Excalibur's Mysterious Resting Place
Little Sea, a tranquil body of water in the picturesque village of Studland, Dorset, has a fascinating legend attached to it. This serene spot has been linked to the legendary sword Excalibur, said to have been wielded by King Arthur himself. According to myth, Arthur may have disposed of his trusty sword in Little Sea, adding a layer of mystique to this already enchanting location. While there's no concrete evidence to support this claim, the story has become an integral part of the area's folklore, drawing in curious visitors and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
The story of Excalibur's possible connection to Little Sea has been passed down through the centuries, with historians and locals referencing it as a notable piece of local history. Although the exact date of the alleged event is unknown, it's believed to have taken place during the 5th or 6th century, a time when King Arthur's legend is thought to have originated. While there's no definitive proof to confirm the story, the legend has become an integral part of the area's cultural heritage, making Little Sea a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring England's rich history and paranormal folklore.
Medieval legend linked to King Arthur's reign
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Old Harry's Haunted Cliffs
Cliffs, Studland
Studland Cliffs, with their rugged charm and breathtaking views, have long been associated with the supernatural. This stretch of coastline in Dorset is famously known as Old Nick's Ground, a name that hints at the mischievous presence said to inhabit these windswept cliffs. At the heart of this legend is Old Harry, a sea stack made of chalk that stands sentinel over the sea. The name Harry, by the way, is another name for the Devil, adding a layer of intrigue to this already fascinating location. Locals claim that the caves within these cliffs remain warm, a sign that Harry still likes to spend time here, watching over his domain.
The Pale Donkey of Newton Heath
Newton Heath, Studland
Deep in the Dorset countryside, Newton Heath is home to a rather poignant and puzzling ghostly apparition - a small white donkey. This phantom is said to appear briefly around Christmas each year, reenacting a tragic event from centuries past. According to local lore, the donkey's master was brutally robbed and murdered while crossing the heathland, but the poor animal vanished into thin air. Some say the donkey's spirit roams these rolling hills, searching for its beloved owner or perhaps trying to relive happier times.
The Woman in White Studland
Pathway from Studland beach to road near The Banks Arms pub, Studland
Studland's serene coastal path has been the site of a rather unusual and intriguing encounter. On a summer's day in August 2004 a group of four friends were strolling along this very path when they spotted a woman dressed in a crisp white coat and matching trousers her hair flowed down to her shoulders. She casually walked past them and said 'I have just been for a swim' before vanishing into thin air. The sudden disappearance left the group bewildered and wondering if they had just imagined the whole thing.
Devil's Rock Formation
Agglestone, Studland
Perched on the rugged coastline of Dorset, the Agglestone rock formation stands as a testament to the region's rich mythological heritage. This towering monolith, also known as Devil's Anvil or Devil's Nightcap, has been a source of fascination for locals and visitors alike for centuries. Legend has it that the rock came into being when the Devil, thwarted by Corfe Castle's obstruction of his view from Needles Rock in the Isle of Wight, hurled his nightcap in frustration, attempting to knock over the castle towers. Though his plan failed, the nightcap remained, taking the shape of the Agglestone we see today.
Maiden of Woodhouse Hill
Woodhouse Hill, Studland
Woodhouse Hill, a site of ancient Roman significance, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a British maiden and her Roman lover. This picturesque hill in Studland, Dorset, has a rich history dating back to the Roman era, and it's here that locals claim to have spotted the spectral couple. The exact circumstances of their deaths are shrouded in mystery, but their love is said to have been strong enough to transcend even death itself. Some say that on certain evenings, you can still see the maiden and her lover wandering the woods, their spirits forever entwined.
The Demon of Brownsea
Brownsea Castle, Brownsea Island
Brownsea Castle stands eerily on Brownsea Island, its stone walls bearing witness to a century of secrets and sorrow. In May 2003, a photograph taken from a window in the castle revealed a strange face, only visible after the film was developed. Some believe this apparition is Mary Bonham Christie, infamous as the 'Demon of Brownsea'. She purchased the island in the 1920s, forcibly removing two hundred residents. For 33 years, Mary lived alone in the castle, her life marked by isolation and tragedy.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Little Sea

Original White Hart
Ringwood, Hampshire

Rhinefield House Hotel
Brockenhurst, Hampshire

The Filly Inn
Setley, Hampshire

Albion Hotel
Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight