Whether you believe in things that go bump in the night or are just fascinated with gory histories, Greater Manchester’s got plenty of spooky places to explore.
From the pub that’s said to be one of the most haunted in the UK to stately homes still occupied by former residents, there are allegedly haunted buildings all over the region.
This interactive map shows where to find the 10 most haunted places in our corner of the north west, and even the descriptions are enough to give you chills.
Now a fancy hotel with stunning interiors, the map warns of ghostly goings-on in room 261, where guests have reported hearing the sound of children playing in the middle of the night.
ADVERTISEMENT
Kimpton Clocktower is said to be one of the most haunted places in Greater Manchester. Credit: Unsplash
One of the hotel’s ghosts is said to be a grieving war widow who threw herself down one of the hotel’s main stairways.
The Peveril of the Peak pub is another city centre venue named on the haunted list, where spooky but weirdly helpful happenings include shattered glass clearing itself up and glasses taking themselves to the glass-wash.
ADVERTISEMENT
There are stately homes like Ordsall Hall (where a jilted bride roams the halls and the ghost of a young girl plays with visiting children), Wythenshawe Hall (haunted by Mary Webb, or the Lady in White, who sobs around the hall in a long white dress) and Ryecroft Hall (expect sudden changes in temperature, unexplained smells and objects such as cigarette stubs mysteriously falling from a balcony).
One of the actors who performed at Oldham’s Coliseum Theatre is said to have never left in spirit.
Harold Norman was accidentally stabbed to death during a sword fight scene in a performance in 1947, and now audiences still report cold sensations and moving seats.
ADVERTISEMENT
It’s been created by Salford-based web design agency Supremo, whose art director Elly Cordy said: “There’s no better place to visit than Manchester during the month of October.
“It’s the perfect place to celebrate Halloween and so we wanted to map out some of the most iconic and spooky spots.”
Featured image: Wikimedia Commons
Boroughs
10 hot properties for sale in Greater Manchester | November 2024
Emily Sergeant
Every month, we show you some of the hottest properties currently on the market in Greater Manchester.
It’s safe to say that Mancunians love a good nosey around other peoples’ houses, and after all, Greater Manchester is a brilliant place to live.
But what can your money currently get you in the area?
In our monthly Hot Property series, we scour the internet to find 10 more of the most diverse, jaw-dropping, accessible, and beautifully-presented homes currently on the market in Greater Manchester for you to take a look at.
___
Millgate
Egerton, Bolton, Greater Manchester, BL7
Claves
Millgate / Credit: Claves
Detached | x4 Bedrooms | x2 Bathrooms
Situated at the end of a quiet residential street in the popular Bolton village of Egerton, which is highly-regarded for its local schools, and access to nearby amenities and transport links across Greater Manchester and beyond, is this four-bedroom detached family home that’s being offered to the market in immaculate condition.
Ready for growing families of all sizes to move straight into, the property has been renovated by the current owners to a very high standard, and now boasts flexible living spaces that are bright, modern, and open-plan.
Externally, the property has garden areas to the rear, and comes with off-road driveway parking for several vehicles.
Millgate / Credit: Claves
The property is currently on the market Bolton-based independent estate agents, Claves, for £575,000 (Offers Over).
How would you like to own your very-own piece of Manchester history? Well now you can. That’s because there’s a well-presented two-bedroom maisonette is currently on the market on Ancoats’ iconic Anita Street, and it’s merely a stone’s throw away from all the convenient amenities on offer in the city centre, as well as being close to public transport links taking you across the region.
Being offered to the market in the enviable position of having no onward chain, this means the property is ready to move straight into.
The property also comes with designated parking.
ADVERTISEMENT
Anita Street / Credit: Goodwin Fish
The property is currently on the market with Manchester-based independent estate agents, Goodwin Fish, for £310,000 (Offers Over).
Occupying a commanding position on an attractive residential road in the Swinley area of Wigan, which is close to a wide range of amenities, good local schooling options, and transport links across Greater Manchester, is this stunning five-bedroom Victorian semi-detached family home that estate agents say is “brimming with character and charm” throughout.
