Fort Widley: The Lantern Man Returns
- Dr Iain M Lightfoot
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Our recent investigation at Fort Widley in Portsmouth, was another fascinating dive into the world of the Paranormal and the unknown. Widley had a mix of cold tunnels, curious voices, and a few unexplained moments that make this location one we will always want to return to.
The Lantern Man
We focused much of our attention on the legend of the Lantern Man, who is said to be a spirit who still patrols the long, echoing passageways of the fort. The theory goes that he continues his rounds as if still on duty, lantern in hand, walking the same routes he once did in life.
Although frustratingly I missed it, Barry once again saw the lantern’s faint glow moving around the central chamber and then vanished, is if proceeding down the tunnels. Whether it’s a trick of the light or genuine paranormal activity, it’s hard to ignore the consistency of these sightings.
EVPs that Stand Out
What stood out most during our analysis were the EVPs Barry captured. One clear and unmistakable voice called out, “Can you hear me?” An extraordinary moment that seemed like a genuine attempt at communication from the spirit to us. Could this have been the Lantern Man himself? Or perhaps another spirit seeking attention in the dark?
We also conducted a small experiment, asking aloud, “Can you blank out the UV light?” The response we caught was a distinct “No.” Simple, direct, and yet strangely conversational. These are the kinds of responses that make all the hours of quiet waiting worth while.
Other Interactions with Spirits
During one of the times that we left the central chamber, we witnessed some spirit ball interaction. What was most surprising was the way in which it mirrored what we experienced during our last visit. It started strong, with clear reactions, and then simply… stopped.
During the conversation, Barry asked if there might have been a clearing of energy within the tunnels. Could this be linked to the ongoing work happening on site, or were the spirits perhaps being asked to move on? The response came as yes...
The weather was cold and damp, and we experienced very few orbs, which made the few that did appear all the more interesting. Could an orb be 'fuelled' by the thermal energy from the surrounding air? A hypothesis which at the moment seems to be working out.
Debunking...
A glowing light at the far end of one tunnel initially caught my attention and I was very excited, but, after some checking, we were able to debunk it as light coming from the main doorway from the barrack block to the connecting tunnel. Although clearly disappointing, actually I believe that this is proof that we always balance curiosity with critical thinking.
As always, a huge thank you to Paula and the team at DS Haunts for another brilliantly run investigation. The professionalism, organisation, and care they put into every event make their investigations the best around. If you ever get the chance to join one, do it as they’re absolutely first rate.
Until next time, Fort Widley! We’ll be back soon to see if the Lantern Man appears again...
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