The Golden Fleece in York has an unmistakable and unique atmosphere and is a joy to investigate. Perhaps it’s the mere thought of the numbers of people and different time periods the place has known over 500 years of occupation that triggers the mind into believing that a ghost may be lurking around every corner. Having noted its creepy ambience it is of course the serious job of every investigation team to separate the setting (however suggestive of ghosts) from the evidential reality of what just may be paranormal activity which defies all rational explanation and we certainly did have some interesting phenomena during our time exploring the place.

One group experienced two unexplained flashes of light whilst investigating the Shambles room and footsteps were heard by another group which were described as moving around them. When in St.Katherine’s room spikes were noted on the K2 EMF meter with no logical reason being found to account for the anomaly. Distinct knocking occurred on request in this area and in the downstairs back bar. A few people were also thrilled when they heard what was described as a woman’s moan or whining sound. During a combined vigil in the Function room one lady astonished her friends and family by becoming suddenly emotional and running from the room in tears. They all said that she was never known to cry and was well recognised as one to always be in strict control of her emotions. She went onto to describe that after laughing and joking earlier she was suddenly overcome by the most overwhelming sense of sadness leaving her dumbfounded as to what had triggered the bizarre episode. Thankfully she soon returned to her normal jovial self but what interested the team was that one of the ghosts reported in that same room is that of a woman who runs out screaming in tears as though terrified and fleeing from something terrible. So was this tragic soul’s panic and emotion actually being transferred onto one of our ghost hunters?

Whilst in our own experience the Golden Fleece has never quite lived up to its reputation as the most haunted building in York it has always shown to be worthy of investigation. The team are really excited however to pitch it against another North Yorkshire drinking den later this month when we conduct our first-time ghost hunt at the Busby Stoop Inn - which also competes for the same title. We will keep you all posted as to what we discover during our night there on Friday 13th August (!) or better still why not come along and take part. Just a few places left now!