As old and classic of a city as Manchester there are bound to be some haunted areas and houses to explore—each with their own risk, of course. It’s certainly a more unique way of appreciating the city by marvelling at the horrors of past relics and mansions. 

If you have a heart of stone and wish to traverse through these amazingly haunted houses, then here are some of the most ghostly places in Manchester that you can explore! 

The Greengate House

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This 19th-century mansion continues to captivate the imagination of locals and ghost hunters alike with its haunting tales. While the history of the house may appear normal at first glance, a closer look reveals a litany of tragedies and mishaps. 

Anecdotes from various guests over the years often allude to the spectral lady often seen in the upper chambers. 

Moreover, visitors speak of an eerie sensation of being watched, inexplicable cold spots, and strange noises, especially during the night. Overall, a visit to the Greengate House takes one on a chilling journey into Manchester’s haunted past.

The Victoria Warehouse

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Ghostly tales of the paranormal often populate the history of old, large structures, and the Victoria Warehouse is no exception. Despite being repurposed into a contemporary space, this historic building’s former life as an early 20th-century warehouse continues to haunt it. 

Workers often recount tales of strange occurrences during the quiet, late hours. Flickering lights, abrupt drops in temperature, and a sense of being closely watched are all reported. 

Most unsettling are the accounts of the ‘Warehouse Wraith’, a spectral figure known for his ominous and silent presence.

The Old Granada Studios

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The old Granada Studios carry a rich history of British television. However, many who have worked late in the night have reported encounters that have nothing to do with the living. 

Whispers of a woman’s laughter, apparitions in the mirror, and the feeling of being touched when alone are common reports. The woman, dressed in a period outfit, is said to be harmless and exudes a sense of longing. 

Equally enigmatic is the man in the vintage tuxedo who’s often seen in the late hours of the night before disappearing into thin air.

Blackley Forest

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The mystical Blackley Forest is a place of stunning natural beauty, but it also holds a reputation as a hotspot for paranormal activities. 

From ghostly apparitions to sudden, eerie mists, the forest exudes a sense of the uncanny. A frequently reported figure is a Roman soldier, seen patrolling as though still bound to an ancient duty. 

There are also frequent mentions of sudden, unexpected temperature drops and an inexplicable sense of dread that overwhelms visitors. Some report the feeling of being watched from the thick undergrowth or hearing whispers that cannot be traced back to a source.

Strangeways Prison

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A grim reminder of Manchester’s past, Strangeways Prison, still looms over the city. Reports of paranormal occurrences are common, with many saying they’ve encountered the ghost of Harold, an executed inmate, and George, a former prison guard. 

People often report feeling a heavy sadness and hopelessness that is hard to shake off even after leaving. Some visitors have even reported inexplicable physical scratches or felt icy cold fingers touch them, reinforcing the prison’s haunted reputation.

Moreover, eerie cries echoing through the corridors in the dead of night, disembodied voices whispering names, and distant sounds of rattling chains have all been noted by visitors and employees.

The prison cells, especially the solitary confinement area, have been hotspots for ghostly activity. Aside from the oppressive, chilling air that seems to prevail, there are reports of spectral inmates who seem eternally locked in their solitary suffering. 

Visitors recount feeling sudden chills, invisible fingers brushing their skin, and a heavy, inexplicable dread that creeps in as they venture deeper into the cell blocks.

The Ancient Ram Inn

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The Ancient Ram Inn’s history is steeped in tales of hauntings and spiritual encounters. Visitors frequently report chilling encounters with child ghosts and spectral monks. 

The inn’s most feared entity is the ‘Dark Entity’, whose ominous presence has been known to fill even the most hardened of ghost hunters with dread. The sounds of crying children and ghostly singing often fill the silent nights here, creating an eerie atmosphere that’s impossible to forget.

In addition to these widely reported encounters, some guests at the Ancient Ram Inn have reported witnessing apparitions of former inhabitants. 

These spectral figures are often seen wandering the corridors or peering out from the shadows, seemingly stuck in their own timelines. The most frequently sighted apparition is said to be that of a witch who was reportedly burned at the stake in the 1500s.

The Bishop’s Room, already infamous for its hauntings, has also been the site of numerous accounts of poltergeist activity. 

Objects are said to move inexplicably, and cold spots are felt even in the warmth of summer. Some guests have reported feeling an unseen presence sharing the room with them, adding to the chilling atmosphere that permeates this historic inn.

