Golden Frogs of St Mary's Well
St Mary's Well in Bovey Tracey is home to a delightful legend about a mysterious woman who brought magic to a poor farming couple. After they kindly offered her shelter from a storm, she repaid their kindness by curing their ailing child and creating a well so they would never go thirsty again. As a token of her gratitude, a colony of golden frogs made the well their home, and it's said they still thrive there today.
This charming tale has been passed down through the years, and while we can't verify the supernatural elements, St Mary's Well remains a popular spot in Devon. The well is still present, and its picturesque setting makes it a lovely place to visit. The story of the golden frogs has become an integral part of local folklore, and it's easy to see why - who wouldn't be enchanted by the idea of a magical well and its tiny, golden inhabitants?
The well has been a local landmark for centuries, with the legend of the golden frogs being a well-known tale in the area.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Ottery St Mary Ghostly Apparition
Churchyard, Ottery St Mary
In the sleepy village of Ottery St Mary, nestled in the heart of Devon, a chilling apparition is said to roam the churchyard on a specific date each year. On 26 March, the anniversary of his tragic death, John Coke is believed to briefly emerge from his tomb to survey his surroundings. This ghostly manifestation is thought to be a precautionary measure, as if Coke is checking that his brother, his killer, is not lurking in the shadows. The locals have grown accustomed to this annual event, but it still sends shivers down the spines of those who claim to have witnessed it.
Mysterious Money Heap Barrow
Money Heap, Sidbury
Money Heap in Sidbury, Devon, is home to a most intriguing phenomenon. This ancient barrow, a type of prehistoric burial mound, has a reputation for being particularly stubborn when it comes to excavation. Locals claim that if anyone tries to dig into the barrow, the ground quickly replaces itself, as if an unseen force is actively working to restore the site to its original state. This strange occurrence has led to the site being shrouded in mystery, with many wondering what could be causing this unusual reaction.
Ghostly Girl at Southern Cross Guest House Devon
Southern Cross Guest House, Newton Poppleford
The Southern Cross Guest House in Newton Poppleford has a reputation for being haunted by the ghost of a teenage girl. According to reports from the 1940s, workmen removing a hidden staircase leading up to the roof heard her crying. In more recent times, guests have experienced strange occurrences while staying at the hotel.
The Grey Lady of Chardstock
Area between the churchyard and the vicarage, Chardstock
In the quaint village of Chardstock, nestled in the rolling hills of Devon, a peculiar presence has been noted by locals and visitors alike. The area between the churchyard and the vicarage seems to be a favoured haunt of a little grey lady, who occasionally moves between the two buildings. Her appearances are sporadic and not well documented, but those who have caught a glimpse of her describe a fleeting, ghostly figure in a grey dress.
The Sidmouth Shop Ghost
New Look shop, Sidmouth
In the charming seaside town of Sidmouth, nestled in the heart of Devon, a most intriguing haunting has been reported at the local New Look shop. It's here that a mischievous spirit, identified as Gladys, has been blamed for a series of unexplained occurrences. Staff and customers alike have heard disembodied footsteps and whisperings, while crashes and bangs have also been attributed to this ghostly presence. Described as a woman in black, Gladys seems to have been a Victorian lady, whose restless spirit has lingered long after her passing.
Charlotte's Ghostly Apparition
Kennaway House, Sidmouth
Kennaway House in Sidmouth, Devon, is home to a gentle soul, Charlotte. In March 2012, a young female ghost wearing a long dress was spotted sitting quietly in the corner of a room. Thankfully, Charlotte's presence is said to be non-threatening, making her a welcome visitor to this historic house. Her peaceful nature has been reported by those lucky enough to have caught a glimpse of her.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near St Mary's Well

Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
Okehampton, Devon
The White Hart Hotel
Exeter, Devon

City Gate
Exeter, Devon

Fisherman's Cot
Bickleigh, Devon