10 Royal Residences And Estates That Have Reported Supernatural Activity

The Tongueless Woman; Catherine Howard, beheaded by her husband Henry VIII; Lord Darnley, Mary Queen of Scots' spouse, murdered by her future husband. How would you like to share your home with any of those ghostly characters? Not much, we’d warrant. But Britain’s royal family has no choice. For these figures — and many more — apparently roam the castles and mansions they own. So, read on to meet some of the troubled characters who haunt these properties!

Windsor Castle

Claimed to be the oldest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle’s history stretches back 1,000 years. It’s set on 13 acres of rolling gardens and parkland just by the town of Windsor, about 20 miles west of London. And with that much history, it comes as no surprise to learn that the castle allegedly has more than 25 ghosts and apparitions wandering its bounds. 

William the Conqueror 

This magnificent building has been a home away from home for English and then British royalty throughout its existence, right back to the time of William the Conqueror. This is actually where the late Queen spent her weekends when she wasn't on official duties. Though how often Elizabeth bumped into the resident ghost population is not something she ever divulged. 

Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn

Perhaps the most notable of the troubled souls who haunt the castle’s grand halls and towers is Henry VIII. Since the royal went through six wives — two of whom he had beheaded — it’s little wonder his troubled spirit wanders Windsor. And the king has not entirely escaped his wives. Anne Boleyn is another said to haunt the castle. Unfortunately, that’s one of the exes whose execution Henry ordered. 

Elizabeth I, Charles I and George III

In fact, Windsor boasts a thoroughly impressive royal ghost guest list. Henry and Anne Boleyn’s daughter Elizabeth I is one. Charles I — undoubtedly peeved by his public beheading in 1649 — also roams the castle and is reunited with his head. George III — who was locked up in Windsor when his madness was at its most florid — also occasionally appears. And even Queen Victoria is said to have made a ghostly appearance!