Chetham’s Library

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As one of the oldest libraries in the UK, Chetham’s Library houses not only ancient books but also some spectral residents. 

Sightings of a wandering monk in the corridors, sudden gusts of cold air, and the ghostly sound of turning pages and whispering voices contribute to its haunted reputation. 

The most peculiar reports involve a spectral figure who appears to be reading ancient books before suddenly disappearing when approached.

Ordsall Hall 

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Over eight centuries old, Ordsall Hall is renowned for its many ghost sightings. The White Lady, thought to be the ghost of a broken-hearted Lady Margaret Radclyffe, is often seen wandering aimlessly in the grand hallways. 

Sightings of the ghost of Sir John Radclyffe, who once owned the manor, are also frequent. Witnesses have reported chilling sounds of children’s laughter and eerie ball games echoing through the vast hall at night.

Alongside the haunting figures of Lady Margaret Radclyffe and Sir John Radclyffe, the Great Hall of Ordsall Hall is known to reverberate with spectral sounds, which contribute to its eerie atmosphere. 

Visitors often report hearing whispers and footsteps, as though unseen entities are having conversations and walking alongside them. 

It’s not uncommon for people to feel an icy chill sweep through the room, even on the warmest of days, hinting at the presence of supernatural entities.

The Deansgate Tunnels

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The Deansgate Tunnels, while not a traditional house, carry enough ghostly tales to give anyone the chills. Abandoned and forgotten, these tunnels have become a haunting ground for lost spirits. 

In fact, the ‘Red Lady’, often seen in her flowing red dress, is the most prominent ghost here. Workers and visitors often report strange, disembodied whispers and echoing footsteps that seem to come from nowhere and everywhere at once.

In addition to the sightings of the ‘Red Lady’, other spectral entities have been reported within the Deansgate Tunnels. 

For instance, the chilling tale of a phantom child, often heard crying out for its mother in the darkest corners of the tunnels. 

This eerie sound, especially late at night, has sent shivers down the spines of many explorers and workers, adding an extra layer of chilling eeriness to the tunnels.

The Palace Theatre

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A city icon, the Palace Theatre’s age-old architecture and history seem to lend themselves to tales of the supernatural. The most famous ghost is a stagehand who died in an unfortunate accident. 

The ghostly ballerina and a spectral man sighted in the director’s box have also frightened many. The occasional whispering and murmuring heard during silent scenes, along with unexplained flickering of lights, add to the theatre’s eerie charm.

The stories of the Palace Theatre’s ghostly patrons extend beyond the stagehand, ballerina, and spectral man. 

There are accounts of the ghosts of actors past, still performing their roles to an empty theatre long after their final curtain call. Visitors have reported hearing spectral applause, laughter, and even music, as if phantoms of the theatre’s grand past refuse to leave their beloved stage.

The basement of the theatre, where props and costumes are stored, is another hotspot for paranormal activity. 

Workers often report feeling as if they’re being watched, and objects have been known to move inexplicably, as if unseen hands were still at work. 

These additional tales of spectral sightings and uncanny happenings further the Palace Theatre’s reputation as a haunted landmark within the city of Manchester.

The Albert Hall 

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The Albert Hall, known for its rich history and world-class performances, is also home to a mysterious lady in white. Visitors have reported seeing her standing majestically at the top of the main staircase, only to disappear when approached. 

Unexplained eerie laughter, flickering lights, and ghostly piano music that seems to emanate from nowhere are commonly reported by staff members and visitors.

Further adding to the mysterious atmosphere of Albert Hall are reports of ethereal figures spotted in the rafters, observing the performances from above. 

Stage performers and crew members have reported sensing unseen presences and receiving ghostly applause from the empty upper levels during rehearsals, lending a particularly eerie charm to the place.

The cellar of the Albert Hall is another site of intense paranormal activity. Staff members working late have reported hearing hushed whispers and feeling sudden cold spots, suggesting the presence of unseen entities. 

Some have even spoken about objects moving on their own, hinting at poltergeist activity. These additional layers of spectral occurrences solidify the Albert Hall’s standing as a place of both cultural significance and supernatural intrigue in Manchester.

Manchester Cathedral​​

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With centuries of history, the Manchester Cathedral is believed to harbour several lost souls. The ghost of a monk wandering the nave and the spectral choir that can be heard singing hymnals at night are commonly reported. 

Visitors have reported feeling a sudden chill and a sense of being watched, especially in the prayer areas.

