Superstition - not crossing on the stairs

[lindac]

Why is it considered bad luck not to cross someone on the stairs?

[Blender]

I don't know the answer but this might be a local custom. My grandmother, who was from the S of England, would turn round and go back down the stairs rather than cross someone but I've never heard of it in the W of Scotland. Be interesting to find out the extent of this custom.

[Janetx]

I don't know either, should I worry about this one. Just spent all day/night wearing my jumper inside out (my husband said the flapping shoulder pads made me look like an angel, though).

[Andromeda]

Certainly a supersition where I come from (sort of the North East). Can't say why unless it has something to do with attackers in castles and easy ways to assassinate you if you walk past someone on the stairs.

Andy

[rekstout]

Something to do with getting swords or hoop skirts entangled or something?