Merton College, one of Oxford’s oldest and most prestigious colleges, is not only rich in academic history but also steeped in ghostly legends. The college, with its medieval architecture and ancient traditions, has long been rumored to be haunted by a number of spirits, each with its own story.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories of Francis Windebank, the warden, the ghostly choir, and the White Lady add an intriguing layer of mystery to this venerable Oxford institution. For those who walk the college’s grounds at night, these spirits may just make their presence felt, continuing to haunt Merton College as they have for centuries.
The Ghost of Francis Windebank
One of the most famous spirits said to haunt Merton College is that of Francis Windebank, a Royalist soldier who was executed during the English Civil War. According to the legend, Windebank was a young officer in the service of King Charles I. In 1645, during the Civil War, he was captured by Parliamentarian forces and sentenced to death. Despite being granted a temporary reprieve, the pardon arrived too late, and he was executed by firing squad.
Windebank’s execution took place just outside the walls of Merton College, and it is said that his restless spirit haunts the college grounds, particularly near the Merton College Chapel and Fellows’ Garden. Students and staff have reported seeing a ghostly figure dressed in 17th-century attire, wandering the grounds in a state of despair. The figure is often described as pale and solemn, his presence evoking a sense of sadness and regret.
The Warden’s Ghost
Another ghostly tale from Merton College involves the spirit of a former warden. The identity of this warden is often debated, but the most commonly mentioned figure is Henry Savile, who served as Warden from 1585 to 1622. Savile was known for his strictness and dedication to the college, and it is said that even in death, he couldn’t leave Merton behind.
The ghost of the warden is reputed to haunt the Mob Quad, one of the oldest quadrangles in Oxford. Some say they have seen a shadowy figure moving through the Mob Quad at night, particularly near the Warden’s Lodgings. Others have reported hearing the sound of footsteps or doors closing by themselves, attributed to the warden continuing his watchful oversight of the college.
The Ghostly Choir
Merton College Chapel, with its beautiful stained glass windows and ancient stone walls, is another place where ghostly phenomena have been reported. There are stories of ghostly singing emanating from the chapel, particularly late at night when the building is empty. Some say they have heard the ethereal sounds of a choir, as though spirits from the past have returned to sing once more.
These mysterious sounds are said to be most common on quiet, misty nights, when the college grounds take on an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The source of the singing remains unexplained, but it adds to the eerie charm of Merton College’s haunted reputation.
The Mysterious White Lady
A less well-known but still intriguing ghost story from Merton College involves the White Lady, a spectral figure said to appear in the college’s gardens. The origins of this ghost are unclear, but she is often described as a woman dressed in white, gliding silently through the gardens at dusk. Her appearances are rare, but those who claim to have seen her describe an overwhelming sense of peace and melancholy.
The White Lady is believed to be the spirit of a woman who was deeply connected to the college, either through a tragic love affair or as a benefactor whose life ended in sorrow. Her ghost is said to be one of the more serene presences at Merton, quietly watching over the college she loved.
Visiting Merton College Today
Visiting Merton College in Oxford is a rewarding experience, whether you’re interested in its rich history, stunning architecture, or the ghostly tales that add to its mystique.
Merton College is located on Merton Street, a quiet, picturesque street in the heart of Oxford, just a short walk from the city’s main attractions like the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library. Merton College is generally open to the public at certain times, though these hours can vary depending on the time of year, academic schedule, and special events. It’s always a good idea to check the college’s official website for the most up-to-date visiting hours before planning your visit.