Having been mostly restored by the current owners, this property is now ideally-suited to someone looking for a truly impressive home that they are still able to put their own stamp on.
The property backs directly on to Whitley Reservoir from the rear garden, and also comes with ample off-road driveway parking.
Spencer Road / Credit: Morgan H Lewis
The property is currently on the market with Wigan-based independent estate agents, Morgan H Lewis, for £485,950 (Offers in the Region of).
If you’re looking for an immaculately-presented apartment within a beautiful historic building, then this property could be just what you’re looking for.
Situated in the Grade II-listed Stableford Hall in the heart of Monton – a highly sought-after location renowned for its charm and vibrant community, as well as being conveniently close to Salford’s many amenities, local schooling options, and transport links – is this three-bedroom apartment that estate agents describe as being “expertly crafted”.
The property has been tastefully-modernised, while still retaining original features like beams and vaulted ceilings, and it comes with securely-gated parking for residents.
Stableford Hall / Credit: Thornley Groves
The property is currently on the market with the Monton branch of independent estate agents, Thornley Groves, for £375,000.
Said to be “steeped in historical significance”, and therefore a rare addition to the Greater Manchester housing market, is this magnificent three-bedroom semi-detached family home located just a short stroll from the vibrant Heaton Moor village, as well as all the amenities, good local schools, and convenient transport links that make it such a highly-regarded area to live.
ADVERTISEMENT
Estate agents say this home represents a truly “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for prospective buyers, as it’s full of beautiful period features, and extensive renovations, as well as its enviable location.
The property boasts a vast front courtyard with ample off-road parking to the front, and a breathtaking garden to the rear.
Didsbury Road / Credit: Philip James Kennedy
The property is currently on the market with the Heaton Moor branch of independent estate agents, Philip James Kennedy, for £1.1 million.
Situated on a highly sought-after development in Bury, but described by estate agents as “standing apart from others in the area” due to its modern external look, is this absolutely stunning three-bedroom detached bungalow that has undergone a major remodelling and refurbishment by the current owners a couple of years back.
No expense has been spared with the renovations, with some of the key updates to the property including a new roof, rewiring, re-plastering, a new kitchen with integrated appliances, a fitted ensuite, and new flooring throughout.
ADVERTISEMENT
Externally, the property has an integrated garage and off-road driveway parking for several vehicles.
Newington Drive / Credit: Miller Metcalfe
The property is currently on the market with the Bury branch of local estate agency chain, Miller Metcalfe, for £425,000.
Occupying an enviable position in the sought-after Tameside village of Mottram, which is known and loved for its rural feel while still being conveniently-close to all the local amenities, good schools, and transport links needed for daily life, is this attractive stone-built family home boasting five spacious bedrooms and lots of flexible living spaces.
Estate agents say the property is “deceptively spacious” and offers growing families, or those who value open-plan living, a unique blend of modern living and period charm.
Externally, the property offers an inviting extension of the home, and is perfect for relaxation and entertaining.
ADVERTISEMENT
Church Brow / Credit: EweMove
The property is currently on the market with the North West branch of estate agency chain, EweMove, for £495,000 (Offers in Excess of).
Occupying a prime position in the heart of Diggle, which is one of Oldham’s most sought-after villages, and backing onto picturesque hills with far-reaching panoramic views, is this three-bedroom detached family home that that has been tastefully-modernised throughout and is now being offered to the market in immaculate condition.
A true credit to the current owners, some of the stunning property’s stand-out features include a modern open-plan kitchen and dining space, which opens to the sitting room/snug, and four double bedrooms, two with en-suites.
There is a double driveway for off-road parking to the front of the property, and large landscaped gardens to the rear.
Littlemoor Lane / Credit: Kirkham Property
The property is currently on the market with the Uppermill branch of independent estate agents, Kirkham Property, for £600,000.
