Sentry Ghost of Baconsthorpe Castle

In Norfolk, England, hidden away and nestled among farms and fields lay the ruins of Baconsthorpe Castle. The castle, which was built in the 15th century by the Heydon family, was constructed despite the need for a required license to crenelate. Its most prominent feature is the massive gatehouse, which was originally reached by a drawbridge across the moat. The moat was dug around the castle, and its eastern arm was later widened into an ornamental mere. An outer gatehouse was added just to the south of the castle.

Baconsthorpe Castle, which was largely demolished around 1650 and left in ruins, currently resides as a peaceful place for a picnic. Its serene atmosphere is temporarily interrupted by the occasional family of bicycle riders stopping for a visit. But the castle ruins are still home to one.

As Richard tells the story ...

The sleepy ambiance of the castle has made it difficult for at least one former resident to leave. Many visitors have heard the sound of plopping and, on turning, have discovered ripples radiating outward across the glassy surface of the moat. Looking up, they see a ghostly sentry standing on the walls, lobbing "plum stones" into the otherwise peaceful water. No one knows who he is, and since his spectral activity is undisruptive, witnesses are content to leave him to enjoy his harmless fun.

- Richard Jones