Cheltenham Tourist Board is this week paying homage to Prestbury’s reputation as one of the most haunted towns in Britain with a guided ghost walk.
Many residents of the town remain uncertain about the presence of the spooky spirits, whereas others are totally convinced that they roam all corners of the village.
The guided tour starts at Prestbury House, allegedly one of the most haunted places in Britain. Some of the stops along the way include the nearby Burgage, which was originally a 13th century market place, and apparently home to the ghost of the charging horseman.
Also on the tour is St Mary’s churchyard. Many believe the hooded figure of the Black Abbot can be seen strolling the grounds surrounding the church during Halloween, Christmas and All Saints Day.
Another stop on the walk will be the Kings Arms. It is meant to be home to the ghost of record-breaking jockey Fred Archer. Even though it is documented Archer shot himself in Suffolk, his legend lives on in Prestbury.
Kings Arms employee, Sue Scourfield said: “I hear the staffroom door slamming and knocking about, it could be the wind but I don’t think it is.”
A Plough Inn worker said: “I’ve worked here for a year and stayed in the pub a few times and I’ve never seen or heard anything, it’s complete rubbish.”
Adam, another Kings Arms employee said: “I’m highly sceptical, but I’ve seen and heard a few things that have made me think twice.” He claimed that glasses from the dishwasher smashed all over the floor: “It was like they were pushed and not just fell.”
The ghoulish guides take place on Thursday 29 and Saturday 31 October; one will also take place on 1 November 2009. All walks start at 7:30pm, tickets cost £4.50 and are available from Cheltenham Tourist Information office.
