The Ghosts of Basing House

Basing House in Hampshire was once the largest private house in England. Its destruction during the English Civil War, after a siege lasting over two years, left ruins that are said to be haunted by those who died defending it.

The House

The Marquess of Winchester built Basing House between 1531 and 1535. It covered eight acres and was said to be the grandest private residence in the realm. Queen Elizabeth I visited, and the house was renowned for its magnificence.

The Siege

During the Civil War, the Catholic Marquess held Basing House for the King. Parliament besieged it from 1643 to 1645. On October 14, 1645, Oliver Cromwell’s forces stormed the house. Hundreds were killed, including civilians and Catholic priests. The house was then demolished.

The Massacred Defenders

Visitors to the ruins have reported seeing figures in Civil War dress among the broken walls. Some appear wounded or distressed, reliving their final moments. The sounds of fighting and screaming have been heard when no one else is present.

The Catholic Priests

Several Catholic priests were killed in the sack of Basing House. Figures in clerical dress have been seen in the tunnel system beneath the ruins, where priests reportedly hid before being discovered and killed.

The Lady in White

A woman in white has been seen walking the ruins, apparently searching for someone. She may be the wife or daughter of a defender, still seeking her lost family member centuries after his death.

Assessment

Basing House represents concentrated violence and death. The massacre that ended the siege created spiritual trauma that has apparently persisted for nearly four centuries among the atmospheric ruins.