Just a short trip from London, Kingston near Lewes sits quietly in the scenic South Downs of East Sussex. This charming village, featured in the Domesday Book, boasts stunning countryside and two Sites of Special Scientific Interest: Lewes Brooks and Kingston Escarpment with Iford Hill. But behind the beauty lies a spooky secret.
The Ghost That Haunts Kingston
The Sussex village may look picture-perfect, but locals whisper about a deadly ghost named Nan Kemp. According to legend, Nan murdered her illegitimate baby in the 1600s and baked the infant into a pie for her husband. She was hanged and buried near Ashcombe Lane. For generations, daring teens have tried to conjure her spirit by running around her grave three times with their eyes closed—if the stories are true, Nan’s ghost will appear.
“Nan Kemp, and it is a time-honoured tradition for teens to scare themselves silly trying to awaken her by running around her grave three times with their eyes closed.”
The exact spot of Nan’s grave has become a mystery over the centuries, but nearby Nan Kemp’s Cottage marks the area, keeping the chilling tale alive.
Kingston: Haunting History Meets Dreamy Living
Despite its spooky folklore, Kingston is ranked among Sussex’s best places to live, recently named by Muddy Stilettos. Far from stuffy and posh, it’s actually a relaxed, happy village with a thriving community spirit.
- Village hub with a great community shop
- Top local pub, The Juggs
- Surrounded by fields for excellent countryside walks
Average home prices hover around £539,343 in this sought-after spot.
Culture and Countryside on Your Doorstep
Kingston is a hotspot for history and creativity lovers alike. Anne of Cleves’ former residence lies just next door, open for visitors to explore. Nearby Charleston farmhouse was a favourite hangout for artists like Vanessa Bell and Virginia Woolf. Woolf’s own 17th-century country retreat, Monk’s House, is also close by, now maintained by the National Trust.
Eat, Shop and Discover Nearby
Foodies are well served in Kingston and neighbouring Lewes. Grab a pint at The Juggs pub, or try fresh treats from Lovebrook Farm’s Community Farm Shop and Glitterbug Bakery. Over in Lewes, check out Ground for coffee, Flint Owl Bakery, or Caccia and Tails, famed for homemade pasta.
- Shopping highlights: Freight and Gorringe Auction House, Lewes Flea Market
- Boutiques like Closet and Botts Homestore, Baltic Trader, and the Fifteenth Century Bookshop
Kingston offers more than just scenic views—it’s a village steeped in chilling legends, rich history, and a welcoming community. Fancy a visit? Just be brave enough to seek out Nan Kemp’s ghost!
