Most Haunted Location - Derby Gaol

Derby is the epicentre of England and it is probably the most haunted city in England. Every part of Derby has a ghost story and none moreso than Derby Gaol.

Built in 1756, Derby Gaol was constructed after the original Gaol built alongside the Markeaton Brook was deemed a foul stinking place which managed to survive for over 200 years. The prisoners in the Gaol during that period mainly died from disease so a more substantial structure was erected. Prisoners began arriving in the new Gaol in 1756. It was originally designed to hold a maximum of 29 prisoners ranging from Poor Debtors to Execution Victims. It soon became very apparent that the accommodation was going to be insufficient and between 1730 and 1832 there were in excess of 260 crimes which carried the death penalty, known as the 'Bloody Code'. These crimes were very innocuous and you were executed for as little as being seen in the street with soot on your face to crimes such as murder and treason.

When it was deemed necessary the Justices would enforce their punishment laws by making examples of prisoners and some such as the men from Pentrich were hung drawn and quartered. It was a harsh and cruel era that has left its mark in more ways than one.

The hauntings of Derby Gaol go far outside the prison walls. The screams of the executed prisoners can still be heard echoing across the river on the 24th July which is the anniversary of one of Derby's infamous dates in history. The Ghosts are in abundance at the Gaol. However, what is really interesting is the atmosphere of the Gaol and what happens to objects and people when they visit the building. Richard Felix himself claims to have seen a ghost in the form of a mist creeping across the room. Other people have claimed to have been touched by invisible hands. Guests have been known to burst into tears for no apparent reason whilst holding vigils in the condemned cell.

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