Post by Graveyardbride on Feb 25, 2015 11:37:34 GMT -5
For Sale: Castle Haunted by Murdered Cardinal
According to legend, the ghost of the cardinal can still be heard at night as he parades around Ethie, hindered by his gouty leg, which makes a thumping sound as he drags it behind him. There are other spooky elements to the majestic castle, as well, including a secret staircase and a walled garden. Amenities include tennis courts and an outdoor swimming pool.
Ethie Castle, situated approximately three miles north of Arbroath, a fishing town in Angus Scotland, was built in the 14th Century by the Abbot and monks of Arbroath Abbey. After passing through the de Maxwell family, the lands reverted to the Abbey and the castle became the country residence of David Beaton, Abbot of Arbroath, who later became Cardinal and Chancellor of Scotland. In 1530, he remodeled the castle around a courtyard in order to entertain King James V. In 1545, he arranged for the arrest, trial and execution by burning of Protestant preacher George Wishart. This cruel act ultimately led to his demise for just one year later, Protestant nobles sought revenge. In 1546, a group, which included Fife laird John Leslie of Parkhill, managed to get to Beaton after killing his porter. The cardinal was murdered by the angry men and his corpse mutilated and hung out a window for all to see. Shortly thereafter, it was rumored Beaton's ghost seen wandering around Ethie, complete with the dragging noise. Most sightings have taken place on the narrow staircase leading to a secret doorway in his old bedroom. The small chapel, as well as the Cardinal's sitting room – complete with a secret staircase to the Great Hall above – remain a part of the house today.
But the cardinal isn’t the only ghost haunting the castle. Guests at Ethie have also reported hearing cries of a child at night, followed by the sound of a wheeled toy being pulled across the floor. Legend has it that a secret room was discovered by a new governess of the castle after she was repeatedly awakened in the night by the phantom cries of a child. After breaking into the walled room, the woman discovered the skeleton of a child lying on the floor beside the remains of a little wooden cart.
Although known primarily for its supernatural activity, Ethie has also played host to many notables over the years. In 1665, it was purchased by the Earls of Northesk and is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Castle of Knockwhinnock in Sir Walter Scott's novel, The Antiquary, which he wrote while staying at Ethie. The castle was later restored by Alistair Forsyth.
Currently, Ethie Castle is being advertised by a Savills estate agent, who describes it as a “most imposing and historic castle,” but makes no mention of supernatural activity. According ot the brochure: “In recent years, the castle has been carefully restored. It has evolved over the centuries from its ancient beginnings and, with its wings and towers, forms a magnificent residence of great character. Architecturally, the castle contains many fine features including four turnpike staircases, a balustraded tower, turrets and crow stepped gables. The barrel vaulted rooms, together with paneled rooms, decorative plaster work, fireplaces and window shutters all provide an insight into the history associated with the castle.”
Ethie Castle has eight reception rooms, 10 bedrooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a walled garden, pavilion, tennis court and greenhouse. There are also paddocks and a two-bedroom annex. All this can be yours for a mere £1.650 ($2.56 million). Baronial titles are also available for purchase.
Source: Katie Amey, The Daily Mail, February 15, 2015, and Rightmove.
