About

The Groundlings Theatre hosts Spirit Chasers Paranormal UK, as they explore the 240-year-old building - said to be one of the most haunted in Portsmouth and believed to be residence to up to nine ghosts!

Being a theatre, the Groundlings building certainly has a story or two to tell - and not just what's on stage! It has even featured on an episode of the hit TV Show 'Help! My house is haunted' and played host to a variety of paranormal investigation groups.

Built in 1784 by the Beneficial Society, what is now the Groundlings Theatre was originally one of the first free schools for boys (it later added girls in 1835). The school was based downstairs while upstairs was used by the Beneficial Society - which included many notable members - for meetings, theatre and concerts.

In 1812, Elizabeth Dickens went into labour with Charles Dickens whilst attending a dance in the building. Henry Ayres, who became Premier of South Australia and after whom Ayres Rock was originally named, was also a pupil. It operated as a school until 1962, at which point it became a training centre, until finally transforming into a theatre in 2010.

These ghost tours will be guided by experienced paranormal investigators, Spirit Chasers Paranormal UK, who have conducted many investigations in the building. They will include the use of high-tech and traditional tools to capture any paranormal activity, as well as unlimited tea and coffee

All money goes to the support Groundlings Theatre Trust.

Advanced booking is essential for this event. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.