The Ghosts of Anne of Cleves House

Anne of Cleves House in Lewes, despite its name, was never occupied by Henry VIII’s fourth wife. She received it as part of her divorce settlement but never visited. The Tudor building, now a museum, is haunted by figures unconnected to its famous name.

The House

The timber-framed house dates from around 1500. Anne of Cleves received it in 1541 but never visited Sussex. The building served as a private residence until becoming a museum in 1923.

The Tudor Woman

A woman in Tudor dress has been seen in the house, though she is not believed to be Anne of Cleves. Her identity is unknown, but she may be a previous resident who lived there when it was a working home.

The Child Ghost

A small figure, apparently a child, has been seen in the upper rooms. Children’s laughter has been heard when the museum is empty. The child seems playful rather than distressed.

The Kitchen Ghost

The historic kitchen, restored to show Tudor cooking methods, has a presence that staff and visitors have noticed. Some feel they are being watched while viewing the displays.

The Collection

The museum’s collection of local historical objects may contribute to the supernatural atmosphere. Items connected to the dead can sometimes retain spiritual energy.

Assessment

Anne of Cleves House demonstrates that a building’s ghosts may be entirely unconnected to its famous associations. The spirits here predate and outlast the queen whose name the house bears.