Haunted England: The Ghosts of Sandford Orcas Manor

(Image courtesy of friend Alfred Cooper)

Upon looking at this lovely, seemingly peaceful manor, one can’t help but take in the tranquility. Of course, looks can be deceiving. Built in the 1600’s, this quaint abode houses spirits that are not only unruly, but downright frightening. Surprisingly dubbed one of the most haunted places in England, fourteen ghosts call this place home.

One ghost is of a farmer. Legend has it that the farmer hung himself within one of the rooms from a trap door. Though the trapdoor no longer exists, the forlorn farmer is seen walking about the grounds. Sometimes he is wearing a white cloak, or floating about the grass.

A sinister ghost of a footman preys on unsuspecting female occupants of the manor. When he manifests, he appears to be seven feet tall, and is menacing. When alive, he used to play sport with the maids of the house and have his way with them. This is one of the more malevolent spirits of the manor.

Another spirit is of a priest, who killed his master.  He seems to enjoy harming his victims. As they lay asleep, people startle awake while feeling as if they are being smothered by some unseen object. Some have seen a man hovering about them while taking his cape and pressing it upon their face.

Ghosts of women and of a little girl have also been spotted. The most famous ghost is of a crazed young man. He killed a fellow cadet, and was returned home to the manor. He was imprisoned, and when he passed, his body was buried within the walls of his room. Many have reported hearing him banging and screaming to be let out. His howls are worse on a full moon.

Loud banging noises and voices can be heard. Sometimes hands can be felt upon you, or music can be heard lingering through the manor. The gargoyles who are meant to guard the tops of the manor, carry a most disturbing look upon their faces at first glance. A gypsy woman is often said to be seen wearing a cloak. When you follow her, she mysteriously vanishes, but her cloak can be found hanging in the garden shed.

Another spirit committed murder within the house, but only haunts during a certain time of the year. The spirit of a lady dressed in red has also been seen. She is described as being one of the lady’s in a portrait seen in the manor. One room associated with this lady is always locked, for if it is opened, items are strewn about in disarray as if the lady is upset with the intrusion. Voices of children and a spinning wheel have often been heard in this room.

Many spirits reside here, behaving as though they are upset with all the hustle and bustle of today’s era. But if you are strong of heart, then the beautiful manor offers tours as well as lodgings.

Other articles of interest by author:

http://www.socyberty.com/Paranormal/Haunting-of-the-Damned.568727

http://www.purpleslinky.com/Trivia/Random/Scariest-Places-on-Earth.302975