Thornewood Castle is known for its ghost stories and claims of paranormal activity. Especially after being featured in the Stephen King miniseries “Rose Red.” The current owners do not believe it is haunted. Many reports of haunting emerged only after the castle gained fame in horror culture.
Overview of Thornewood Castle
Thornewood Castle, located in Lakewood, Washington, is a historic estate built between 1909 and 1911. It features English Gothic architecture and is known for its unique construction, using bricks from a 15th-century English manor. The castle spans 27,000 square feet and includes 54 rooms. That makes it one of the few genuine castles in the United States.
Claims of Haunting:
Many visitors and staff have reported paranormal experiences at Thornewood Castle. Common claims include:
- Apparitions: Guests have reported seeing ghostly figures and experiencing strange lights.
- Unexplained Sounds: Some have heard noises like footsteps or creaking floors when no one else is present.
- Scent of Tobacco: A few visitors have noted the smell of cigars or tobacco in certain areas.
Skepticism and Current Ownership
Despite these claims, the current owners of Thornewood Castle do not believe it is haunted. They have stated, that many of the ghost stories emerged after the castle was featured in the Stephen King miniseries “Rose Red”.
Visiting Thornewood Castle
Thornewood Castle operates as a bed and breakfast and is available for events. However, it is a private residence, and public access is limited to overnight guests or special events.
In summary, while many people report ghostly encounters, the owners maintain a skeptical view of the castle’s haunted reputation.