The Crown At Wells, a historic inn in Somerset, offers a haunting experience for the paranormal curious, writes DAVID SAUNDERSON
The Crown at Wells stands at the centre of Somerset as a charming inn where the past never quite leaves.
For those with a penchant for the paranormal, The Crown at Wells offers more than just a cosy bed and a warm meal; it offers the chance to encounter the unexplained. If you’re intrigued by ghostly tales and have a curiosity for haunted locations, The Crown at Wells might just be your next must-visit destination.
History of The Crown at Wells
The Crown at Wells has its roots tracing back to around 1450. Originally commissioned by Bishop Beckynton, the building began as a set of houses before becoming a coaching inn known for welcoming weary travellers.
Over the centuries, it has been a witness to countless historical events, including the preaching of William Penn in 1695, from one of its upper windows. Penn, a Quaker and the man who would later give his name to Pennsylvania, spoke to a crowd of thousands gathered in the Market Place below – a moment immortalized in both the inn’s and the town’s history.
Directly across from The Crown at Wells pub in the Market Square, a sign now marks the site where the Bloody Assizes took place in 1685.
This location was where Judge George Jeffreys presided over the brutal trials of those accused of supporting the Monmouth Rebellion, a failed attempt to overthrow King James II. The trials, infamous for their severity, resulted in numerous executions and harsh sentences, leaving a lasting historical legacy in the heart of Wells.
Through the years, The Crown has been a hub of activity. During the First World War, it served as a billet for troops, and it again welcomed soldiers during the Second World War, offering them a brief respite from the horrors of conflict. The building’s long and varied past seems to have left an indelible mark, with numerous spirits said to still wander its ancient halls.
And film fans would be interested to know the pub was one of the filming locations of Hot Fuzz, the 2007 Edgar Wright-directed action comedy starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, of Shaun of the Dead fame.
Hauntings at The Crown at Wells
The Crown at Wells has earned a reputation as one of the most haunted locations in Somerset, a claim supported by both local folklore and numerous eyewitness accounts. The paranormal activity here caught the attention of ITV television series, The Paranormal 5, which investigated the strange occurrences reported by both staff and guests.
One of the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a tall Victorian man. This spectral figure is often seen standing near the fireplace, gazing intently at whoever happens to be in the room – a presence that has left more than one staff member terrified. Another common sighting is a woman with a suitcase, believed to be from a bygone era, who appears to be climbing the stairs only to vanish when approached.
Guests have also reported more subtle but equally unsettling experiences, such as finding black barley seeds arranged in peculiar cone shapes on their pillows and duvet covers being inexplicably thrown from beds. Faces have been seen peering out from the ground floor windows, and the ghost of a soldier from the English Civil War is said to roam the building.
The Crown At Wells Today
Despite – or perhaps because of – its haunted reputation, The Crown at Wells remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors. This 15th-century coaching inn offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort. Each of its nine bedrooms exudes character, with features like four-poster beds and creaky timber floors that remind you of the building’s long history. It’s the kind of place where no floor is quite level, and every corner whispers of the past.
The Crown also boasts a warm and welcoming bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty meals made with local ingredients.
The Crown at Wells is much more than just a place to stay – it’s a living piece of history, with ghostly residents that ensure its past is never forgotten. For those interested in the paranormal, it offers the chance to experience first hand the eerie presence of those who once lived and died within its walls. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or simply someone looking for a unique and atmospheric place to stay, The Crown at Wells is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, if you’re planning a visit to Wells, why not book a night or two at The Crown? Who knows – you might just have an encounter with one of its many spirits.
Have you experienced the paranormal at The Crown At Wells? Tell us about it in the comments section below!
