I was locked in the prison cell at a historic house in Sandwell that legend says is haunted by 'Eleanor and the monk'
Ghost stories have never really appealed to me, but I suppose it is easy to say that from the comfort of your own home.
That view was tested though on my recent trip to a Heritage Open Day at Haden Hill House in Cradley Heath for a guided tour of the grounds, which included a rare trip down into the cellars beneath the Old Hall, and an underground passage that is said to be haunted by the spirits of a young miscreant monk who, legend states, was buried alive in the grounds and his lover, Eleanor, who died of a broken heart.
Tucked away between residential lanes in Cradley Health is the entrance to Haden Hill House, next to Haden Hill Cricket Club and Leisure Centre.
Located right next to Haden Hill House is the Haden Old Hall, also known as the Tudor Hall, and this is the building our tour guide Stuart Roberts would focus on.
Outside we were told about how, in the early 20th century, a fallen tree damaged the front of the house and forced then-owner George Alfred Haden Haden-Best to redesign the entrance.
And what a good job he did. The house is impressive to look at, and while it has required maintenance there is still a feeling of looking into the past when stood outside.
That feeling continues inside, once you enter through the low doorways without banging your head.
