About the event:
Nestled in Gainsborough, England, the Old Nick Theatre carries an eerie charm. Though it now serves as a quaint theatre and museum, its walls once echoed with the stern voices of justice—it was originally a court and police station, designated as a Grade II listed building. But the past hasn’t entirely let go. Whispers of lingering spirits suggest that the building’s history still haunts its halls.
Originally built in 1850 as a Magistrates’ Court and police station, this Grade II listed building now hosts thrilling performances in its former courtroom. Judges’ chambers have transformed into dressing rooms, but deep beneath the stage, the original cells remain untouched. After its closure in 1972, the site was revived in 1978 by Gainsborough Theatre Company Patron Douglas Parkinson, who opened its doors to passionate performers. Today, the Old Nick Theatre invites you to experience live drama in one of England’s most atmospheric venues.
A Haunting Legacy Reborn: The Old Nick Theatre & Police Museum
After the passing of Mr. Douglas Parkinson in 1992, the historic Old Nick building was generously bequeathed to the Gainsborough Theatre Group. That’s when the real transformation began. Decades of clutter were cleared, and the building underwent extensive renovations—even during the challenges of the COVID lockdowns. Today, it stands proudly as a unique 55-seat theatre with a chilling secret beneath its stage: a fully restored Victorian-era police museum.
Step Into the Shadows of History
Thanks to tireless dedication, the original police station rooms have been meticulously returned to their 19th-century splendor. Visitors can explore authentic cell blocks, complete with hard wooden slab beds—just as prisoners once endured. Both men and women were held here, awaiting their fate in the very courtroom that now hosts live performances. The exercise yard has also been revived, offering a glimpse into the daily routines of those who once walked its confines.
But when night falls, the atmosphere shifts. The corridors grow colder, the cells darker, and the silence heavier. Paranormal investigators from across the country have braved overnight ghost hunts—only to flee in terror, swearing never to return. Are you brave enough to face the spirits that still linger?
Between 1860 and 1948, the Old Nick Theatre in Gainsborough witnessed 25 documented deaths—two of them tragic suicides. Today, the building may host live performances, but its dark past still lingers in every shadowed corner.
This is no ordinary overnight stay. It’s a challenge for the bravest paranormal investigators. Visitors have reported chilling encounters: menacing shadows drifting through the underground corridors, unseen hands brushing against skin, and sudden shoves on the staircase. Poltergeist activity is rampant—objects fly across rooms, vanish without explanation, and reappear in places they shouldn’t be.
The most unnerving sightings? Faceless apparitions of long-dead policemen and convicts silently roaming the halls. Doors slam shut and lock from the inside, trapping guests in pitch-black rooms with no way out.
Think you can handle it? Book your overnight ghost hunt at the Old Nick Theatre—if you dare to face what lies beneath.
After the ghost hunt concludes at 3AM, you can choose to depart or stay on for the optional sleepover. Those staying will have the freedom to rest or continue investigating at their own pace until 9:00 AM.
YOUR EVENT INCLUDES:
This exciting event is a real ghost hunt experience. Different to ghost walks or a history tour
Knowledgeable, experienced, and friendly and hosts
We do not condone any tricks or faking of activity
Ghost hunting with us is in small groups, we do not believe in overcrowding
Spiritual white light protection and grounding before you start
We can offer an introduction to ghost hunting techniques and equipment for all our first-time ghost hunters
Traditional Victorian, and scientific experiments for you to try throughout the night (table tipping, Ouija Boards, Glass divination and Scribing)
Free time to investigate on your own
Lone vigils in the dark for the bravest or experienced ghost hunters
Full hands-on use with the equipment
Free Refreshments during the night (Includes hot and cold drinks and snacks)
A group discussion of findings at the end sharing experiences with those in other groups who may have missed the happenings you encountered
PARKING ON THE NIGHT
There is no onsite parking. There is free on street parking available on the roads surrounding Abington Park.
PLEASE NOTE BEFORE BOOKING YOUR GHOST HUNT
OPTIONAL SLEEPOVER: This event includes an optional sleepover once the Ghost Hunt has ended. You must bring a sleeping bag/camping bed/air mattress for the night as bedding isn't provided.
This location is not suitable for wheelchair users as there are multiple floors.
This location may be suitable for people with mobility issues or walking difficulties - if you are able to use stairs.
All attendees must be 18 years or older
Not suitable for pregnant people
This is a dark location with uneven flooring, all attendees must bring a torch with them
Sensible shoes at all times, and warm and waterproof layered clothing is essential in cold weather
By purchasing tickets, your are agreeing to our terms & conditions and refund policies. It is your responsibility to share this information with all of your party attending.
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