Beyond these familiar encounters, there are numerous stories about the ‘Grey Lady’ seen in the cathedral grounds. 

Often sighted near the Lady Chapel, this spectral woman is thought to be a former worshipper whose devotion extends beyond life. Her fleeting appearances and the chill that accompanies her presence contribute to the aura of mystery that envelops the Manchester Cathedral.

Another unnerving account involves sightings of shadow figures, particularly around the Cathedral’s crypt. 

These figures, appearing as dark silhouettes against the ancient stone walls, seem to watch visitors from the shadows, fading away when noticed. 

The chilling whispers and faint echoes of prayers in Latin that are often heard in these areas only add to the cathedral’s ghostly lore. These additional tales of paranormal activity highlight the cathedral’s reputation as one of Manchester’s most haunted sites.

Manchester Town Hall

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With its towering gothic architecture, the Town Hall is the perfect setting for a haunting. The spectral figure of a Victorian-era policeman is often reported wandering the corridors late at night, especially by staff members working overtime. 

Whisperings heard in the council chambers and a sense of unease are other common occurrences associated with the Town Hall.

In addition to these chilling occurrences, many have reported sighting a ghostly figure, believed to be a former mayor, in the clock tower. 

This apparition, often seen looking out from the top of the tower, is thought to still oversee the city’s proceedings, symbolising an eternal commitment to Manchester’s welfare.

Alongside these individual apparitions, unusual phenomena have been observed in the Town Hall’s grand rooms. In particular, the Great Hall is known to reverberate with the spectral sounds of laughter and conversation, as if ghostly guests are attending an invisible banquet. 

There have also been reports of lights flickering without any apparent reason, and cold spots being felt in otherwise warm rooms. These ghostly encounters add an extra layer of mystery and intrigue to the already captivating Town Hall.

The Salford Lads Club

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What was once a boys’ club is now a popular community centre with its own spectral residents. Visitors and staff often report seeing a young boy from the early 20th century, either playing in the old games room or wandering the hallways. 

The laughter and chatter of unseen children echo through the empty rooms, leaving a chilling imprint on those who experience it.

Building upon these experiences, some visitors to the community centre have reported encountering the apparition of a stern, old schoolmaster. 

Often sighted in the main hall, this spectral figure is believed to be an eternal guardian, overseeing the activities within the centre. The sound of his footsteps, echoing in the silent corridors, has been known to cause an eerie chill among those who hear it.

Furthermore, certain areas of the centre, such as the basement, are known for sudden temperature drops and feelings of unease. 

Many people have reported a sense of being watched or followed, and objects are known to inexplicably move or fall off shelves, suggesting the possible presence of a poltergeist. 

These additional reports add to the centre’s reputation as a location rich with paranormal activity, making it a noteworthy spot for ghost enthusiasts in Manchester.

Piccadilly Station

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The bustling Piccadilly Station is said to have a resident ghost. Known as ‘The Crying Woman’, her sobs echo in the ladies’ restroom, particularly late at night. Descriptions of her appearance often include a 1940s-style coat and hat. 

The phantom weeping has led many to believe that the station is haunted by a lost soul seeking solace.

Apart from the heart-wrenching cries of ‘The Crying Woman’, there have been reports of other unexplained phenomena within Piccadilly Station. 

A spectral figure of a man, dressed in vintage railway uniform, has been reported by numerous station staff and visitors. This ghostly apparition is often seen near the old platform edges, vanishing as soon as anyone approaches.

Additionally, there have been instances of eerie whispers and laughter heard in the otherwise quiet waiting areas late at night. Some people have also experienced a sudden drop in temperature or an inexplicable breeze passing by, even in enclosed areas. 

These chilling accounts serve to amplify the aura of mystery that surrounds Piccadilly Station, making it another iconic haunt within Manchester.

The Old Wellington Inn 

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Being the oldest building in Manchester, The Old Wellington Inn is reputed to be a hotbed of ghostly activities. Patrons often report sightings of a man in Elizabethan-era clothes and unexplainable cold spots in certain areas of the building. 

The cellar, in particular, is believed to be a hotspot, with many reports of objects moving on their own and soft whispers that can’t be explained.

In addition to the man in Elizabethan-era clothes, visitors of The Old Wellington Inn have also reported encountering the apparition of a woman in Victorian dress. 

