Did you know this old house in Carshalton is haunted? Its spooky past featured in a famous book written over 100 years ago. So next time you’re in West Street, don’t look up at the windows, as you may find a ghost looking back at you. Let’s uncover more…
Step out of Carshalton train station and close by at 80 West Street, you’ll find the rather charming Rose Cottage. This is a very old home with an intriguing history. It was built circa 1675, during the reign of King Charles II (1630 – 1685). In the garden remains an ancient well.
Alongside Rose Cottage to the right is thought to be the location of the old stables, now converted into private homes (numbers 72 to 78).
In 1809 the house was converted by an architect who possibly lived at the property. He most likely extended the left and right side of Rose Cottage as seen from the front.
The house is said to have appeared in the Haunted Houses of London, by Elliott O’Donnell, a book published in 1909. Rose Cottage is reportedly haunted by a young woman who stands by the fireplace. It’s not known if the apparition has been seen since. Louise Gasperelli, who helped compile this post, lived at the house during the 1970s/80s and said “there have been ghostly experiences, but not the one talked about in the book, but a presence in certain rooms.” Louise’s brother and sister are pictured below.
In 1860 parts of its extensive grounds were given up for the building of Carshalton train station.
The same family have lived at this home since 1974, also the year it became Grade II listed.
© Words and collating research, Secret Carshalton. With thanks to Louise Gasparelli, who grew up at this house, and allowed me to share her old photos. The haunted house book is out of print and I’ve been unable to find a copy to verify the exact write-up. We aim to get the details (and grammar!) as accurate as possible, but reserve the right to update mistakes. Please leave your feedback below, to keep all comments (if any) across social media in one place…
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how amazing is the history of these houses in West St. Right on my doorstep,(almost) and i never knew all this history. so interesting. next time i go there I will take more interest . thank you.
Fascinating. I had no idea this house was so old.
As ever, a very interesting article. I must have passed this house a thousand times ant not realised its great age and history.
Love that old house . My grandparents owned and lived there when I was growing up.I am eighty nine years old now .