Dudley Castle,
West Midlands
Dudley Castle is the ruins of a medieval fortress set high up on the hills overlooking Dudley and beyond. The earliest form of this building was built in around 1070 under the Normans. Since then it has undergone extension and renovation, changing from a wooden construction to a fortified stone building between 1100 - 1300 AD.
During the 1530s, John Dudley renovated the site into a palace, which was later deliberately ruined by the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War in 1646. In 1750, it suffered a huge blaze, adding to the damaged structure.
The site became a public zoo in the 1930s, and remained open during the second world war to maintain morale. Limestone caverns and tunnels that run beneath Castle hill are believed to have been used as air raid shelters for local citizens during the war time bombings over the UK.
Who is this suitable for?
- anyone interested in English History
- anyone with an interest in the paranormal
- those preferring events with fewer guests
- those who don't scare easily!
Paranormal findings
The building is reputed to be one of the most haunted buildings in the UK. Reported activity includes:
- sightings of the famous Grey Lady, believed to be Dorothy beaumont who died following childbirth. She is reported to wander around the site, especially the Keep, searching for her deceased child.
- the figure of the Black Monk: a dark, hooded figure who is often sighted near to the chapel ruins and in the main castle archway.
- the figures of soldiers from various years
- the sightings of the Drummer Boy: believed to be the spirit of a young Royalist soldier who was shot near to the castle walls during the Civil War. Guests report hearing the beat of the drums long after the war ended.
- sudden changes in temperature indoors
- the sound of footsteps when everyone is standing still
- guests being touched by unseen hands
- Sightings of ghostly animals include:
- the White Horse, silently moving within the castle ruins and vanishing through walls;
- the Witch's Black Cat, who remains loyal to her owner even in death, after she was accused of witchcraft and thrown from the battlements. Guests report meowing or seeing the shadow of a cat;
- the ghost cheetah - modern reports of sightings of a cheetah, prowling the land beyond the castle walls at night.
Site Information
This is an original medieval building with rooms mostly on the ground floor level. There are some uneven floors, with cobbles in the steep entry walkway beneath the arches.
Guests are advised to wear layers to allow for temperature changes during the evening. Some activity may be outside, but will be weather dependant.
The location has steps to the Keep - anyone with mobility concerns should contact us prior to booking to discuss specific situations.
There may be long periods of standing or walking involved as part of the investigation.
Guests should bring their own torches and any equipment they may wish to use. They bring their own belongings at their own risk.
The site has indoor toilets and light refreshments will be provided.
Further details regarding secure parking will be confirmed with confirmation emails prior to the event. Due to security measures, guests are expected to remain on site until the end of the event, except in the event of a medical emergency. If you feel this may be a concern, please contact us prior to booking.
This event does not include access to the zoo or any animal exhibits. The zoo remains closed during the event.
Events at Dudley Castle
FAQs - Dudley Castle
Got a question about this event? see top FAQs below, or click on the FAQ link to see more.
Is Dudley Castle haunted?
Dudley Castle is one of those locations that features on many ghost hunters' lists of venues to visit - and they often visit again and again becasue of their experiences!
There are many reports of ghostly events happening at this location. These include seeing figures of people and animals, hearing footsteps, and uneasy feelings around the location.
See the event description for paranormal reports.
Is this suitable for beginners
Yes - this is suitable for all levels of experience from first time ghost hunters to seasoned investigators!
The ghost hunting world is a friendly community with shared interests.
What will happen during the ghost hunt?
Each event is carefully planned so that you get the most time investigating the venue. You will work in small groups with experienced hosts who will guide the session, supporting you to use a range of investigation approaches. This is your investigation!
What do I need to bring?
Layers of clothing can be useful as temperatures can drop overnight - even indoors. A torch and sensible footwear are essential - there is a lot of standing involved.
Any snacks you would like to keep you going during the night.
We have a range of kit for you to use - or bring your own!