Oxfordshire haunted locations draw Halloween thrill-seekers

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 06:22 · Archive

Oxfordshire's haunted sites, including Oxford Castle and university colleges, attract visitors seeking paranormal experiences this Halloween.

Oxfordshire is filled with ghost stories centred on historic sites including Oxford Castle & Prison, university colleges and ruined manor houses. Reports from these locations include odd noises, sudden cold spots and sightings of former prisoners.

One of the most well-known spirits is Mary Blandy, executed in 1752 for poisoning her father with arsenic. Her ghost is said to be seen around Oxford Castle. At St John's College, the ghost of Archbishop William Laud, executed in 1645 during the English Civil War and a former president of the college, is said to wander the grounds. Stories claim his ghost can be seen carrying, or even rolling, his severed head through the college.

Another enduring ghost story involves Amy Robsart, wife of Robert Dudley, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I. Robsart died from a fall down a staircase at Cumnor Place in 1560. Rumours that her death was not accidental have persisted for more than 450 years, and sightings of her ghost have become part of local legend.

These paranormal tales and haunted locations are set to draw thrill-seekers to Oxfordshire this Halloween.

How it is being reported

• Oxfordshire's haunted tales from severed head to unexplained screamsFrom ghosts carrying a severed head to unexplained screams, Oxfordshire' paranormal activity and haunted locations are set to draw thrill-seekers this Halloween.Oxfordshire Guardian · 31 Oct, 05:00
• Oxfordshire's haunted tales from severed head to unexplained screamsFrom ghosts carrying a severed head to unexplained screams, Oxfordshire' paranormal activity and haunted locations are set to draw thrill-seekers this Halloween.Oxford Mail · 31 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Oxfordshire · Oxford Castle & Prison · Mary Blandy · St John's College · William Laud · Amy Robsart · Cumnor Place · Minster Lovell Hall

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