In the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District, Buxton’s scenic beauty hides a haunting history of ghostly encounters and mysterious happenings. Here are five haunted places in Buxton…
Buxton, a charming town in the Peak District, is not only known for its beautiful scenery and historical architecture but also for its haunted locations. If you’re interested in the paranormal, here are five haunted places in Buxton that you can visit.
The Old Hall Hotel
The Square, Buxton SK17 6BD
Built in 1573, The Old Hall Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in England. It stands on the site of the New Hall, where Mary, Queen of Scots, stayed during her imprisonment in the 16th century. The hotel has hosted many notable guests over the centuries, including Daniel Defoe and Charles Darwin.
The ghost of Mary, Queen of Scots, is said to haunt the hotel. Guests have reported seeing her apparition in Tudor-style clothing. Other paranormal activities include cold spots, unexplained noises, and a general feeling of unease in certain rooms, especially those that were part of the original building.
Poole’s Cavern
Green Lane, Buxton SK17 9DH
Poole’s Cavern, also known as Poole’s Hole, is a natural limestone cave on the outskirts of Buxton. The cavern has been used by humans for thousands of years and is named after a notorious medieval robber, Poole, who allegedly used the cave as a hideout. Visitors often report feelings of unease while exploring the cavern. Accounts of strange lights, shadowy figures, and sudden drops in temperature are common. Some believe these phenomena are linked to the spirits of ancient inhabitants or Poole himself.
The Crescent
The Crescent, Buxton SK17 6BH
Constructed between 1780 and 1789 by the Fifth Duke of Devonshire, The Crescent was designed as a grand hotel and spa. The building fell into disrepair in the 20th century but has recently been restored. During renovation, contractors reported ghostly footsteps, voices, and tools moving on their own.
The ghostly activities are believed to be the spirits of past guests or workers. Apparitions of elegantly dressed individuals from the Georgian era have also been reported.
The Devonshire Dome
Devonshire Road, Buxton SK17 6RY
Originally built in 1779 as a stable for the Duke of Devonshire’s horses, the Devonshire Dome was later converted into a hospital. It is now part of the University of Derby’s Buxton campus. The Devonshire Dome is said to be haunted by the spirit of a young nurse who died there. Reports include hearing footsteps, seeing figures in old-fashioned nurse’s attire, unexplained noises, and feelings of being watched.
Buxton Opera House
Water Street, Buxton SK17 6XN
Buxton Opera House, designed by Frank Matcham, opened in 1903. The Edwardian theatre hosts various performances and is renowned for its beautiful interior and excellent acoustics.
The ghost of a Victorian-era stagehand is said to haunt Buxton Opera House. Performers and staff have experienced cold drafts, moving shadows, and objects being tampered with. Some have seen a shadowy figure moving in the wings during rehearsals and performances.
These locations provide a fascinating glimpse into Buxton’s eerie past and are perfect for those intrigued by the paranormal. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories and histories behind these sites are sure to captivate your imagination.
Have you seen a ghost in Buxton? Tell us about it in the comments section below!