Arguably one of the most impressive properties currently on the market within one of Greater Manchester’s most sought-after residential villages is this immaculate seven-bedroom detached family home nestled in a secluded and exclusive cul-de-sac in Hale Barns, offering prospective buyers both privacy and elegance in equal measure.
Presented across three expansive floors, the property features four reception rooms, a fully equipped open-plan kitchen ideal for modern living, seven spacious double bedrooms, and five luxurious bath/shower rooms.
The home is accessed through a gated entrance which leads to a large gravel driveway, attached garage, and beautifully-landscaped gardens that surround the side and rear of the property.
Elmsway / Credit: Jackson-Stops
The property is currently on the market with Hale branch of independent estate agents, Jackson Stops, for a Guide Price of £2.75 million.
This two-bedroom detached true bungalow is located within the desirable Rochdale district of Thornham – which is ideally placed for amenities, good local schools, and access to public transport links – and offers prospective buyers a unique opportunity to live on one of the area’s most sought-after residential roads.
The property has been completely modernised by the current owners over the last year, and estate agents says “no expense has been spared” with the renovations undertaken.
As well as the light and spacious accommodations on offer inside the property, externally, this home sits on a good-sized plot with a garden to the front, and a paved driveway that leads to the attached garage.
Ferndale Avenue / Credit: Ryder & Dutton
The property is currently on the market with the Royton branch of local estate agents, Ryder & Dutton, for £475,000.
The best things to do in Greater Manchester this week | 18 – 24 November 2024
Emily Sergeant
Who’s ready for another week filled with festivities?
The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching, so as you can imagine, there’s absolutely no shortage of Christmas-themed activities for the whole family to be getting up to across Greater Manchester throughout this week.
Finding it a bit tricky to pick what to do though?
We’ve chosen a few of the best bits for another edition of our ‘what’s on‘ guide, so here’s some of our recommendations.
___
Manchester Christmas Markets 2024
Manchester City Centre
Monday 18 November – Sunday 22 December
Manchester Christmas Markets 2024 / Credit: Manchester City Council | Flickr
Manchester Christmas Markets are now back open for 2024.
The iconic annual event is an absolute staple in Manchester’s festive events calendar, and always draws in thousands of visitors from all across the globe – with hundreds of stalls across several sites all lining the streets of our city centre.
Visitors are able to tuck into a wide range of festive foods and drinks, and shop for Christmas gifts from countless independent traders.
Find out everything you need to know about Manchester Christmas Markets 2024 here.
___
Skate Manchester 2024
Cathedral Gardens
Monday 18 November – onwards
Skate Manchester 2024 / Credit: Matt Eachus (via Supplied)
What’s a festive season in the city without Skate Manchester?
Back once again for 2024, Skate Manchester is festive staple, and this year, skaters can glide across a gleaming ice path and spin around a dazzling seven-metre Christmas tree taking centre stage in the middle of the rink.
Families, friends, and festive fun seekers will be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas whatever the weather has in store for our city this year too, as although the rink will be outdoors in the heart of Cathedral Gardens, the ice is fully covered.
Bar Hütte’s legendary karaoke cabins are back in Manchester once again.
Bringing Alpine vibes, cosy furnishings, twinkling lights, live music sessions, and flowing drinks to two city centre locations from this Thursday onwards, dozens of cosy private hüttes neatly-positioned under twinkling lights are now open down at both Kampus and Great Northern Square.
There’s also a handful of other events on the lineup throughout the festive season, including live music and DJs, wreath making workshops, and movie nights.
A brand-new festive light trail has arrived in Greater Manchester for the winter, transforming the hidden Wilderspool Woods at the Trafford Centre into a twinkling wonderland.
The 4.5-acre event running until early 2025 has brought dozens of jaw-dropping light and interactive illuminations to the woods, filling paths and treetops with festive magic, from giant overhead shooting stars to huge illuminated presents.
The magnificent grounds of Tatton Park have been transformed into a ‘glittering winter adventure’ for the festive season.
Families will be whisked away into a world of folklore, enchantment, and enthralling performances as they enter the gardens of the stunning Tatton Park in Cheshire for an immersive, festival-like experience known as Yuletide.
