OUR HISTORY
Nestled within the ancient city walls of Chester stands Ye Olde Kings Head, a striking timber-framed building that is far more than just a charming hotel and pub. It's a living, breathing piece of history, where centuries of stories, and indeed spirits, are woven into its very fabric. Step inside, and you'll find yourself on a journey through time, a journey that might just send a shiver down your spine.
From Grand Residence to Historic Inn:
The story of Ye Olde Kings Head begins remarkably far back, with its foundations dating to around 1208. Originally, this impressive structure served as the town home for Peter the Clerk, a significant figure who administered Chester Castle. Imagine the bustling life within these walls even then, as important decisions were made and daily life unfolded in what would have been a grand residence for its time.
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Over the centuries, the building underwent transformations. While its most prominent, beautiful timber-framed façade dates to 1622 (the Stuart period), it absorbed architectural changes and witnessed the evolving face of Chester. During the 15th and early 17th centuries, sections of the famous Chester Rows, which once ran through the building, were enclosed. Today, if you look closely on the middle floor, you can still spot the support pillars that were once part of these unique medieval walkways.
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For over 300 years, from at least 1714 onwards, Ye Olde Kings Head has embraced its role as a public house and hotel. It became a vital hub, a place of welcome for weary travellers, bustling merchants, and local residents seeking good company, food, and drink. One can easily picture the lively scenes: the clinking of tankards, the murmur of conversations, and the warmth of a roaring fire, all contributing to the unique atmosphere that defines the Kings Head to this day. There's even a sword, discovered hidden beneath the floorboards during a 1930s refurbishment, now proudly displayed in the bar, hinting at untold tales of its previous inhabitants.
​The Unseen Residents
Beyond its documented history, Ye Olde Kings Head has earned a formidable reputation as one of the UK's most haunted buildings. The sheer age of the structure, combined with the countless lives lived, loved, and perhaps tragically lost within its walls, seems to have left an indelible energetic imprint. Many believe these lingering energies manifest as the hotel's resident spirits, making it a hotspot for paranormal activity.
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Accounts from guests, staff, and experienced paranormal investigators speak of numerous unexplained occurrences, painting a picture of a vibrant, unseen world coexisting with our own:
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The Man in Black: One of the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a "man in black," often seen in Room 6. A particularly famous account from New Year's Eve 1982 describes a female guest waking to find this shadowy figure silently observing her from the foot of her bed. Despite his presence, she reported feeling a sense of calm rather than fear before he vanished.
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The Playful Child: Room 4 is said to be a favourite haunt of a ghostly child. Guests have reported hearing disembodied giggles, the sounds of small footsteps, and even the unsettling presence of a young one who never left. Poltergeist activity, such as items being moved or drawn on mirrors, has also been attributed to this youthful spirit.
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The Lady in Grey: Often glimpsed on the stairs or in the corridors, this figure is believed to be a former resident or servant. Her presence is usually described as melancholic and quiet, adding to the hotel's ethereal atmosphere.
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Echoes of the Past: Beyond specific figures, the Kings Head is alive with general paranormal activity. Guests and investigators frequently report unexplained cold spots, disembodied voices, whispers, and the distinct sound of footsteps on empty staircases. Doors have been known to open and close on their own, and lights flicker without explanation.
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Civil War Soldiers and More: Given Chester's crucial role in the English Civil War, it's believed that some of the lingering spirits may be those of soldiers or others caught up in the conflict. Some theories also suggest the presence of spirits from when parts of the building may have operated as a brothel, adding to the diverse spectral population.
The Present Day: My Haunted Hotel
Today, Ye Olde Kings Head continues its long tradition of hospitality, offering comfortable accommodation and a welcoming pub atmosphere on its lower floors. However, the upper floors and hotel rooms have taken on a thrilling new identity, becoming the renowned "My Haunted Hotel". This transformation has elevated the building's already legendary paranormal reputation, making it a unique destination for those seeking a genuine and immersive ghost-hunting experience.
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The concept behind "My Haunted Hotel" is simple yet revolutionary: to provide a truly documented and evidence-based paranormal investigation. Recognizing the frequent activity reported by previous guests, the decision was made to rig the entire hotel's upper levels with a sophisticated network of 24/7 night-vision and thermal cameras. This constant surveillance captures every unexplained movement, sound, and visual anomaly, providing compelling evidence of the paranormal.
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Guests of "My Haunted Hotel" aren't just staying in a haunted building; they are actively participating in a live paranormal investigation. They have the opportunity to spend a night in the very rooms where countless unexplained phenomena have occurred, equipped with walkie-talkies to communicate with a dedicated control room team. This team monitors the camera feeds throughout the night, guiding guests and noting any activity.
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The findings from "My Haunted Hotel" have been so significant that they've become the subject of a popular Amazon Prime Video series, showcasing real people experiencing real, unexplainable events. The project aims to bring a scientific and rational perspective to paranormal research, offering transparency and allowing the general public to witness the compelling evidence firsthand. It's an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the mysteries that linger within the historic walls of Ye Olde Kings Head, where the past isn't just remembered, it's still very much present.
