Smugglers Ghosts in Bournemouth
St Andrews Church in Bournemouth stands sentinel over the town, its graveyard harbouring secrets of a bygone era. Legend has it that beneath the church and its grounds, a network of tunnels once facilitated the illicit activities of smugglers, who used these hidden passages to spirit their contraband away from prying eyes. It's said that the ghosts of these smugglers still roam the area, their restless spirits a testament to the clandestine lives they led.
The history of smuggling in this part of Dorset dates back centuries, with Bournemouth's proximity to the coast making it an ideal hub for such activities. Although the exact dates of these events are unclear, it's known that smuggling was rife in the 18th and 19th centuries. The tunnels beneath St Andrews Church are believed to have been used during this time, providing a hidden route for smugglers to move their goods. Today, visitors report seeing apparitions flitting around the churchyard, believed to be the ghosts of these smugglers, still guarding their secrets.
The church and its tunnels date back to the 18th century, a time when smuggling was prevalent in the area.
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Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Mermaid of Portland
Church Ope Cove, Portland
Church Ope Cove on the picturesque Isle of Portland in Dorset is said to be the spot where a mermaid came ashore, but sadly didn't survive for long. According to local legend, the mythical creature was discovered by people heading to church, who were understandably shocked to see a half-human, half-fish being lying on the beach. The story has been passed down through the years, and while its authenticity is impossible to verify, it remains a fascinating footnote in the island's history.
The Tow Dog of Portland
All over Island, Isle of Portland
The Isle of Portland, a picturesque island off the coast of Dorset, is said to be roamed by a mysterious and shaggy creature known as the Tow Dog, or Row Dog. This ghostly hound stands an astonishing six foot tall and has been known to appear to island residents and visitors alike. But what makes the Tow Dog unusual is its behaviour - it seems to only block people's path, never harming or injuring them. It's as if this phantom canine is trying to communicate or warn people of something, but what?
Fairies Flee Portland
General area, Portland
Portland, a place of rugged beauty and ancient history, has a rather unusual tale to tell. It's said that back in the 1750s, the local fairies got a bit of a fright when the first church bell rang out across the region. It seems they packed their bags and fled in a hurry, leaving behind a trail of whispers and wonder. The story may seem far-fetched, but it's been passed down through the years, a testament to the area's rich folklore.
Underground Mutton Curse
General area, Portland
On the rugged Isle of Portland in Dorset, a rather unusual superstition took hold back in the nineteenth century. It all started with the tragic death of a quarry crane operator, whose demise was blamed on a collapsing rabbit warren. This incident gave birth to a widespread belief that rabbits were unlucky creatures. Locals began referring to them as 'underground mutton', 'furry things', or simply 'bunnies' to avoid using the actual word. This quaint yet intriguing tale has evolved into a reported curse that still sends shivers down the spines of locals and visitors alike.
The Lady of Boot Inn
Boot Inn Inn, Allington
Boot Inn in Allington, Dorset, is home to a particularly poignant ghost story. This historic inn, with its creaky floorboards and roaring fires, is said to be visited by the spirit of a former landlady who has a special concern for those who are ill. She makes her presence known only to those who are unwell, offering comfort and solace in times of need. It's a gentle and benevolent haunting that has been reported by numerous guests over the years.
The Sickness Indicator Ghost
Boot Inn Inn, Bridport
The Boot Inn in Bridport, Dorset, has a rather intriguing reputation for being haunted by a phantom that only manifests when a guest is unwell. This unusual phenomenon has sparked curiosity among paranormal enthusiasts and locals alike. The story goes that the ghostly presence is a sort of indicator, alerting others to the fact that someone is ill. While the exact nature of this ghost remains a mystery, it's said to appear alongside a soldier and a man in old-fashioned clothing, adding to the inn's eerie atmosphere.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near St Andrews Church


