Alleyway that runs from the top of South Street to the Cathedral Green, Exeter

This alleyway that runs from the top of South Street to the Cathedral Green in Exeter has been the site of a bizarre and unsettling encounter. On 18 April 2010 at 01:00h, a man walking down the alleyway became aware of a dark shadow looming over him and felt a presence over his right shoulder. As he turned to investigate, he saw a black mass which seemed to dissipate upwards into the night. The sudden appearance of this shadowy figure left the witness with a lasting impression of unease.

Coastline, Exeter

Exeter's rugged coastline has witnessed many a strange occurrence, but few are as bizarre as the 1737 sighting of a fish-like humanoid. On a chilly November evening, a group of fishermen on the shore stumbled upon a creature that defied explanation. Standing at an astonishing four feet tall, it had duck-like feet and a tail protruding from its back. The fishermen, understandably startled, quickly overpowered the creature, beating it with sticks until it succumbed to its injuries. This was not an isolated incident, as a second, similar creature was caught a few months later in the same area, although this one was described as having more seal-like qualities.

Unstated house, Exeter

In a quiet Exeter home on Sidwell Street, a most unusual and intriguing paranormal event took place, leaving the occupant, M Russell, shaken. It was here that Russell awoke at 05:00h to the sound of someone in great distress, seemingly emanating from their alarm clock. In a moment of instinctive comfort, Russell took the clock and held it close until the sounds ceased. The experience was soon overshadowed by devastating news - Russell's uncle had passed away, with the post-mortem confirming the time of death as around 05:00h, eerily coinciding with the strange occurrence.

St Layes, Exeter

St Layes, a spot with a dark history, is where the ruins of a church stand. It's said that a red light appears to people who are about to face tragedy in their lives. This phenomenon was commonly seen during the blitz of the Second World War by those who would be killed by bombs or the resulting fires. The red light is considered a crisis manifestation, a warning sign that something terrible is about to happen.

Martin's Lane, Exeter

Martin's Lane in Exeter is home to a heartbreaking ghost story. A weeping woman is said to haunt this quiet lane at night, her tears a testament to the anguish she feels. Her daughter, it is said, ran away to follow Sir Francis Drake on his last voyage, and never returned. The mother's grief is palpable, and those who have encountered her report feeling a deep sense of sadness.

Royal Clarence Hotel, Exeter

The Royal Clarence Hotel in Exeter is home to a rather unusual ghostly presence. Guests and staff have reported hearing unexplained coughing sounds, which some believe are the spirit of Sir Walter Raleigh, the famous explorer and courtier. The hotel stands on the site of Raleigh's father's house, which could explain the connection. While there's no concrete evidence to prove the identity of the ghost, the persistent coughing noises have become a well-known phenomenon among paranormal enthusiasts.