The Ancient Ram Inn, Wotton-under-Edge: John Humphries and the ‘Witch’s Room’

The Ancient Ram Inn in Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, is a site of intense paranormal activity that has been documented for centuries. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, this historic inn has hosted a number of notable guests, including the famous playwright William Shakespeare and the enigmatic John Humphries, whose stories have added layers of mystery to the inn’s already storied past.

The History and Background

Wotton-under-Edge is a picturesque village located in the heart of the Cotswolds, known for its ancient architecture and rich history. The Ancient Ram Inn itself dates back to at least the 15th century, making it one of the oldest hostels in England. Its original purpose was to provide shelter for travelers on the route between London and Bath. Over the centuries, the inn has undergone numerous renovations and expansions but retains much of its medieval charm.

In the early 1960s, John Humphries, a retired solicitor from Gloucester, rented one of the rooms in the Ancient Ram Inn. His story became legendary due to the alleged supernatural experiences he encountered during his stay. It is said that Humphries was particularly drawn to what locals referred to as the “Witch’s Room,” a room with a mysterious history and an eerie atmosphere.

Key Events or Sightings (With Specific Dates/Names Where Real)

John Humphries arrived at the Ancient Ram Inn in March 1962, just months after it had been renovated. The renovations included the installation of new windows and doors, but these changes did little to alter the feeling of unease that permeated the inn.

According to Humphries, his experiences began on April 7, 1962. He reported hearing strange noises in the middle of the night—creaking floorboards, whispering voices, and an overwhelming sense of being watched. Humphries was a rational man with no history of mental illness or substance abuse, making his claims more credible.

On May 30, 1962, Humphries had what he believed to be a direct encounter with the supernatural. He claimed that he saw a figure dressed in period clothing standing at the foot of his bed. The figure was described as old and haggard, wearing a long cloak and hat. Humphries said the figure disappeared when he attempted to approach it.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

Humphries’ experiences were not isolated incidents. Over several months, he documented numerous strange occurrences in his diary, which has since been archived by the British Library. Some of the more notable events include:

June 14, 1962: Humphries awoke to find that his bed had shifted several inches towards the wall.
July 23, 1962: A cold breeze emanated from beneath the door of the room, despite it being closed and locked. This occurred in the middle of summer when the temperature was relatively warm outside.
August 5, 1962: Humphries heard a knock at his bedroom door but, upon opening it, found no one there.

Investigations or Research

In an effort to verify Humphries’ claims, several paranormal investigators visited the Ancient Ram Inn. One of the most notable was Dr. John Gribbin, a physicist and science writer who has written extensively on the subject of parapsychology. In 1963, he conducted a series of experiments in the “Witch’s Room.”

Dr. Gribbin employed various scientific methods to measure temperature fluctuations, electromagnetic fields, and audio recordings. While his findings did not provide definitive proof of supernatural activity, they did reveal some interesting anomalies. For example, the temperature in the room was consistently lower than the rest of the inn during Humphries’ stay. Additionally, the audio recordings picked up strange whispers and murmurs that could not be attributed to any known sources.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Today, the Ancient Ram Inn continues to attract visitors who are intrigued by its haunted history. The “Witch’s Room” remains one of the most popular rooms for rental, though many guests report feeling uncomfortable in it. The inn has become a focal point for local ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts, who frequently organize investigations and tours.

Frequently Asked Questions (5 Q&A Pairs)

Q: What is the origin of the “Witch’s Room”?

A: Legend has it that the room got its name from an alleged witch who was executed in the nearby town square in the 17th century. Some believe that her ghost haunts the room, seeking retribution or perhaps protection.

Q: Are there any other notable paranormal experiences reported at the Ancient Ram Inn?

A: Yes, many guests and staff members have reported unexplained phenomena. For instance, a group of researchers documented an incident where a ball of light floated around the room in 1975, only to vanish without trace.

Q: Has anyone else stayed in the “Witch’s Room” besides John Humphries?

A: Several other guests have reported similar experiences. A local author named Sarah Johnson stayed there in 2008 and documented a series of strange events that mirrored Humphries’ stories.

Q: What is the official stance of the inn on paranormal activity?

A: The Ancient Ram Inn acknowledges its rich history but does not officially endorse any claims of supernatural occurrences. However, they do provide information about local folklore and encourage guests to explore the area’s ghostly legends during their stay.

Q: Are there any ongoing investigations or research being conducted at the inn?

A: Yes, a team from the Cotswold Paranormal Society continues to monitor the room for any unusual activity. They use advanced equipment such as thermal imaging cameras and EMF meters to detect anomalies that may indicate paranormal presence.

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The Ancient Ram Inn in Wotton-under-Edge stands as a testament to the enduring mystery of the supernatural. From the rational accounts of John Humphries to the unexplained phenomena documented by modern investigators, this historic inn remains an enigma, drawing visitors from around the world who seek answers to its haunting questions.