Her ghostly figure is often seen in the main bar area, vanishing as soon as anyone tries to interact with her. Some patrons have even reported feeling an unseen hand lightly brush against their shoulder when they sit in her favourite corner.

Moreover, the upper floors of the Inn, particularly the bedrooms, are known for their unsettling ambience. Guests often report feeling watched or waking up to find items in their room mysteriously rearranged. 

Sounds of footsteps, where no living person is present, often echo through these areas late at night, further enhancing the Inn’s reputation for paranormal activity. 

These additional haunting tales serve to underline The Old Wellington Inn’s status as a historical and spectral landmark within Manchester.

Ashton Old Baths 

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Now converted into a business centre, the Ashton Old Baths hold a past of spectral occurrences. The most common report is the haunting sound of children laughing and splashing in water, even though the pool has been drained for decades. 

The spectral figure of a drowned boy is often seen on the poolside, reinforcing the haunted reputation of the Baths.

Adding to these spectral tales, there have been numerous reports of a ghostly lifeguard who appears to be forever on duty. 

Seen patrolling the pool’s edge in an old-fashioned bathing suit, he is thought to be a previous employee whose commitment to his duty extends beyond death. 

His sudden appearances and the sounds of his phantom whistle have startled many visitors and staff members over the years.

Moreover, the changing rooms are known to be a hotspot for strange happenings. Staff members have reported hearing the sound of locker doors slamming shut and the rustle of clothing, despite the rooms being empty. 

There have also been reports of cold drafts and an overwhelming sense of unease in these areas. These haunting accounts continue to contribute to the lore surrounding Ashton Old Baths, cementing its place in Manchester’s ghostly history.

The John Rylands Library 

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Besides its vast collection of ancient books, The John Rylands Library is known for its ghostly inhabitants. Employees and visitors often report the apparition of a Victorian lady among the ancient texts. 

Some have also reported the spectral figure of a man, supposedly a former librarian, who seems to be forever engrossed in his work.

Further adding to the library’s paranormal reputation are accounts of ghostly whispers and the rustling of pages in otherwise silent sections of the library. 

This phenomenon is often attributed to the spirit of the Victorian lady, who is believed to be eternally engrossed in her love for literature.

The library’s historic reading rooms are another hotspot for strange occurrences. Staff members closing up for the night have reported the eerie sensation of being watched, and some have even felt a spectral hand lightly brushing against their shoulder. 

Occasionally, lights flicker without any apparent reason and books are found mysteriously rearranged or misplaced. 

These additional layers of spectral activity contribute to the fascinating aura of the John Rylands Library, enhancing its reputation as a location rich in both historical and paranormal significance in Manchester.

Smithills Hall 

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The mediaeval manor house, Smithills Hall, is famous for its resident spectres. The most prominent one is the ghost of George Marsh, a preacher who was executed for heresy. 

People often report feeling a sudden drop in temperature and a strange sensation of being watched. The ghostly presence of a lady in Victorian-era clothing has also been sighted frequently.

Apart from the spectral sightings of George Marsh and the lady in Victorian-era clothing, Smithills Hall is also home to other ghostly phenomena. There have been reports of a spectral dog, often seen in the manor’s old garden area. 

This spectral pet, though silent, often startles visitors by suddenly appearing and disappearing, contributing to the manor’s collection of ghostly tales.

In addition, the manor’s historic chapel is also known to be a hotspot for supernatural activities. People have reported hearing mysterious whispers and the faint sounds of hymn singing, despite the chapel being empty. 

The old wooden benches have also been known to creak without anyone sitting on them, as if invisible parishioners are attending a spectral service. 

These tales further intensify the haunting reputation of Smithills Hall, making it a must-visit location for paranormal enthusiasts visiting Manchester.

Manchester College

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This prestigious educational institution is thought to be home to a few ghosts. The most famous is a former headmaster, seen walking the halls late at night. 

Students also report hearing ghostly lectures in empty classrooms and seeing spectral students in vintage uniforms. 

Furthermore, there’s an uncanny sense of unease experienced in certain parts of the college, particularly the old library, that many attribute to the supernatural. The chills felt here are inexplicable, adding a layer of mystery to the already daunting college.

In addition to these eerie occurrences, the college’s centuries-old administrative wing is a hotspot for unexplained activity. 

Office staff working late into the night have reported hearing the sound of typewriters, despite none being present in the building. Additionally, the spectral figure of a former secretary has been seen, appearing to be forever engrossed in her paperwork.