Organisers say the captivating event promises to be a “truly magical experience” where folklore stories come to life through storytelling and live music.
The Oast House’s legendary Christmas has returned to Spinningfields for the festive season.
Bound to be popular spot for locals and those who’ve finished a hard day at work during the colder months, The Teepee officially reopened last week and is made up of three tents joined together with a huge open hub, complete with two roaring fires, twinkling fairy lights, faux fur throws.
After proving to be a huge success in 2023, the magical Land of Lights has returned to Gulliver’s World once again, and this year features all-new lanterns inspired by the wonders of nature, leading visitors around a twinkling wonderland filled with light and colour.
With a WonderWild theme, the breathtaking spectacle over in Warrington has a unique blend of “animal-inspired artistry with a fantastical twist”.
The Grotto at the Trafford Centre / Credit: Supplied
The main man is making our northern city his new home at one of Greater Manchester’s biggest shopping centres this winter time.
Starting in this Saturday and running all the way up until Christmas Eve, Santa is swapping the cold air of the North Pole for the cloudy skies of Manchester, as he starts his annual journey around the world by making a visit to our region.
Not only is Santa travelling with his grotto, he’s also giving visitors the chance to experience the world of the North Pole as he brings the chilly destination to the Trafford Centre.
A brand-new festive hub has arrived in Spinningfields, and you’ll be able to visit a new ice rink, drink cocktails in a snow globe-like rooftop dome, and get merry in a yurt.
Winter Assembly at Courts Club is home to the city’s newest, fully-independent ice rink, On Ice, as well as lots of different food traders serving up winter gyros from Lucky Gyros, festive grilled cheeses, boozy hot chocolate, German BBQ specials, and so much more.
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake / Credit: Lowry | New Adventures
Matthew Bourne’s rule-breaking reinvention of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, Swan Lake, is back on stage in Greater Manchester this week.
This world-renowned production – which is known for replacing the female corps-de-ballet with a menacing male ensemble – first premiered almost 30 years ago, but it will take flight once more in a major new revival for the next generation, with The Lowry being one of the stops on its major UK tour.
Described as being “thrilling, bold, witty, and emotive”, it’s time to turn tradition on its head, and this is not one to miss.
Rochdale town centre is hosting its very own festive-themed Fire Festival this weekend, and it’s completely free to visit.
Taking place from this Friday leading up to the Christmas lights switch-on on Sunday, Ignite will be transforming the gardens opposite Rochdale Town Hall into a flamed-fuelled spectacular, with three free night-time shows delivering a magical trail of fire, lights, and entertainment for all the family.
There will also be hot food, mulled wine, and other seasonal drinks available to buy.
Christmas Screenings at King Street Townhouse / Credit: KSTH
Elf, Love Actually, and Home Alone are just some of the classic Christmas films hitting the big screen at a hidden cinema in Manchester.
Film fans looking for some wholesome festive fun are being invited to get themselves down to one of Manchester’s most popular hotels, King Street Townhouse, in the run-up to the big day itself, as it’s very-own exclusive cinema will be screening a jam-packed lineup of fan-favourite festive films over the next couple of weeks.
East Lancashire Railway’s beloved Santa steam train rides are back for more festive fun this Christmas.
Running right through until Christmas Eve, ELR’s ‘Santa Specials’ are your chance to hop on board an old-school steam train and travel through the magical Irwell Valley to make “enchanted memories” that last a lifetime.
The famous festive steam trains have become an essential part of Christmas for many families in the North West, and there’s still some tickets left available.
Music of the Movies / Credit: The Bridgewater Hall | Kazuo Ota (via Unsplash)
Call yourself a cinephile? This is your chance to experience the epic and inspirational music from the worlds of TV, film, and fantasy brought to life by a full symphony orchestra and stunning choir at The Bridgewater Hall.
This unmissable concert features some of the greatest movie music of all time, including The Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, Star Wars, Avatar, and loads more.
Daisy Jackson -
28th October 2022 
