Overview

Over 250 years of history, several documented deaths and many reports of ghostly activity make Merley House a top location for ghost hunts

Merley House Ghost Hunts, Dorset

Prepare for a spooky night of ghost hunting at Merley House, an 18th century, grade 1 listed, Georgian manor house that has been home to many notable people over the years as well as being used by the war office during the second World War. Over 250 years of history, several documented deaths and many reports of ghostly activity make Merley House a top location for ghost hunts. You will have access to many areas within the house so you can carry out your ghost hunt investigation and uncover the stories and secrets contained within the walls of Merley House. Don’t miss out on your chance to attend a ghost hunt at this grand, impressive building of historical significance. Book now!

Find out more history and ghostly information using the tabs above.

Your Event

Your Merley House ghost hunt with Haunted Houses you will have exclusive access to the building/location during the evening. You will learn all about ghost hunting and the techniques used to encourage paranormal activity. We have a whole host of scientific ghost hunt equipment for you to use to aid communication with the spirits. You can take part in Ouija boards, glass divination and table tipping; the more traditional ghost hunt techniques. Or simply sitting in the dark and asking for the spirits to interact with you. Lone vigils (ghost hunting alone) will also be offered where available. During your evening you will be split into smaller groups so you can get the most out of your experience. If you are new to ghost hunting we warn you now – by the end of the night you may just become addicted to the fascinating and intriguing world of ghost hunting.

This is a real ghost hunt experience, there is no fakery, tricks or actors jumping out at you. What are you waiting for? Book your places today from just £20 deposit!

Haunted Houses look forward to welcoming you at this amazing building and sharing a night that you will not forget.

Reported Ghosts

There have been many reports of ghostly activity at Merley House and with over 250 years of history, the many owners/tenants that have been associated with the house over the years as well as its association with the war office, this comes as no surprise. Staff and visitors alike have lain witness to many ghostly sightings and paranormal activity, including seeing figures moving through walls. Strange noises, taps, bangs, deathly voices have also been heard.

Over the years there are at least three reported deaths at Merley House. The most notable tenant was that of William Charles Wentworth, the famous Australian explorer, author, barrister and landowner; he died at the property in 1872. Another notable tenant was William John Bethell, a captain in the 103rd Foot who passed away at Merley House in 1831.

In 1914, Lady Cornelia Wimborne inherited Merley House (as well as several other estates) and moved into the property. She was born Lady Cornelia Henrietta Maria Spencer-Churchill and her nephew was Winston Churchill. Lady Cornelia died at Merley House in 1927

Could it be these spirits that cause so much paranormal activity at Merley House? Maybe you will contact them on the night and find out the stories of times gone by.

Venue History

Merley (originally spelt Myrle) was an ancient manor belonging to the Lords of Canford. In 1751, Ralph Willett purchased the estate and is responsible for the building of the larger and much grander house we see today.

In 1772 two wings were added one of which contained the new library as Willetts vast collection had outgrown the existing library in the house. Unfortunately, these two wings were demolished in the early 1800s following an auction of the books and paintings they housed by the then owner, John Willett.

In 1875 the whole estate was sold by auction but there is little information as to whom it was sold until it was bought by Ivor Guest, 1st Lord of Wimborne. In 1927, the MP for South Dorset, Angus Valdemar Hambro purchased the estate in a dilapidated condition, spending two years renovating it.

In 1939 the outbreak of war meant that the house was requisitioned by the War office. When they left in 1946 the house was again sold at auction. Now down to just 270 acres it was sold in 14 lots and the house was converted into flats.

During the 1960s a holiday park was started, by the present owners, to help finance the restoration of the house. The ground floor was opened to the public and contained a collection of model cars, lorries, airplanes, ships and train sets. Most recently the downstairs was restored again to create spacious and elegant areas for different events.