Wishing Stone Legend
Sliding Hill in Bettiscombe, Dorset, is home to a rather unusual legend. Every year on Midsummer Eve, a magical stone known as the Wishing Stone is said to propel itself down the hill, only to return the following day. This phenomenon has been occurring for as long as anyone can remember, and it's a testament to the enduring power of local folklore. The hill itself is a picturesque spot, surrounded by rolling countryside and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
The origins of the Wishing Stone legend are shrouded in mystery, but it's likely that the story has its roots in ancient pagan traditions. Midsummer Eve, also known as St John's Eve, has long been a significant date in the British calendar, often associated with magic and supernatural activity. While there's no concrete evidence to support the existence of the Wishing Stone, the fact that the legend has persisted for so long suggests that it taps into a deep-seated desire for wonder and enchantment. On 23 June, locals and visitors alike gather on Sliding Hill to witness this strange and captivating event.
The legend has been passed down through generations of locals.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Bettiscombe Manor Haunting
Bettiscombe Manor, Bettiscombe
Bettiscombe Manor in Dorset is home to a rather unusual and intriguing haunting. The manor is said to be haunted by the skull of a slave, which is rumoured to scream if removed from the house. One former owner, unable to bear the unsettling presence of the skull, threw it into a nearby pond, only to retrieve it two days later after being kept awake at night by strange, unexplained sounds. This bizarre incident is just one of many reported experiences at the manor.
Devil's Jumps Haunting
Clumps of trees between village and Thorncombe, Marshwood
The Devil's Jumps is a small cluster of trees nestled between Marshwood village and Thorncombe in Dorset. This eerie spot is steeped in local legend, where the Devil himself is said to have bounced along the ground after a rather forceful encounter with the Abbot of Forde. As the story goes, the Devil's nocturnal antics don't stop there - some claim that the trees themselves seem to move to a nearby stream to quench their thirst under the cover of darkness. Others whisper that the Devil returns after sundown to swing from tree to tree, as if reliving the mischief of yesteryear.
Phantom Coach Haunting
Lane leading to Stoke Abbott, Beaminster
This rural lane leading to Stoke Abbott in Beaminster, Dorset, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a wicked landowner. Legend has it that he's condemned to drive his coach and four horses along this very lane, reliving his past misdeeds for eternity. The locals have shared stories of strange sightings and unexplained occurrences, making this a chilling spot for those interested in the paranormal. As you walk down the lane, you can't help but feel a sense of unease, wondering if you'll catch a glimpse of the phantom coach.
Lambert's Castle Ghostly Apparitions
Lambert's Castle, Marshwood
Lambert's Castle in Marshwood, Dorset, has a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in the county. This ancient hillfort has been the site of numerous paranormal sightings, although the details of these encounters are sadly lacking. A seventeenth century historian noted that the castle was particularly haunted, but unfortunately neglected to specify what kind of ghostly activity was occurring. This omission has only added to the mystique of the location, leaving visitors to wonder what kind of spirits might be lurking in the ruins.
Lewesdon Hill Fairy Haunting
General area, Lewesdon Hill
Lewesdon Hill, the second highest peak in Dorset, is said to be home to an extended family of fairies, affectionately known as the Little Folk. This enchanting hill has a rich history of paranormal activity, with reports of strange sightings and unexplained events. In recent years, locals have claimed to have spotted a large black cat roaming the area, adding to the hill's mystique. But it's the sighting from the late 1970s that's perhaps the most chilling - a woman and her two children all witnessed a headless horseman emerging from a fog bank, a sight that's left many to wonder about the hill's secrets.
The Sword of Five Bells
Five Bells Public House, Morecombelake
In the quaint village of Morecombelake, the Five Bells Public House stands as a hub of local life. However, few patrons are aware of the intriguing legend tied to a sword hanging in a cupboard within its walls. According to local lore, this sword serves as a preventive measure against a haunting. If removed, it's said that ghostly apparitions would return to trouble the premises. The sword's presence has become an integral part of the pub's history, with many curious about the story behind it.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Sliding Hill


