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Devil's Boulder Legend

Devil's Boulder, Shebbear, Devon Legend Pre-WWII

Deep in the Devon countryside lies the ominous Devil's Boulder, a massive stone standing sentinel beside an ancient oak. Every year on November 5th, the villagers of Shebbear gather to perform a peculiar ritual - they turn the boulder over, a tradition steeped in local legend. It's said that if they fail to do so, disaster and ill-fortune will strike the region. The story goes that the last time the village forgot to rotate the stone, it was just before the Second World War began, fuelling speculation about the boulder's supposed link to the war. Some believe the Devil himself is trapped under the stone, waiting for his chance to escape.

Historical records of this peculiar tradition are scarce, but the legend of Devil's Boulder has been passed down through generations of Shebbear residents. While there's no concrete evidence to support the claims of supernatural happenings, the annual ritual has become an integral part of local folklore. The boulder itself is a sizeable granite rock, weathered to a moss-covered grey, and its proximity to the ancient oak adds to the sense of foreboding. Whether or not you believe in the legend, a visit to Devil's Boulder on November 5th is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Historical Context

The legend of Devil's Boulder dates back to pre-WWII times, with the story evolving over generations of local residents.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Natural Feature
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Local Legend
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
05 November (reoccurring)
Postcode Area
EX32

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