Kings Lynn, a historic town on the east coast of England, is famous for its picturesque streets, maritime history, and charming market square. But beneath the town’s quaint exterior lies a darker past. In the 16th century, Kings Lynn’s Market Place was the site of public executions for those of accused witchcraft. One of the most infamous executions was that of Margaret Read in 1590, whose death by burning at the stake has left a chilling legacy that still haunts the town today.
The Execution of Margaret Read
During the witch hunts of the late 16th century, accusations of witchcraft spread like wildfire across Europe. Kings Lynn, like many towns at the time, became embroiled in these trials. In 1590, Margaret Read was accused of witchcraft and sentenced to a brutal death by burning at the stake in the Market Place.
What makes Margaret Read’s execution particularly haunting, however, is the legend that has surrounded it. As the flames engulfed her, it’s said that Margaret’s heart burst from her chest, flying across the square and striking the wall opposite.
This legendary moment left a permanent mark on the stone, which is still be visible today. Over the centuries, this eerie story has captivated the imagination of both locals and tourists, making the Market Place a notorious spot in Kings Lynn’s dark history.
The Haunted Wall: Kings Lynn’s Morbid Tourist Attraction
Today, the wall where Margaret Read’s heart allegedly struck has become one of Kings Lynn’s most macabre tourist attractions. Visitors come from near and far to see the haunting mark that remains on the stone. Whether you believe the legend or not, the mark serves as a chilling reminder of the town’s gruesome past.
But the story doesn’t end with the heart mark. Over the years, Kings Lynn’s Market Place has gained a reputation for being one of the most haunted locations in the area. Paranormal investigators and ghost hunters frequently visit the site, drawn by reports of strange and unexplained phenomena.
Some visitors have experienced eerie sensations, such as the feeling of being poked or scratched to the point of bleeding by an unseen hand. Others have reported hearing disembodied footsteps echoing through the square, while some claim to have heard the sound of hysterical laughter coming from nowhere.
Paranormal Investigations and Ghost Tours in Kings Lynn
For those intrigued by the supernatural, Kings Lynn offers a variety of ghost tours and paranormal investigations. These tours take visitors through the historic streets of the town, with a particular focus on the eerie history of the Market Place.
Tour guides recount the chilling tales of accused witches, including the tragic death of Margaret Read, and share firsthand accounts of paranormal experiences that have been reported over the years.
Many paranormal investigators have also flocked to Kings Lynn, hoping to uncover the mysteries behind the strange phenomena. With its rich history of witchcraft trials and executions, it’s no wonder that Kings Lynn’s Market Place has become a hotspot for ghost hunters and those seeking to experience the supernatural.
