Ham House
The formidable Duchess of Lauderdale haunts the grand rooms and corridors of this Stuart mansion, where her presence is felt through cold spots and mysterious footsteps.
Ham House
This magnificent Stuart mansion on the banks of the Thames is haunted by one of its most powerful former residents - Elizabeth Murray, Duchess of Lauderdale, who lived here in the 17th century.
The Duchess of Lauderdale
Elizabeth Murray was a formidable figure at Ham House during the reign of Charles II. Known for her political cunning, lavish lifestyle, and ruthless ambition, she transformed Ham House into one of the grandest homes in England. Her presence still permeates the building.
Reported Manifestations:
- Footsteps echoing through empty corridors
- The rustle of silk gowns on staircases
- A regal female figure in 17th-century dress
- Cold spots in the Long Gallery
- Doors opening and closing by themselves
- A sense of being watched in the Duchess’s former apartments
The Haunted Long Gallery
The Long Gallery is considered the most active area of the house. Staff and visitors report:
- Sudden temperature drops
- An oppressive atmosphere
- Glimpses of a woman in period costume
- The scent of old perfume
- Objects moving slightly on their own
Additional Phenomena
Beyond the Duchess, Ham House is known for other unexplained occurrences:
- A phantom dog seen in the gardens
- Children’s laughter with no source
- Mysterious knocking sounds in the Chapel
- Apparitions of servants in period dress
The National Trust, which now manages the property, has documented numerous visitor reports of paranormal experiences throughout the house’s opulent rooms.