Behind the unassuming facade of this 1950s semi-detached council house lies what is widely regarded as the home of Europe’s most violent poltergeist. Known globally as the site of the "Black Monk of Pontefract," 30 East Drive is not a conventional hotel but a "haunted sleepover" destination. It offers no luxury spa or fine dining—instead, it provides a raw, terrifying encounter with the supernatural that has forced previous residents to flee and continues to challenge even the most seasoned paranormal investigators.
The Haunting of Fred
The activity at 30 East Drive began in August 1966 when the Pritchard family—Joe, Jean, and their children Phillip (15) and Diane (12)—moved in. What started as "chalky dust" falling from mid-air and inexplicable puddles of water soon escalated into terrifying physical violence. The entity, whom the family nicknamed "Fred" to normalize the horror, and who the press dubbed "Mr. Nobody," became famous for its malevolence. Witnesses reported: Physical Attacks: The most famous incident involved Diane being dragged up the stairs by her hair by an unseen force, leaving visible finger marks on her throat. The Black Monk: A 7-foot tall figure in long, dark monastic robes has been seen standing over beds and lurking in corners. Legend suggests he was a 16th-century Cluniac monk hanged for a heinous crime on the very land where the house now stands. Poltergeist Play: Fred is known for his penchant for marbles and keys—often manifesting them out of thin air or hiding them in impossible places, such as inside non-functional vacuum cleaners. Mischievous Response: During an attempted exorcism, the entity reportedly "conducted" the family’s hymns using a pair of floating fur gloves.
Brief History
The house itself is a standard post-war build on the Chequerfield Estate, but its location is steeped in darker history. Local lore suggests the property sits near the site of an ancient gallows where a monk from the nearby Pontefract Priory was executed. The haunting gained international fame following the publication of Colin Wilson's book Poltergeist and was later the inspiration for the 2012 horror film When the Lights Went Out. The property was eventually purchased by the film's producer, Bill Bungay, who kept the interior in its original 1960s/70s decor to preserve the atmosphere of the original haunting. What to Expect 30 East Drive is a destination for the truly brave. Unlike most haunted locations, the owners do not provide guest insurance, and visitors are required to sign a waiver before entering. Atmosphere: Stepping inside is like traveling back to 1966. The wallpaper, furniture, and even the smell evoke the era of the Pritchards’ ordeal. Activity: Guests frequently report foul smells (like rotting meat), disembodied voices, heavy objects being thrown, and sudden drops in temperature. The Coal House: A small cupboard under the stairs that is often cited as the most oppressive and active area of the house.
Visiting Information
Because of the intense nature of the activity, the house is only open for pre-booked paranormal investigations and overnight stays. It is strictly a "self-catering" experience—if you can stomach eating there—and visitors are warned never to attempt an exorcism or show disrespect to "Fred," as his outbursts are often triggered by such challenges.