Gog and Magog Giants Haunting
In the rolling hills and countryside around Totnes, Devon, a legendary tale has been etched into local folklore for centuries. The story revolves around Gog and Magog, giants who allegedly roamed this area before the arrival of Brutus, leader of the Trojans. According to myth, Brutus either spared their lives and enlisted them as guardians of his palace or brutally drowned them in the sea. While there's no concrete evidence to prove the existence of these giants, their legend has become an integral part of Totnes' rich history and cultural heritage.
Delving deeper into the historical context, it's clear that the tale of Gog and Magog has its roots in ancient mythology. The story is often linked to the legend of Brutus, who is said to have founded Britain. While the exact date of this event is shrouded in mystery, it's believed to have taken place around 1100 BC. The giants' story has been passed down through generations, with various adaptations and interpretations emerging over time. Today, visitors can explore the picturesque town of Totnes and its surrounding countryside, immersing themselves in the local history and folklore.
Ancient mythology and folklore
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Mysterious Brown Shapes Haunting
Totnes Guild Hall, Totnes
Totnes Guild Hall in Devon has been the site of a bizarre and intriguing paranormal incident. A series of photographs uploaded to YouTube by 'TheAnnekelly' on 27 September 2011 appear to show two brown shapes moving around a living room. The images were captured in darkness using a flash through a window, which has led some to speculate that the shapes could be insects on the glass. However, the strange movement and behaviour of the shapes have sparked interest among paranormal enthusiasts and researchers.
Ghostly Applause at Dartington
White Hart, Totnes
The White Hart in Totnes, close to Dartington Hall, is said to be haunted by the ghostly sound of rapturous applause. Staff closing up the hall in the late 1990s, after midnight, have reported hearing clapping and murmuring coming from the empty great hall. It's as if an invisible audience has gathered to appreciate a performance, but when checked, the hall is always found to be empty and securely locked. The eerie atmosphere of Dartington Hall, with its rich history, seems to be the perfect setting for such a strange and unexplained phenomenon.
Totnes Cook Ghost Apparition
King William the Fourth, Totnes
The King William the Fourth in Totnes has a rather eerie reputation. It's said that an elderly-looking ghost - identified as Bill, a cook who passed away on site - is the resident spectre here. Witnesses have reported seeing this apparition, and some have even experienced poltergeist-like activity too. This makes for a fascinating visit, especially for those interested in paranormal phenomena.
Totnes Grey Lady Ghost
Leechwell Street area, Totnes
In the charming town of Totnes, nestled in the heart of Devon, a mysterious figure has been spotted along several streets, including Leechwell Street. This ghostly entity, often referred to as the Grey Lady, is thought to be a nun, although her true identity remains a mystery. She appears as a fleeting presence, vanishing as quickly as she appears, leaving behind only whispers of her existence.
Totnes White Lady Ghost
Shinner's Bridge area Inn, Totnes
Shinner's Bridge area in Totnes, Devon, is home to a long-standing legend of a phantom woman dressed in white. This ghostly apparition is often referred to as the White Lady, a figure that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. While the exact date and time of her appearances are unknown, the White Lady is said to haunt the area around the local inn, sparking curiosity and intrigue among those who have heard her story.
Mary Brown's Ghostly Apparition
Kingsbridge Inn Inn, Totnes
The Kingsbridge Inn in Totnes, Devon, is home to a rather intriguing and tragic ghost story. Mary Brown, a former barmaid, met her untimely demise at the hands of the landlord after a brief affair turned sour. It's said that Mary's spirit only appears to women, adding a layer of mystery to her ghostly presence. Those who claim to have seen her report a fleeting glimpse of a woman, perhaps a reminder of the transience of life and the enduring power of love and loss.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near General area

The Old Church House Inn
Newton Abbot (Torbryan), Devon
The Royal Castle Hotel
Dartmouth, Devon

Best Western Exeter Lord Haldon Country Hotel
Dunchideock, Devon

The Burrator Inn
Dousland, Devon