The Ghosts of Petworth House

Petworth House in West Sussex is one of England’s finest aristocratic houses, home to an extraordinary art collection and centuries of family history. The National Trust property is also reputed to be haunted by several spirits from its long past.

The House

The Percy family acquired Petworth in the 12th century. The current house dates largely from the 1680s and 1690s. The Earls of Egremont made it a center of artistic patronage. J.M.W. Turner painted many of his finest works here.

The Proud Duke

Charles Seymour, the 6th Duke of Somerset, rebuilt Petworth in the late 17th century. Known as the Proud Duke for his arrogance, his ghost has been reported in the state rooms. A tall figure in period dress, he seems to inspect his creation with satisfaction.

The Grey Lady

A female apparition in grey appears in the corridors and bedrooms. She is most often seen near the room where she is believed to have died. Her identity is uncertain, though she may be connected to the Percy family.

The Kitchen Ghost

Staff have reported a presence in the kitchen areas, attributed to a servant who died in the house. Objects move on their own, and the sound of footsteps is heard when no one is present. The spirit seems benevolent, merely continuing the work of a lifetime.

The Turner Connection

Some have speculated that Turner himself haunts the house where he spent so much time and did such important work. Unusual lights have been observed in the rooms where he painted, though no clear apparition has been reported.

Assessment

Petworth House’s combination of artistic importance and aristocratic history creates a rich context for its reported hauntings. The spirits seem to be former residents who refuse to leave the house they loved.