Two left shoes that date back to the 16th century have been found bricked up in the fireplace of the historic Britons Arms in Elm Hill.  

Now a city ghost hunter and history buff, who uses the alias Edward L Norfolk and runs Haunted and Abandoned Norfolk, has shared the secrets of the antique footwear.  

Edward said: “In earlier centuries the superstition of bricking up a shoe in the fireplace was commonplace because it was seen as a way of protecting the home from evil spirits.” 

Norwich Evening News: The shoes were used to ward off evil spirits who may be trying to gain entry to the home via the fireplace The shoes were used to ward off evil spirits who may be trying to gain entry to the home via the fireplace (Image: Haunted and Abandoned Norfolk)

They were put in the fireplace because chimneys were considered weak spots where bad spirits could enter the home. 

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But why were there two left shoes as opposed to a pair?  

Norwich Evening News: City history buff Edward L often uncovers the spooky truth surrounding city buildings City history buff Edward L often uncovers the spooky truth surrounding city buildings (Image: Haunted and Abandoned Norfolk)

Edward said: “The theory is that when an evil spirit finds the left shoe it immediately looks for the right shoe. When it cannot be found the spirit becomes confused.  

“In searching for the right shoe it leaves less time for haunting.” 

Norwich Evening News: Lots of historical things were uncovered in the buildings attic during a refurbishmentLots of historical things were uncovered in the buildings attic during a refurbishment (Image: Haunted and Abandoned Norfolk)

Other theories also include the shoes trapping witches who enter them and well-worn shoes taking on the persona of the wearer leaving their good spirit to protect the home.  

Edward said: “There are potentially thousands of pre-19th century and early 20th century houses in England containing hidden shoes protecting the home.

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“The first left shoe discovered in the Britons Arms' attic dates back to the 16th century and the second left shoe found dates to the 17th century. 

Norwich Evening News: Richard Ellis took over the Elm Hill venue in 2021 and loves itRichard Ellis took over the Elm Hill venue in 2021 and loves it (Image: Ella Wilkinson)

Richard Ellis, who took over the Britons Arms coffee house and restaurant in 2021, said: “It’s fascinating showing people up to the attic where the shoes are displayed and seeing their reaction when they hear the story.  

“One of the nice things to me about this building is that it doesn’t feel spooky, it feels lived in, and people get to see those little glimpses into each other's lives across these hundreds of years.”