The Haymarket Theatre is Basingstoke's oldest theatre at the top of this historic town.  Many productions, both amateur and professional have been held here over the years. The building started out in 1864 as the town's Corn Exchange which opened a year later.  It cost £4000 and included three shops.  It was then purchased by the Basingstoke Corporation and in 1880 was a location used for other purposes, including becoming a public meeting place.  The Fire Brigade also kept a steam engine in the basement.

In 1900 the first moving pictures were shown and 10 years later it was converted into a roller skating rink.  In 1913 George Casey took over the lease and opened the building as a cinema house.  It was later renamed as The Grand Exchange Cinema. May 16 1925 saw the building gutted by a fire but eventually restored and used again as a cinema.  During the second world war Stockley Theatres Ltd opened up there.  Among those who performed here were Frankie Howard, Norman Wisdom, Gert & Daisy and Tommy Handley. In 1951 the building was given it's current name, Haymarket Theatre.  From here it was almost completely staffed by volunteers and amateur companies.  These volunteers are known these days as 'Haymakers'.

Basingstoke has a long and interesting history, ranging right back to prehistoric times.  There are a few infamous incidents in it's history, with the Basingstoke witch trials and an accidental burying in 1764 of a Mrs. Blunden, who is said to still haunt the Holy Ghost ruin to this day.  The witch trials may be of some interest to this investigation as the area where these would have been carried out would have been just around the corner from the where the theatre is today.  In 1657, a woman named Goody Turner was put on trial as a witch, accused of killing a young boy and bewitching an unsuspecting girl.  She was found guilty, however there are no records to show what sentence was given.

In regards to haunting, almost every theatre in the country will claim to have a resident ghost.  The Haymarket is no different.  There have been a number of strange sightings throughout the years, the most regular of a lady that likes to sit in the bottom right of the auditorium. This will be our third investigation here (click here for reports), will we be able to connect with the lady and more energies on our return investigation of The Haymarket Theatre?

This event includes: Exclusive Access to theatre auditorium, backstage and rehearsal rooms*. Supper Buffet & Refreshments Psychic Workshop Demonstration and full use of Ghost Hunting Equipment Ghost Walk with Medium Vigils & Experiments Discussion of findings *Certain areas may be out-of-bounds, will be advised on the night...

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