As a child, I was always captivated by the mystique and history that surrounded old military sites. I vividly recall my first exploration of an abandoned airfield, a vast expanse of concrete and grass, its silent watchtowers and decaying hangars whispering tales of a bygone era. I used to take a stove and tea, eat and have a cup of tea while taking in the atmosphere. I recall a time when in Normandy, we had a fire on the beach and took in the surroundings. This fascination only grew with time, leading me to delve deeper into the history and stories of these forgotten places.
Virtual Investigations: Investigating disused military areas and historic battlefields
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a virtual investigation of a disused airfield (see my blog). It was an exhilarating experience, allowing me to combine my love for history with modern technology. The virtual tour was meticulously detailed, offering a rich tapestry of information about the airfield's operational days, its strategic importance, and the stories of those who served there. Researching the airfield's history afterwards enhanced the experience, making each discovered relic and each uncovered story all the more poignant.
Childhood Explorations: The Seeds of a Lifelong Passion
Living in the southwest of England, I often found myself drawn to the ex-RAF Harrowbeer on Dartmoor. This site, with its hauntingly beautiful landscape and remnants of wartime activity, became a playground and classroom. I spent countless hours researching its history, piecing together the narratives of the pilots and ground crew who once called it home. The sense of discovery and connection I felt with the past was profound and left an indelible mark on my soul.
Continuing the Journey
Now, I have the means and the opportunity to pursue this passion more vigorously. Investigating disused military areas is not just a hobby; it is a way to connect with history, to honour the memories of those who served, and to feel the lingering energy of these storied sites and to connect with my own self-awareness. Each investigation is a journey through time, offering insights into the human experience during times of conflict and change.
Haunted Ex-Military Areas in the UK
RAF East Kirkby, Lincolnshire
Once a bustling bomber command station, RAF East Kirkby is now home to the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre. Visitors and staff have reported numerous ghostly sightings and unexplained noises, believed to be the spirits of former airmen who lost their lives during World War II.
Brambletye House, Sussex
This Elizabethan mansion served as a military headquarters during the English Civil War. It is reputed to be haunted by soldiers who perished in battle, with frequent reports of apparitions and eerie sounds of marching.
RAF Metheringham, Lincolnshire
This former airfield is known for its spectral activity, with witnesses describing encounters with the ghost of a young airman who appears to be searching for his lost comrades. The site’s eerie atmosphere is a testament to its wartime past.
Scraesdon Fort, Cornwall
Built in the mid-19th century to protect against potential French invasion, Scraesdon Fort is now an abandoned shell. Paranormal investigators often visit the site, drawn by tales of ghostly soldiers and unexplained phenomena.
Dover Castle, Kent
While not disused, Dover Castle’s wartime tunnels, used during both World Wars, are infamous for paranormal activity. Spectral soldiers, disembodied voices, and cold spots are commonly reported by visitors exploring the underground labyrinth.
Famous Battlefields: Ghosts of Global Conflict
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA
The Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War, left an indelible mark on history. The battlefield is renowned for its ghostly sightings, including soldiers in Civil War uniforms and the famous ghost of Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the battle.
Normandy, France
The D-Day landings in Normandy were a pivotal moment in World War II. The beaches and surrounding areas, such as Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc, are believed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who lost their lives during the invasion. Visitors often report hearing the sounds of gunfire and voices on the wind.
Halbe Forest, Germany
The Battle of Halbe, one of the final clashes of World War II, saw fierce fighting between German and Soviet forces. The forest is said to be haunted by the spirits of fallen soldiers, with eerie sounds and ghostly apparitions frequently reported by those who visit the site.
The Somme, France
The Battle of the Somme during World War I was one of the bloodiest in history. The battlefield is a sombre place, where many visitors report hearing the sounds of battle, seeing ghostly soldiers, and feeling an overwhelming sense of sadness.
Ypres, Belgium
Ypres was the site of several major battles during World War I. The Menin Gate Memorial and the surrounding battlefields are reputed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who perished in the brutal trench warfare. Ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena are commonly reported.
Embracing the Energy of the Past
Investigating these haunted ex-military areas and historic battlefields is more than just a quest for ghost stories. It is about understanding the lives that were lived, the sacrifices that were made, and the echoes of history that continue to resonate. Each site holds a unique energy, a palpable sense of the past that invites us to explore, to learn, and to remember.
For me, this journey is deeply personal and profoundly fulfilling. It is a way to bridge the gap between past and present, to honour the memories of those who came before, and to satisfy my own curiosity about the world and its hidden histories. Whether through virtual tours or physical explorations, I am committed to uncovering the stories of disused military areas and keeping their legacy alive.
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