A Haunted Walk Through Frome: The Guided Ghost Tour
If you’re looking for an evening that blends history, local legends, and a touch of the supernatural, the Guided Ghost Tour of Frome offers an intriguing peek into this historic town’s darker side. For just under $25, you’ll spend about an hour and ten minutes wandering through winding cobbled streets, hearing stories of ghostly apparitions, historic hangings, and secret tunnels. Your guide, the Rev. Joseph Glanvill, a character-rich storyteller dressed in clerical robes and wig, takes you on a journey that feels like stepping back into Frome’s shadowy past.
What we love most about this experience is the expert storytelling—the Rev. Glanvill’s detailed tales and playful in-character narration make each stop come alive. We also appreciated the small group size, limited to just 10 people, which ensures everyone stays engaged and can ask questions. On the downside, this tour involves some steep cobbled streets and uneven pavement, so a reasonable level of mobility is recommended.
This ghostly adventure suits travelers who enjoy local history, atmospheric storytelling, and authentic experiences. It’s especially appealing if you’re intrigued by the idea of haunted pubs, medieval tunnels, and the ghosts of those long gone but not forgotten. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour offers enough intrigue and atmosphere to keep you captivated.
Key Points
- Authentic storytelling: The Rev. Glanvill’s in-character narration makes the stories vivid and memorable.
- Historic sites: Stops include ancient pubs, a Saxon monastery, and old streets with stories of past riots and executions.
- Small groups: Max 10 travelers ensure a personal and engaging experience.
- Atmospheric locations: From medieval tunnels to haunted pubs, each site adds to the spooky ambiance.
- Affordable value: At just under $25, this tour offers a rich mix of history and ghost stories.
- Accessible timing: The tour starts at 7 pm, perfect for after dinner or an early evening adventure.
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Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect
The Starting Point and Atmosphere
The tour begins at Christchurch Cemetery on Christchurch Street West, where you’ll meet your guide dressed as Rev. Joseph Glanvill—complete with wig and clerical robes. This theatrical touch immediately sets a tone of fun and mystery. We loved that the guide’s dedication to the character drew us fully into the experience, making it feel less like a lecture and more like stepping into a ghostly storybook.
First Stop: Christ Church
The tour kicks off outside Christ Church, where the guide introduces the history of the town and previews the stories to come. The sense of anticipation builds quickly as you learn about Frome’s medieval past and its ghostly legends. Since this is a quick 5-minute stop, it’s a great introduction that sets the scene without dragging on.
The Haunted Pubs: The Griffin, Lamb and Fountain, and The Sun Inn
One of the highlights is visiting haunted pubs—each with its own spooky reputation. The Griffin is reputed to have paranormal activities, and the guide shares tales of strange noises and eerie encounters. The Lamb and Fountain boasts an Elizabethan ice house and reports of strange sounds at night, adding a tangible historical layer to the ghost stories. The Sun Inn is another haunted spot, with recountings of spooky incidents that have left patrons unsettled.
These pub stops aren’t just about stories; they’re about experiencing the atmosphere—the creaky wooden floors, shadowy corners, and historic cellars. As several reviews mention, the guide’s storytelling kept everyone captivated, blending history and legend seamlessly.
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Secret Tunnels and Ancient Sites
Walking past Shepherds Barton on Catherine Hill, you’ll hear tales of secret tunnels, bones, and hidden chambers discovered beneath the town. These stories add a layer of mystery to Frome’s medieval roots. The guide also points out St. John the Baptist Church, built on Saxon monastery remains, guarding ancient spirits—adding historical depth to the ghostly narratives.
The Darker Side of Frome’s History
The tour takes you along Cork Street, where the Duke of Monmouth stayed before his execution, and past sites of riots and murders at The George Hotel & Granary. Here, the guide recounts the tragic and violent moments of Frome’s past, including the 12 men hanged, whose choking sounds are still said to be heard. This part of the walk offers a stark reminder of the town’s turbulent history and why its ghosts might still linger.
The Mysterious Grey Lady and Paranormal Coach
The final stops include Willow Vale, where the Grey Lady waits in vain for her lover, and stories of a paranormal coach rattling through Frome. These stories leave you with a sense of lingering spirits and the unseen world that still interacts with the town’s present.
The Experience: What Makes It Special
The Guided Narration
Based on numerous reviews, what makes this tour stand out is the Rev. Glanvill’s storytelling—a blend of historical facts and theatrical flair that keep everyone engaged. Reviewers praise his knowledge and charismatic delivery, with one noting he was “very friendly seeing he is 800 years old,” highlighting the playful, immersive nature of the tour.
The Atmosphere and Locations
From ancient pubs with “strange sounds” at night to medieval tunnels and haunted churches, each location is carefully chosen to evoke a sense of history and mystery. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience—no one is just a face in the crowd. Walking through the cobbled streets with the guide’s stories weaving around you creates a visceral sense of connection to the past.
Value for Money
At $24.64 per person, this tour provides a rich blend of local stories, history, and atmospheric settings. Many reviews mention it as “great value” for the money, especially since it includes detailed historical insights and ghostly tales that you might not find in guidebooks.
Practical Considerations
The route involves pavement walking and some steep cobbled streets, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven surfaces. The start time of 7 pm makes it ideal for an early evening activity, and since the tour is limited to 10 people, you’ll likely find plenty of opportunity to ask questions or get more details from the guide.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This ghost tour is best suited for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and curious travelers looking for a unique way to experience Frome. If you appreciate authentic local stories and theatrical storytelling, you’ll enjoy the immersive atmosphere. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with a small group who enjoys engaging, well-led tours.
While not suited for those with major walking disabilities due to some steep cobbled streets, most able-bodied travelers should find the experience manageable and rewarding.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider It
This Guided Ghost Tour of Frome offers a well-balanced mix of history, storytelling, and atmospheric locations. It’s a delightful way to see a town full of ghosts and legends, all brought vividly to life by a knowledgeable and entertaining guide. The small-group format ensures a personal, engaging experience that feels authentic rather than touristy.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories and atmosphere will leave you with a sense of the town’s long, sometimes troubled past—and perhaps even a whisper or two from its spectral residents. For a modest price, you get an experience that’s both educational and fun, perfect for an evening adventure in South West England.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults and involves walking on uneven, cobbled streets. Children who can handle moderate walking and are interested in ghost stories might enjoy it, but it’s best for older kids or teenagers.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, which is a manageable time for most travelers without feeling rushed.
What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Christ Church, haunted pubs like The Griffin, Lamb and Fountain, and The Sun Inn, secret tunnels at Shepherds Barton, St. John the Baptist Church, Cork Street, the George Hotel & Granary, and Willow Vale.
Is this a walking or driving tour?
It’s entirely on foot, mostly pavement with some steep cobbled streets, so wear comfortable shoes.
Can I join the tour if I’m not local?
Yes, it’s open to visitors, and most likely enjoyable for travelers exploring Frome.
What’s the best time to book?
The tour is usually booked about 15 days in advance, and starting at 7 pm is ideal for hearing the stories when it’s dark.
Are tickets refundable?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if your plans change.
Are private transportation or dinner included?
No, these are not included; plan to arrange your own transportation and perhaps enjoy a meal before or after.
Is gratuity expected?
Tipping the guide is optional but appreciated if you enjoyed the tour.
Can the tour accommodate service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.
In all, this ghost tour offers a charming, atmospheric way to connect with Frome’s long history and ghostly legends. Perfect for a memorable evening of storytelling and exploration in one of South West England’s most historic towns.