When you think of the sleepy town of Congleton, ghosts, ghouls and things that go bump in the night are not the first attractions which spring to mind. However, following a visit to The Lion & Swan Inn, visitors may leave the Cheshire town with a whole new perspective on the paranormal.
First built in the 16th century, The Lion & Swan has seen thousands of visitors pass through its doors in its role as a coaching inn. Although the vast majority of visitors have been of the living and breathing variety, some enjoyed the convivial atmosphere so much that even their own deaths could not persuade them to leave.
The Lion & Swan has earned its reputation as one of Cheshire’s most haunted properties thanks to the presence of several ghosts, one of which chooses to welcome guests by the roaring fireplace. This feature in itself is a little scary, with carved erotic and demonic symbols, but the ghost of a naked young woman tending the fire is undoubtedly the paranormal pinnacle of the scene.
Yet, The Lion & Swan’s horrifying legacy does not end with a demonic fireplace, as during the 1970s a brutal murder took place in the large downstairs cellar which functioned as a nightclub at the time. The club’s manager died at the hands of robbers during a break-in, and since then staff have feared to venture downstairs as they are greeted with slamming doors, flickering lights and the sound of a child crying when they do.
All in all, The Lion & Swan is the ideal place for lovers of all things haunted, but perhaps not for those who are particularly fond of dancing the night away.
Often called “the UK’s most haunted pub in the UK’s most haunted city”, Ye Olde Kings Head in Chester is truly an experience not to be missed by the avid paranormal fan. By day, visitors are encouraged to relax and enjoy a drink or homemade meal – but by night the atmosphere of the friendly family pub changes entirely.
Ye Olde Kings Head has been one of Chester’s most popular watering holes since 1622, although the foundations indicate that a public house has been present on the site since the early 1200s. Although stories of hauntings were enjoyed by locals for many years, it was not until the 1930s that things took a truly spooky turn.
During a refurbishment at this time, a sword was discovered underneath the floorboards of bedroom number 4, which today hangs on the wall of the bar. Unfortunately, though, uncovering the sword appears to have enraged a number of spirits, with a phantom child often seen wandering the room and a poltergeist frequently leaving messages on the mirror for guests.
Yet do not think that avoiding Room 4 is a sure fire way to get a decent night’s sleep, as in Room 6 items tend to disappear at will. Not to worry, though – a “shadowy watcher” is on hand to ensure guests asleep in the bed do not meet a similar fate!
With 13 resident ghosts and 6 out of its 8 hotel rooms boasting their very own spirits, it may be safer for guests to take their chances napping in the bar during the day.
