Exeter Red Light Phenomenon
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.
Historical records show that during World War II, Exeter was heavily bombed by the German air force. The city suffered significant damage, and many lives were lost. The red light at St Layes is believed to have been seen by many people during this time, possibly serving as a warning of impending doom. Although it's difficult to verify the exact number of sightings, the phenomenon has been documented and remains a fascinating part of Exeter's paranormal history.
Exeter was heavily bombed during WWII, resulting in significant damage and loss of life.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Exeter Black Shadow Sighting
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.
Exeter Fish Man Legend
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.
Exeter Alarm Clock Haunting
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.
Phantom Cyclist of Exeter
Exeter's Underground Passages, Exeter
Deep beneath the streets of Exeter lies a network of underground passages that have been open to the public for years. But it's not just the historic architecture and hidden tunnels that draw visitors in - it's the ghostly cyclist who seems to pedal his way through the darkness. Guides who lead tours through the passages have reported seeing a phantom cyclist whizzing by, leaving many to wonder if he's a former messenger or just a mischievous spirit. Some say he's a harbinger of good fortune, while others believe he's a warning of impending doom.
The Crying Mother of Exeter
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.
Gardener's Ghostly Father
Franklyn Mansion gardens, Exeter
Deep within the Franklyn Mansion gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Exeter, a chilling encounter took place. A gardener, tending to the grounds, claimed to have spotted his father's ghost while working in one of the gardens. This unsettling experience, occurring sometime in the nineteenth century, left an indelible mark on the witness. The crisis manifestation, as it came to be known, was a harrowing encounter that would be etched in the gardener's memory forever.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near St Layes

City Gate
Exeter, Devon

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

Best Western Exeter Lord Haldon Country Hotel
Dunchideock, Devon