11 of the most haunted places in Leeds and West Yorkshire
Dare you visit any of these haunted sites...?
Last updated 7th Oct 2021
Our rich industrial history and beautiful old architecture has given Leeds and West Yorkshire plenty of spooky locations.
We’ve been looking at the houses, theatres, stately homes, pubs and old mills that have many a ghostly tale to tell... read on if you dare!
Take a look at the most haunted places in Leeds and West Yorkshire:
Armley Mills
Now converted to Leeds Industrial Museum, Armley Mills has a ghoulish reputation. During its heyday this mill was once one of the largest woollen mills in England. Museum workers have said to have witnessed eerie figures lurking in the darkness. The mill mysteriously burnt down during the night in 1800.
Thwaite Mills
With over 300 years of history, it is no surprise that many have experienced paranormal activity at Thwaite Mills. It's one of the only fully restored and working water-powered mills left in Britain. Feel like you are being watched? That is probably the woman and young child who are said to walk around the attraction.
Temple Newsam
Temple Newsam is home to not one but two ghosts! Nursemaid Phoebe Gray, who was brutally murdered by servant William Collinson is said to command the corridors, seeking revenge on Will. Sir Arthur Ingram's granddaughter, who died at the estate two weeks after being robbed has been seen walking the halls at night.
Kirkstall Abbey
The spooky grounds of Kirkstall Abbey is rumoured to be home to ghostly 'Mary' who witnessed her husband commit murder. The former Abbott is also said to wander to site.
The Palace Pub
The Palace one of Leeds' most historic pubs is the home of the ghost of Michael Hill. He was an actor and singer who died in the pub in 1948. Michael is said to still be partying and supping pints with the regulars.
The Cardigan Arms
The spooky pubs continue with The Cardigan Arms. An old lady is said to spook punters in the women's toilets as they put their lippy on in the mirror!
Thackray Medical Museum
A former asylum and workhouse, Thackray Medical Museum is thought to be one of the most haunted places in Leeds. You may see a man in a white coat, or maybe the ghostly woman who waves and greets visitors from the windows.
Leeds Beckett University’s Headingley Campus
Cleaners have refused to work alone in both The James Graham Building (a former World War One hospital) and The Grange (the oldest building on campus). The latter is considered a hub of supernatural activity.
City Varieties Music Hall
A Victorian theatre with red velvet chairs and a piano said to play of its own accord well into the night after the shows are over.
Actors claim the ghostly sight of a red-haired woman is good omen for the success of a show and paintings on the walls are said have a life of their own!
The Leeds Library
The library dates back to 1768. The "pallid and hairless" figure of former Chief Librarian Thomas Sternberg has been seen by his successor.
Hassetts’ House
Built 350 years ago, occupiers of this house have heard voices coming from the fireplace, had pictures fall off the wall and doors slam. One family member has even encountered a dark shadowy figure grabbing him by the shoulders. The family dog refuses to go in the cellar.