A couple bought a £490,000 converted church despite its 'haunted' crypt
A couple purchased a 19th-century converted church in the UK for £490,000, embracing its historic character despite concerns that the basement crypt may be haunted. The buyers moved in after a swift purchase process and are satisfied with the unique architectural features.
Why it matters
This human-interest story highlights the growing market for unconventional residential properties and the intersection of historical preservation with modern real estate trends.
A couple who paid £490,000 for a 19th-century church say they have found their “dream home”, despite believing the property's former crypt basement may be haunted. Joe and Mary Smith, aged 37 and 32, bought the church, located south of Bristol, in January 2026 after falling in love with its historic character.The previous owners had renovated the property around a decade ago while retaining many of its original features. Among the details that attracted the couple were the church's stained-glass windows and hardwood floors. However, since moving in, Mary has experienced what she describes as some unsettling activity around the former crypt, including hearing whistling and footsteps.Mary, who works in commercial events in finance and is from Bristol, said the property immediately stood out to them.
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