Built on the site of the earlier George and Dragon in the late nineteenth century, this Grade II listed building has undergone renovation in recent years, but still retains its original gin palace character.
The earliest report of a ghost at the Bakers Vaults that I have found dates to the 1980s, when Colin Rowland was landlord. Speaking to the Stockport Advertiser, Colin described a spirit believed to be around 300 years old, which was said to make its presence known in the upstairs rooms. The ghost was thought to have a favourite seat, a chair near the lounge, which other, more corporeal customers tended to avoid.
Further stories emerged during the 1990s, this time involving a more tangible presence. Several members of staff reported an unsettling experience in the pub’s cellar while changing barrels. They would first feel a sudden chill, followed by the sensation of being watched. When they turned around, a grey, featureless figure was said to be standing nearby, remaining still for several moments before turning towards a wall and disappearing into it.
Although the figure never caused any physical harm, staff were reluctant to go down into the cellars alone.
This entry features an extract from my forthcoming book, Ghosts of Stockport.
