Skip to main content

Lewes Dowrich Curse

Dowrich manor house, Sandford, Devon Curse Modern

Dowrich Manor House in Sandford, Devon, is home to a most peculiar ghost story. Lewes Dowrich, the former owner, met a tragic end in 1973 when he fell from his horse on the nearby bridge and died from his injuries, likely exacerbated by his drunken state. According to local lore, a curse was placed upon him, condemning him to return home from the bridge, but with a twist - he could only move a mere ten centimetres every four weeks. It's said that in 1973, Lewes' ghost was spotted just a few metres short of its goal, a haunting sight that has left many a visitor intrigued.

The story of Lewes Dowrich's curse has been passed down through local legend, with many claiming to have caught a glimpse of the ghostly apparition. Historical records confirm that Lewes Dowrich did indeed live at Dowrich Manor House, and that he died under tragic circumstances in 1973. While the details of the curse may be shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain - the haunting of Dowrich Manor House remains a fascinating and unexplained phenomenon. The ghost's slow and laborious progress towards its goal has captivated the imagination of paranormal enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Historical Context

Lewes Dowrich lived at Dowrich Manor House in the 20th century.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Private Residence
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Single Witness
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Private Access
Date / Era
1973
Postcode Area
EX8

Nearby Haunted Places

Legend 1.9 mi

Lost Town of Langarroc

Penhale Sands, Penhale

Penhale Sands, a stretch of coastline in Devon, holds a haunting secret. The sands cover the remnants of a town that once stood there, a town that met its demise due to the great sins of its population. The story of Langarroc, as it's known, is a legend that has been passed down through the years, a reminder of the area's rich and mysterious history. The town's destruction and subsequent burial under the sands has led to speculation about the nature of its downfall and the restless spirits that may still linger.

Beach Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 3.7 mi

Phantom Motorbike of A377

Between Copplestone and Morchard Bishop, A377

The A377 road winds its way through the Devon countryside, a route taken by many a motorist. But for two travellers on 22 September 2022, this ordinary journey took an unsettling turn. As they drove along the road, they heard a motorbike approaching from behind, its engine growing louder with each passing second. Yet, no bike was in sight. The sound of the bike overtaking their car was unmistakable, followed by the fading hum of acceleration into the distance. The witnesses were left shaken by this inexplicable encounter.

Road Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 4.1 mi

Ghost of New Inn Inn

New Inn Inn, Coleford

The New Inn Inn in Coleford, Devon, is home to a lingering presence known as Sebastian, a former monk or Cavalier from a bygone era. It's said that Sebastian still roams the building, perhaps searching for something or someone. The atmosphere within these ancient walls can be quite unsettling, with many reporting strange occurrences that cant be easily explained. As you explore the inn, you might start to feel like youre being watched, and some have even caught glimpses of a fleeting figure out of the corner of their eye.

Historic Inn Pre-Victorian
Read Full Story
Shuck 5.3 mi

Devon Dark Hound Legend

General area, Down St Mary

Down St Mary is a small village in Devon where locals have long whispered about a mysterious dark hound that roams the streets from dusk till dawn. This phantom canine is said to patrol the village, its presence felt by residents and visitors alike. While there's no record of a specific sighting, the legend of the Black Hound has become an integral part of local folklore.

Rural Village Area Unknown
Read Full Story
Cryptozoology 5.6 mi

Mysterious Red Monkey Sightings

General area, Colebrook

In the quiet town of Colebrook, nestled in the heart of Devon, a bizarre series of sightings has left residents and visitors alike scratching their heads. For years, reports have surfaced of a strange creature lurking in the bushes, attacking anyone who ventures too close. Dubbed the Red Monkey, this enigmatic entity has become a source of fascination and fear for those familiar with its alleged presence. While details are scarce, one thing is certain - something unusual has been spotted in this picturesque town, and its reputation as a hub for cryptozoological activity has been cemented.

Rural Area Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 6.2 mi

Ghost of Thomas Beckett

Road through village, Lapford

Lapford village in Devon is home to a rather unusual and intriguing haunting. On the anniversary of his death, 29 December, the ghost of Thomas Beckett, also known as Thomas of Canterbury, is said to appear on horseback, passing through the village. This spectral apparition is a reoccurring sighting, and it's believed that Thomas Beckett's spirit relives the journey he took on the day of his martyrdom. The fact that this haunting occurs on a specific date adds to its mystique, and it's likely that the villagers have been aware of this phenomenon for centuries.

Road Medieval
Read Full Story

Stay Nearby

Haunted hotels and accommodation near Dowrich manor house