Believed to have been built by Robert de Lacy, Clitheroe Castle was finished sometime in the 1180’s and its Norman keep has been a familiar landmark for over 800 years. During the civil war the keep received major damage after being captured by the Parliamentary forces, but was repaired in 1848. During the 14th century the Earl of Lancaster inherited the property, but after his and consequent execution, Clitheroe Castle became part of the royal estates.
Charles II then gave the property to the first Duke of Albernarle who had helped him regain the throne in 1660. The museum section of the castle was completed in the mid 1700’s, and actually stands on the cellar ofan earlier building dating from the 1500’s.
Today Clitheroe Castle is run and maintained by the local council. The castle has some fine views of the Ribble Valley, and Pendle Hill can be seen from parts of the castle.
In 2005 Most Haunted filmed at the castle with some interesting results.
As well as this colourful history the castle also has a darker side…its hauntings.
The White Lady
A haunted location would not be complete without its white lady apparition, and Clitheroe Castle is no
exception. She has been seen on a number of occasions, but nobody is really sure who this character could be…You never know, you may just get the chance to ask!
Spectral family
The ghosts of a male, female and young child have been seen around the castle. It is thought by some who have witnessed them they are all members of the same family.
Maid
A forlorn figure, believed to be a maid servant, has been seen within the castle buildings on a regular basis.
Again, nobody is sure as to whom this figure might be.
Soldier
A soldier believed to date from the 1900’s, is also said to haunt the castle and has been reported on many occasion.
As well as the above, the following phenomena have also been reported:
• Strange light anomalies
• Unaccountable odours
• Cold spots
• Inexplicable noises |
