Ghost of Judge Jeffereys
Lydford Castle, a Norman fortification in Devon, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Judge Jeffereys, also known as the Black Pig. This eerie apparition is believed to be the spirit of the infamous judge who was involved in the Bloody Assizes, a series of trials that took place in the late 17th century. The Black Pig is said to roam the castle grounds, striking fear into the hearts of those who dare to venture near. Some believe that the ghostly apparition is a manifestation of Judge Jeffereys' guilt and remorse for his role in the brutal suppression of the Monmouth Rebellion.
Built in the 11th century, Lydford Castle has a long and bloody history, having been used as a prison and a site of execution. Judge Jeffereys, who was known for his ruthless tactics, was instrumental in putting down the Monmouth Rebellion in 1685. His actions were widely criticized, and it's said that his ghostly presence is a reminder of the atrocities committed during this period. Another ghost said to haunt the castle is that of Lady Howard, although details of her story are scarce. The combination of these two ghostly presences makes Lydford Castle a fascinating and unsettling destination for paranormal enthusiasts.
Lydford Castle was built by the Normans in the 11th century and has a history of use as a prison and execution site.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Kitt's Pool Ghost
Lydford Gorge, Lydford
Deep within Lydford Gorge, a tranquil pool bears the name of Kitt, a woman who met a tragic end. They say she drowned in the water, and to this day, her spirit is seen re-enacting the moment of her death. She's easily recognisable, wearing a bright red scarf on her head and carrying a large basket in her arms. It's a poignant sight, and one that has been reported by many who have visited this beautiful but haunted spot.
Dartmoor Inn Poltergeist
Dartmoor Inn Inn, Lydford
The Dartmoor Inn in Lydford is home to a mischievous poltergeist known as the Glass Thrower. This troublesome spirit is blamed for smashing glasses and tampering with the beer pumps if they malfunction. It seems the Glass Thrower has a particular grudge against new management, as it's reported to appear for only a couple of weeks after a new landlady or lord takes over. Locals and visitors alike have experienced the strange occurrences, making it a fascinating spot for those interested in the paranormal.
The White Lady Falls Ghost
White Lady Falls, Lydford Gorge
Deep within Lydford Gorge, the picturesque White Lady Falls has been a source of fascination for centuries. It's here, at the base of this breathtaking waterfall, that a phantom white woman in a long white gown is said to appear. Locals and visitors alike have reported catching glimpses of this ethereal figure, leaving many to wonder about the story behind her haunting presence.
The Devil's Church Stones
Church, Brentor
Brentor Church sits atop a tor in Devon, its foundation stones famously moved night after night by the Devil himself. The story goes that the Devil came to the construction site every night, relocating the stones to the top of the tor. The builders, exhausted and exasperated, finally gave up trying to move them back and decided to build the church right there on the tor. It's a curious tale that has become an integral part of the church's history and mystique.
Crying Child Ghost Bridestowe
Bearslake Inn Inn, Bridestowe
Nestled in the heart of Devon, the Bearslake Inn in Bridestowe is home to a heartbreaking haunting. Guests and staff have reported hearing the sound of a young child crying, believed to be the ghost of little Mary, daughter of a former owner. According to legend, Mary fell down the stairs and died from her injuries. Her spirit is said to still roam the inn, reliving the tragic moment of her death. The cries of little Mary have been heard by many, leaving a lasting impression on those who have experienced it.
The Crying Child of Bearslake
Bearslake Inn Inn, Okehampton
Bearslake Inn in Okehampton is home to a heartbreaking presence - that of a young girl named Clare. After staff have locked up for the night, the sound of a crying child can be heard echoing through the empty halls. The story goes that Clare lost her life in a tragic accident, tumbling down the staircase. Her spirit is said to linger, reliving the moment of her passing.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Lydford Castle
Lewtrenchard Manor
Lewdown, Devon
The Bedford Hotel
Tavistock, Devon
The Burrator Inn
Dousland, Devon
The Oxenham Arms
South Zeal, Devon