Packhorse Pub

Christchurch Street West
Frome
Somerset BA11 1EQ

History

The town of Frome was once larger than Bath and originally grew due to the wool and cloth industry. It later diversified into metal working and printing although these have now declined. Frome is home to many listed buildings and is reputed to have one or more systems of underground tunnels beneath its streets of the older parts of the town with some entrances still visible above ground.

Paranormal Activity

It is believed that this pub is haunted by at least three or four spirits. Dave Mills, who took over the pub in 1981 but is now semi-retired had this to say about the hauntings: “I have witnessed an old lady walk through a wall in the room above the kitchen while with my daughter and a member of staff. My neighbour, who has since passed away, told me he had got in an exorcist because there were so many strange things going on in his house. I’m not saying I believe or disbelieve but whatever was happening the ‘spirits’ were always friendly and never caused us any bother.”

Mr Mills went on to say: “I’ve seen a dog, and a member of staff was talking to what she thought was me even though I was in the cellar at the time. When I asked her who she was talking to she said she thought it was me. The pub was closed at the time and there were no customers on the premises. I thought I had accidentally locked someone in – it was all very weird.”

Other things Mr Mills has heard and seen include a hunting horn being blown downstairs in the bar and when he went down to have a look it was lying on a pile of rubble during a refurbishment, despite it sitting on the wall of the bar for years. He has also witnessed a black dog: “All I know is that there is something not quite right in the pub but I couldn’t give an explanation as to why it all happened.”

Mr Mills owned the Pack Horse for 29 years before giving it up 15 months ago.

Sandhill Park

Bishops Lydeard
Somerset

History

Built in 1720 this country house used to be a prisoner of war camp but went on to be used as a home for handicapped children and later as a military and civilian hospital. It remained in military use until 1944 and in 1948 reopened as a psychiatric hospital. The building was eventually sold in 1991 and plans have been made for its demolition to make way for new housing.

Paranormal Activity

This old psychiatric hospital is famous with locals for having an eery feeling about it. Doors have been known to slam by themselves and strange whispers and noises can be heard in various areas of the building. Switches have been known to come on by themselves and cold spots appear in various locations for no reason.

Polar Bear Fish Bar

St John Street
Bridgwater
Somerset

History

Once owned by a Greek who died above the shop.

Paranormal Activity

A small round badge of a Greek eye is said to move off the wall and fall to the floor by itself. Moaning noises, drops in temperature and footsteps have all been recorded at the chippy. An eerie white shape has also been caught on film standing by the back door, some say he looks like a monk. View the picture here >>