Bovey Heath Ghostly Battle
Bovey Heathfield Local Nature Reserve is a tranquil spot, but dont be fooled - this is the site of a bloody battle from the English Civil War. On 9 January 1646, forces clashed here in what became known as the Battle of Bovey Heath. It's said that to this day, the sights and sounds of fighting are occasionally reenacted, as if the conflict is reliving itself. Imagine walking through the woods and heathland, surrounded by the eerie sounds of war cries and clashing steel.
The English Civil War was a tumultuous period in British history, marked by bitter divisions and brutal fighting. The Battle of Bovey Heath was a key skirmish, with Royalist forces facing off against Parliamentarian troops. Although the battle was fierce, its exact details are sketchy - but the reported paranormal activity is intriguing. While there are no documented witness accounts, the persistence of these ghostly reenactments suggests a lingering presence, as if the battle's energy still resonates through the landscape.
English Civil War battle site
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Mysterious Smoke at Riverside
The Riverside Inn Inn, Bovey Tracey
The Riverside Inn in Bovey Tracey has been the site of a rather unusual paranormal occurrence. Guests have reported being awoken in the middle of the night by the overpowering smell of smoke. The strange thing is, when they investigate, they can't find any source for the smell. It's as if the smoke is coming from nowhere. This has happened to at least one guest, and it's left them feeling puzzled and a bit spooked.
Devon's Cursed Churchyard
St John's Church, Bovey Tracey
St John's Church in Bovey Tracey is home to a rather unusual and intriguing legend. The churchyard was left unused for a while due to a superstition that the first body interred would belong to the Devil. It was only after a servant of a visiting dignitary was buried there that others felt it was safe to use the site for their loved ones. This strange tale has led to the local folklore that the churchyard was once considered cursed or even evil.
Chudleigh Knighton Dwarf Guardian
Exact location unknown, Chudleigh Knighton
Deep in the Devon countryside, near the village of Chudleigh Knighton, a mysterious figure is said to stand guard over a hidden treasure. This little man, known as the Dwarf, has been a part of local folklore for generations. According to legend, he protects a fabulous wealth, concealed from greedy men who might try to claim it for themselves. The Dwarf is often described as a type of fairy, tasked with keeping the treasure safe from those who would misuse it.
The Cunning Fox of Newton Abbot Golf Club
Golf Club, Newton Abbot
Newton Abbot Golf Club is home to a rather unusual ghostly presence - that of a cunning fox. This sly creature was said to have evaded the local fox hunting group back in the twentieth century, and now it seems to take great pleasure in gloating about its escapades. The fox is known to appear on the walls of the golf club, much to the surprise and delight of visitors. Its ability to evade capture all those years ago has earned it a certain notoriety, and it seems that its spirit still roams the club to this day.
Treasure Light of Hennock
Nearby lane, Hennock
In a quiet lane near the village of Hennock, a strange phenomenon has been observed for years. Locals call it the Treasure Light, a flaming marker that appears to indicate the spot where treasure is buried. However, this is no ordinary light - it has a habit of self-extinguishing before anyone can get too close. It's as if the light is deliberately avoiding detection, leaving many to wonder what secrets it might be hiding.
The Victorian Lady of Palk Arms
Palk Arms Public House, Hennock
Nestled in the heart of Hennock, Devon, the Palk Arms Public House has been a local favourite for many years, but it's also home to a rather intriguing ghost story. A woman in Victorian clothing has been spotted by several people over the years while in the pub, leaving many to wonder about her identity and presence. The atmosphere in the pub can be quite lively, but it's clear that this lady is a silent observer, choosing to keep to herself as she wanders through the rooms.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Bovey Heathfield Local Nature Reserve

The Old Church House Inn
Newton Abbot (Torbryan), Devon

Best Western Exeter Lord Haldon Country Hotel
Dunchideock, Devon

The Three Crowns
Chagford, Devon

Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
Okehampton, Devon