Arundel Castle: The Duke’s Haunted Stronghold

Arundel Castle has dominated the skyline of West Sussex for nearly a millennium. Built at the end of the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Arundel, it has been the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Norfolk—the premier dukes of England—for over 850 years. Such a long and dramatic history has left its mark in more ways than one.

The History

A Castle of Conflicts

The castle has been besieged twice:

• During the English Civil War (1643-1644), Parliamentary forces captured it from Royalist defenders
• The Empress Matilda held the castle during the Anarchy (12th century)

Much of what visitors see today dates from the Victorian era, when the 15th Duke undertook massive restoration and rebuilding. However, the ancient motte and parts of the medieval structure remain.

The Hauntings

The Blue Man

The most famous ghost of Arundel Castle is the Blue Man, who haunts the library. He has been seen browsing the bookshelves as if searching for a particular volume. He is described as:

• A man of slight build
• Dressed in blue clothing from the Cavalier era
• Having a scholarly, preoccupied demeanor
• Vanishing when spoken to

Some believe he was a scholar or priest who died in the castle, forever seeking knowledge even in death.

The Kitchen Boy

A young servant boy has been reported in the kitchen areas, dressed in clothing from the 17th or 18th century. He appears to be going about his duties:

• Carrying invisible loads
• Stoking fires that aren’t there
• Responding to commands only he can hear

Staff report feeling his presence most strongly in the early morning hours.

The White Lady

A woman in white has been seen in the castle grounds and near the Fitzalan Chapel. She is believed to be connected to the Howard family:

• Some identify her as a young woman who died before her wedding
• Others suggest she was a nun from the castle’s religious community
• Her appearances are often preceded by the scent of flowers

The First Earl

The ghost of Roger de Montgomery himself is said to appear on moonlit nights, walking the ancient motte where the original castle stood. He appears as a Norman lord in chainmail, surveying the domain he conquered nearly a thousand years ago.

The Phantom Owl

An unusual haunting involves a spectral white owl that has been seen flying through the castle:

• It passes through solid walls
• Makes no sound
• Portends important events in the family

Modern Activity

Contemporary witnesses report:

• Books moving on their own in the library
• Footsteps in empty corridors
• Cold drafts in sealed rooms
• The sound of medieval music late at night

Visiting

Arundel Castle is open to visitors during spring and summer. The castle remains the residence of the Duke of Norfolk, so not all areas are accessible. Ghost tours are occasionally offered.

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For nearly a thousand years, Arundel Castle has watched over the Sussex Downs. Its ghosts—Norman lords, Cavalier scholars, and tragic maidens—continue their eternal vigil within its walls.