Folklore, not frights, at heart of new Amble museum plan
Northumberland's paranormal history and rich history of storytelling are at the heart of the ambition
A new museum proposal in Amble is aiming to explore Northumberland’s darker folklore - without resorting to jump scares or haunted house theatrics.
Amble-based creative Michele Marie Liddle has launched a crowdfunding campaign to create the Northumberland Haunted Museum, a community-led project rooted in local history, legend and storytelling.
The proposed museum would focus on the region’s rich tradition of folklore and paranormal belief, drawing on historic accounts, cultural references and stories shared by residents.
Planned as a Community Interest Company, the museum is intended to be as much a gathering place as an exhibition space. The proposed layout includes a communal ground-floor area for conversation, talks and workshops, encouraging visitors to share stories and connect. An upstairs gallery would explore the more unsettling side of the paranormal, including curious or allegedly haunted objects, presented in an educational and respectful way.
Paranormal investigations are also part of the vision, but with an emphasis on authenticity and learning rather than spectacle. Michele is currently searching for a suitable historic or underused building in Northumberland to house the project.
The crowdfunding campaign invites supporters to help shape the museum from the outset. Rewards include name recognition within the space, access to events and investigations, and other behind-the-scenes experiences. Those unable to donate are encouraged to support the project by sharing the campaign.
Michele says the museum grows out of a lifelong interest in the paranormal, rekindled after moving to Amble in 2021 and building strong connections across the local paranormal community.
The ambition is to create a permanent cultural space that celebrates Northumberland’s stories - eerie, everyday and everything in between.