Jack Bates, also known as Jack the Blaster because he literally used explosives to blast a bigger cave into the limestone cliffs of Marsden Bay where the Grotto is now built into. In 1782, Jack moved his family into the cave (either because he was homeless or couldn't afford rent) and became a homeowner, just like that. The family ran a tea room-esque type business by offering tourists refreshments and knowledge of the local area, although it is said that this was also a front for smuggling contraband. Bates died in 1792 and the Grotto was bought by Peter Allen in 1826 where he restored the business and turned it into a 15 bedroom mansion. The area itself has witnessed many murders and suicides over the years and it is these spirits which are said to haunt the Marsden Grotto now. However, the shadow of a man can be seen lurking around the bar area, could this be Jack Bates? Members of staff repeatedly hear people whispering when they are alone and someone knocking from the inside of the cellar as if they are trapped. There are also a set of bare footprints on the floor which cannot be washed away.
