The Witch's Gate Ulwell
Ulwell's old toll gate is a spot where the ordinary and the paranormal collide. This rural gatehouse has a dark history that dates back centuries. Legend has it that a witch, who had taken the form of a black cat, was brutally killed while sitting on the gate. Since then, strange occurrences have been reported by travellers, particularly those who venture down this lonely road late at night. The gate is said to open by itself, beckoning in the unwary or perhaps warning them to turn back.
The story of the witch's demise is rooted in the history of Ulwell, a small village in Dorset. During the Victorian era, witch hunts were common, and it's likely that this incident occurred during that time. The transformation of the witch into a black cat adds a layer of mystique to the tale. While there's no concrete evidence to support the claim, the locals have passed down the story through generations. The self-opening gate has become a well-known phenomenon, attracting those interested in the paranormal. It's said that if you're travelling late and the gate opens, you might catch a glimpse of the mischievous spirit.
The incident likely occurred during the Victorian era, a time of widespread witch hunts in England.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Phantom Coach of Wool
Hethfelton House and/or stone bridge close to Bindon Abbey, Wool
In the sleepy village of Wool, nestled in the heart of Dorset, a chilling spectacle has been witnessed by those with Turbeville blood - a phantom horse-drawn coach, expertly crafted and eerily lit, careening towards the River Frome. This ghostly carriage, pulled by four majestic horses, is said to appear at midnight, its reoccurrence shrouding the event in an aura of foreboding. As it rattles along, the coach seems to be heading towards Bindon Abbey, passing over a 15th-century stone bridge that spans the river.
Grey Lady of Bindon Abbey
Ruins of Bindon Abbey, Wool
Deep in the Dorset countryside, the ruined Bindon Abbey stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Here, a phantom woman in a flowing grey dress is said to roam the grounds, beckoning curious onlookers with her ethereal presence. Described as quite beautiful, this ghostly apparition has captured the imagination of many, who claim to have spotted her wandering from the abbey's crumbling walls to the nearby River Frome. The atmosphere is said to be tranquil, with the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft lapping of the river against its banks.
Four Female Phantoms of Dairy Cottage
Coombe Keynes, Dairy Cottage
Dairy Cottage in Coombe Keynes is home to a most unsettling presence - four female phantoms that have been making their presence known for years. Three of these ghostly women were accused of witchcraft, a heinous crime that led to their downfall in a bygone era. The fourth phantom is that of a young girl who met a tragic end, murdered in the eighteenth century. The circumstances surrounding their deaths are shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain - their restless spirits continue to haunt the cottage.
Herman the German Tank Ghost
Bovington Camp, Bovington
Bovington Camp is home to a remarkable piece of military history - a Tiger tank on display. But beware, for this fearsome German vehicle is said to be haunted by the ghost of its former commander, Herman the German. Staff at the museum have reported strange sightings in the area around the tank, and it seems that Herman just cant leave his vehicle behind. The tank itself is an impressive sight, but visitors have begun to wonder if theyre not alone when they visit.
Glowing Castle Room
Lulworth Castle, Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Castle stands proudly in the picturesque village of Lulworth Cove, its stone walls bearing witness to centuries of history. But one room in particular has a reputation for being quite extraordinary. It's said that at night, this room would radiate an otherworldly glow, illuminating the darkness with an eerie light. The phenomenon was so intense that the room was actually knocked down and rebuilt, only to start glowing again. It's a mystery that has left many scratching their heads.
Lawrence of Arabia's Ghost
Clouds Hill cottage, Bovington
Clouds Hill, the former home of T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, is said to be haunted by his ghost. Lawrence often expressed his love for this quiet Dorset cottage, and it's perhaps no surprise that his spirit is believed to still reside here. Locals and visitors have reported strange occurrences, including the sound of a motorbike travelling along the local roads, which is thought to be Lawrence's beloved bike.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Old toll gate
