Bellister Castle

Location of haunted place: Haltwhistle, Northumberland

Origin of the haunting: 16th Century

Background: Not much remains of the original 13th Century castle as many additions and alterations have been done over the years. Between 1901 - 1906, following a fire, the castle was rebuilt and restored. It is not open to the public, but is owned by the National Trust who let it on long-term lease to tenants. The most well-known owner was Lord Blenkinsopp whose family moved there in 1542. The ghost of the grey man tells the story.

Ghost Story: I was just a poor minstrel who traded entertainment for a roof over my head. The evening was going well, the Lord and his family were enjoying my music and stories. Then I noticed that Lord Blenkinsopp seemed to grow uneasy. He didn't trust people and watched me closely. I didn't blame him as there had been problems with Scottish raiding parties and he might have thought I was a spy.

Once I had finished I decided it would be better to leave and not upset his lordship. I was walking along the bank of the River Tyne when I heard a pack of dogs, howling and barking. I didn't stand a chance. They tore me to shreds before the Lord's men reached me.

I still visit the castle looking for shelter, but I am not a pretty sight.