Dusk was giving way to darkness as Des steered the trusty old VW through the gates and up the driveway to Blackwood Hall.
‘The place looks even spookier by night,’ he said, gazing at the centuries-old manor house.
‘That’s what I love about it,’ Carol enthused. ‘It’s steeped in history and dripping with atmosphere. From the moment we went in that day, I sensed this was where we’d finally get a result. Get the cases, will you, darling? I’ll bring the camera.’
In the brightly lit entrance hall, all was calm. The middle-aged woman on reception looked up as they approached, smiling brightly.
‘Mr and Mrs Craig, welcome back.’
‘Thank you, Mel,’ Carol said, resting her elbows on the desk.
‘I was just saying how spooky this old pile looks by moonlight,’ Des commented, setting the cases down on the black and white tiled floor.
‘We do have our fair share of bumps in the night,’ Mel agreed, with a grin. ‘We’re not supposed to mention this, but some reckon Florence Nightingale walks the long corridor. Personally I’d be happier to see George Clooney drifting past my four-poster!’
‘Hear that, Des?’ Carol breathed. ‘Florence Nightingale! It makes sense, though. I did a bit of research after our first visit and Blackwood Hall was used as a convalescent home after the Crimean War.’
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest