The Verwood Stone Legend
The Verwood Stone, a large ancient monolith in Dorset, is said to conceal a treasure beyond the grave. Legend has it that a golden container lies beneath the stone, guarded by a fierce large black bird that chases away anyone foolish enough to try and disturb the resting place. It's said that the bird's presence still lingers, causing unnatural cold spots in the area that leave visitors with a chill. The stone itself remains standing, a testament to the enduring power of local legend.
Historical records show that the stone has been known by various names, including the Hoarstone and Stephen's Stone. While there's no concrete evidence to support the treasure tale, the stone's presence has been documented for centuries. Some claim that on certain evenings, the air around the stone grows colder, as if the black bird's spirit still patrols its treasure. Whether or not you believe in the legend, a visit to the Verwood Stone can be a thought-provoking experience, especially as the sun begins to set.
The Verwood Stone dates back to the prehistoric era, with local legend evolving over the centuries.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Smuggler's Ghostly Apparition
Eastworth Farm, Verwood
Eastworth Farm in Verwood, Dorset, is a place where the past lingers. This former inn is said to be haunted by the ghost of a smuggler who met his demise in a rather grisly fashion, hanged from a nearby tree. It's little wonder that his spirit is believed to roam the premises, reliving the moments leading up to his tragic end. One resident has reported hearing the sound of footsteps on the staircase and doors opening, as if the smuggler is trying to make his presence known.
Dairymaid of Tyneham Ghost
Oak tree near Baltington Farm, Tyneham
Deep in the Dorset countryside, near the abandoned village of Tyneham, stands an ancient oak tree with a haunting secret. Carved into its bark is a coffin, said to mark the final resting place of a young dairymaid who took her own life. Locals believe her spirit still roams these woods, a wistful presence searching for peace. They call her the Dairymaid of Tyneham, a melancholy figure forever tied to this spot.
The Cloven Hoof Card Player
Three hundred year old barn, Shaftesbury
In the quaint town of Shaftesbury, Dorset, there's a tale that has been passed down through the years about a rather unusual card game that took place in a three hundred year old barn on French Mill Lane. It's said that young folks would often gather here on Sundays to play cards, but one particular Sunday, their games were interrupted by a stranger who joined in for a couple of rounds. As he bent down to pick up a dropped card, the other players caught a glimpse of something that made their blood run cold - he had a cloven hoof. This unsettling encounter was enough to put an end to their Sunday card games for good.
The Duke of Monmouth's Ghost
Woodlands, Horton
Deep in the woods of Horton, Dorset, a chilling apparition is said to roam. The ghost of the Duke of Monmouth, executed at the Tower of London, is believed to haunt the very area where he was captured after his ill-fated rebellion. His spirit is reportedly seen carrying his severed head in his hands, a grim reminder of his tragic fate. Locals and visitors alike have reported encountering this unsettling figure on July 16th of every year, the anniversary of his execution.
Shawled Woman of Horton
Horton Hollow area, Horton
In the quiet village of Horton, nestled in the Dorset countryside, there's a spot where locals and travellers alike have caught a glimpse of a mysterious figure. The Horton Hollow area, a rural road that winds its way through the rolling hills, is said to be haunted by a shawled woman. On December 31, 1920, a witness mistook her for a real person until she drifted through a hedge and vanished into a muddy pit. This eerie apparition has been seen by more than one person, with another witness describing a nun-like figure at the same spot.
Monks of Grim's Ditch
Grim's Ditch, Cranborne
Grim's Ditch, a Bronze or Iron Age relic, stretches across the Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire borders. It's here that people have spotted ghostly hooded figures, believed to be monks. The exact date and time of these sightings are unknown, but the apparitions have become a fascinating part of local folklore. The ditch, a significant historical landmark, now draws paranormal enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near The Verwood Stone

Original White Hart
Ringwood, Hampshire

Rhinefield House Hotel
Brockenhurst, Hampshire

The Filly Inn
Setley, Hampshire