her grandmother’s bookshop. Downstairs, Monika said she plans on opening a comfy seating area ready to start hosting events such as horror book clubs, tarot card readings and more.

(Drinks and mushroom shaped biscuits. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

As we chatted, she handed me a glass of prosecco to toast the opening. I sipped and soaked it all in; this cozy, mystical bookshop, where like-minded souls could gather and find a little magic of their own.

And just when I thought the experience couldn’t get any better, I was towards a plate of mushroom-shaped biscuits, which felt like a whimsical finishing touch to the whole evening. Slightly sweet, slightly earthy, and deliciously unique; just like the shop itself.

Leaving the Haunted Bookshop felt like stepping back into the real world after a brief, enchanted escape. But as I walked out into the bustle of Stokes Croft, my bag filled with books, a crow crystal, and other witchy goodies, I couldn’t help but feel that I had taken a piece of that magic with me. There’s something comforting about knowing that spaces like this exist, where the curious and the mystical meet in such a beautiful, welcoming way.

(My haul of goodies. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

The Haunted Bookshop is sure to become one of my favorite haunts (pun intended), and I can’t wait to go back, especially as the colder months draw in. There’s just something about autumn, witchcraft, and folklore that feels so perfectly intertwined. If you’re ever in Bristol and want to indulge in a little magic, mystery, and literary wonder, this is the place to be. And who knows—maybe you’ll even leave with your own bit of enchanted treasure.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, from 12-6pm, you’ll find The Haunted Bookshop at 43 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3PY.

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