I came across this fascinating story about Cliffe House, a historic building in Dronfield, on a local history group on Facebook. It’s said to be haunted, and the tales are as spooky as they are intriguing.

Apparently, the house was once owned by a white witch, which adds a whole new layer of mystery to the stories. People have reported feeling a presence, hearing strange noises, and even seeing a ghostly figure.The house has a long and interesting history, having been owned by various families over the years. It’s now a wine bar, but the past still lingers within its walls. It’s a great reminder that even in the heart of a bustling town, there are places where history and the supernatural can intertwine.

The house was built in 1760 and has witnessed centuries of life flow through its grand walls. It was once owned by prominent figures like Reverend David Clarke and surgeon Henry May, and later by Miss Charlotte Ward, a woman known for her strict demeanour. After her niece’s mysterious passing within the house walls, Miss Ward sealed a bedroom, preserving it untouched for years.

Surewheat Ltd. acquired the property in a later era, and the house had fallen into disrepair. Restoration efforts brought back some of its former glory, but whispers of the past remained.

When the sealed bedroom was finally opened, the team discovered a chilling scene. Dresses still hung from the wardrobe doors, and the entire room was covered in dust and spiders’ webs. The items were so fragile that they crumbled at a touch. This eerie discovery only added to the house’s reputation as a haunted location.

Customers of the current establishment, Chaplins Wine Bar, have reported unusual experiences. A presence lingers in the upstairs restroom, while the sounds of a man with a peg leg traversing the floorboards echo from above. Local lore suggests this might be the spirit of a former patient, forever bound to his doctor.

Beyond the spectral residents, a sense of history permeates the place. A bygone era whispers through the stylish Victorian décor, and the sixty-foot wishing well in the extensive garden adds a touch of whimsy.

One wonders if a spectral figure, perhaps a lady in white, observes the bustling patrons from a window overlooking the staircase. Cliffe House, transformed into a lively venue, retains a connection to its intriguing past, offering a glimpse into a bygone era alongside a welcoming atmosphere.