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Petrified Hounds of Dartmoor

Great Hound Tor, Dartmoor, Devon Legend Pre-Victorian

Perched atop Great Hound Tor in the rugged Dartmoor landscape, a strange rock formation has been petrified in time, telling the tale of a long-forgotten encounter. This eerie monument to a farmer and his hounds has been turned to stone, forever chasing after a witch who cast a spell of transformation upon them. The story goes that the farmer and his loyal hounds were hot on the trail of the witch, determined to rid their farmland of her malevolent presence. But little did they know, she had a few tricks up her sleeve.

Historical records of this legend date back to the folklore of rural Devon, where stories of witchcraft and curses were a common occurrence. While there's no concrete evidence to support the actual events, the rock formation remains a popular tourist attraction and a fascinating example of local mythology. The site is steeped in history, with the moorland landscape providing a haunting backdrop to the petrified figures. Visitors can explore the area and ponder the circumstances surrounding the supposed petrification, left to wonder if the witch's spell was ever broken.

Historical Context

The legend is rooted in rural Devon folklore, with stories of witchcraft and curses common in the area.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Rock Formation
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Local Folklore
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Still present
Postcode Area
PL20

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