Phantom Hound of Portesham
Perched on a hill in the rolling Dorset countryside, Hardy's Monument has stood tall since 1844, commemorating the 1840 Battle of Tolpuddle. But it's not just the monument itself that draws visitors - a phantom hound is said to roam the surrounding area, striking fear into the hearts of locals and tourists alike. This ghostly canine is often referred to as a Shuck, a type of spectral hound said to bring bad luck or even death to those who cross its path.
The origins of the phantom hound are shrouded in mystery, but it's believed to date back to the Victorian era, a time when superstition and folklore were rife. According to local legend, the hound is a harbinger of doom, appearing to those who are about to meet a tragic end. While there's no concrete evidence to support these claims, numerous witnesses have reported seeing the ghostly animal, describing it as a large, black dog with glowing eyes. Whether or not you believe in the supernatural, a visit to Hardy's Monument at dusk or dawn is sure to send shivers down your spine.
The monument was built in 1844 to commemorate the 1840 Battle of Tolpuddle.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Solid Gold
, Littlebredy
Littlebredy is home to an ancient burial mound known as the Grey Mare and Her Colts, a site steeped in local legend. Hidden beneath the mound is said to be a coffin made from solid gold, a treasure that has captured the imagination of many. But that's not all - this spot is also famous for sightings of a phantom horse, said to run freely around the area. The horse's ghostly presence is a common thread in local folklore, with many claiming to have caught a glimpse of the ethereal creature.
Abbotsbury Shadow Figure
B3157, Abbotsbury
On a dark and deserted stretch of the B3157, just outside Abbotsbury in Dorset, a driver had a terrifying encounter with a shadowy figure on the night of 31 August 2014. It was 02:00h and the driver was making their way along the winding road when suddenly they had to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting a dark shape that darted out in front of them. As they watched in amazement, the figure seemed to vanish into thin air, its legs disappearing before they could even reach the side of the road.
Glowing Feline Phantom
General area, Portesham
In the sleepy Dorset village of Portesham, a strange and unsettling legend has been passed down through the years. They say that a large cat with wide eyes and a tail that glows in the dark haunts the general area. This ghostly feline is known as the Glowing Tail, and its appearances are shrouded in mystery. Some claim to have seen it prowling through the village streets, its eyes fixed on unsuspecting passersby.
The Hellstone Legend
The Hellstone, Portesham
The Hellstone stands proudly in the rolling hills of Portesham, Dorset, shrouded in an aura of myth and legend. This ancient stone is said to have been hurled from Portland Pike by none other than Old Nick himself, during a game of Quoits. The story goes that the mischievous devil, also known as the 'Old Nick', was engaged in a spirited game when he tossed the stone, which landed with a thud, creating a lasting impression on the landscape. To this day, the Hellstone remains a fascinating curiosity, drawing in those with a taste for the paranormal and the unexplained.
Ilchester Arms Ghostly Coin Collector
Ilchester Arms Public House, Abbotsbury
The Ilchester Arms in Abbotsbury is a hotspot for paranormal activity. This old pub is said to be haunted by the ghost of a coin collector named Charles. His presence is marked by the sound of jangling coins, which one witness was lucky enough to hear. But Charles isnt the only spirit said to roam the Ilchester Arms. A phantom woman has been spotted in the toilets, and a ghostly dog is known to approach the windows, making this a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in the paranormal.
Roman Centurion Ghosts
New Barn, Abbotsbury
The rolling hills of New Barn in Abbotsbury, Dorset, are said to be haunted by the ghosts of Roman Centurions. This eerie presence is a fascinating phenomenon that has captured the imagination of locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike. The area's rich history, dating back to the Roman era, provides a chilling backdrop for these ghostly apparitions. It's not hard to imagine the centurions, once stationed in this very region, now patrolling the hills in spirit form.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Hardy's Monument

Golden Lion Hotel
Weymouth, Dorset

The Bull Hotel
Bridport, Dorset

The New Inn
Cerne Abbas, Dorset

The Acorn Inn
Evershot, Dorset