Blind Jack's Last Road
17/18/19 August
An immersive ghost story inspired by Blind Jack metcalf
Visitor advisory
We cannot guarantee your safe return from Blind Jack's Last Road.
Those who stray from their guide may find themselves keeping company with the dead.
As darkness falls over Knaresborough, follow a ghostly guide to the ancient graves of St John’s Churchyard, where forgotten voices and restless souls gather beneath the night sky.
Inspired by the life of Blind Jack Metcalf, Yorkshire’s legendary road builder, this haunting after-dark experience blends live theatre, local history and folklore. Along the way you will encounter restless spirits, forgotten stories and, ultimately, the man himself.
blind jack metcalf (1717 to 1810)
Far more than a local legend. Blind from childhood, he became a violinist, guide, entrepreneur, soldier and one of Britain's greatest road builders, constructing over 180 miles of turnpike roads despite never seeing a single one of them.
JOHN METCALF
Here lies John Metcalf, one whose infant sight Felt the dark pressure of an endless night; Yet such the fervour of his dauntless mind, His limbs full strung, his spirits unconfined, That, long ere yet life's bolder years began, The sightless efforts mark'd th' aspiring man; Nor mark'd in vain - high deeds his manhood dared, And commerce, travel, both his ardour shared. 'Twas his a guide's unerring aid to lend - O'er trackless wastes to bid new roads extend; And, when rebellion reared her giant size, 'Twas his to burn with patriot enterprise; For parting wife and babes, one pang to feel, Then welcome danger for his contry's weal. Reader, like him, exert thy utmost talent given! Reader, like him, adore the bounteous hand of Heaven. All Saints Church, Spofforth, North Yorkshire