The Phantom Verger of Christchurch
Priory Cottage in Christchurch, Dorset, is home to a most intriguing ghostly presence. This phantom verger, affectionately nicknamed Old Joe, has been seen milling around the garden. The sightings date back to the 1950s, a time when the verger's presence was first reported. It's said that Old Joe wanders the grounds, perhaps still attending to his duties as a verger, even in death. The verger's ghostly apparition is a harmless one, and those who have spotted him describe the experience as more curious than unsettling.
Further adding to the mystique of Priory Cottage, the history of the property and its connection to the church may hold the key to understanding Old Joe's lingering presence. As a verger, Old Joe would have been responsible for the care and upkeep of the church and its grounds. It's possible that his dedication to his duties has transcended even death itself. While there aren't multiple detailed accounts of Old Joe's appearances, the fact that he has been seen by various people over the years lends credibility to the claims. The exact nature of his duties and the circumstances of his death remain a mystery, leaving us to speculate about the reasons behind his ghostly wanderings.
Priory Cottage is located near Christchurch Priory, a historic church that dates back to the 11th century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Christchurch Priory Ghostly Monks
Christchurch Priory, Christchurch
Christchurch Priory is said to be haunted by the ghostly apparitions of several monks. One entity is reportedly seen standing at the top of the tower staircase, while others have been spotted wandering the grounds. In the 1970s, a vicar claimed to have witnessed multiple phantom monks carrying a coffin across the graveyard. These sightings have contributed to the priory's reputation as a hub of paranormal activity.
Ghostly Apparitions at Castle Tavern
Castle Tavern, Christchurch
The Castle Tavern in Christchurch, Dorset, has a reputation for being one of the most haunted pubs in the area. It's said that several ghostly entities roam the premises, including a ghostly old lady, a man in black, a young boy, and a misty shape. These apparitions were reportedly seen by multiple witnesses back in the 1980s, and their presence has become the stuff of local legend. The old lady ghost is particularly intriguing, but details about her identity or what she might be doing there are sadly lacking.
Ship in Distress Ghost
Ship in Distress Public House, Christchurch
The Ship in Distress Public House in Christchurch, Dorset, is a place where the past lingers, quite literally. This old pub has a reputation for strange happenings, all attributed to the ghost of Sam Hookey, an old smuggler who met his demise in the nearby river. His spirit is said to roam the pub, making its presence known through loud, unidentified sounds and unpleasant odours. It's as if Hookey's adventurous life hasn't ended yet, and he's still causing a stir in the quiet town of Christchurch.
Christchurch Sea Dragon Legend
Skies above and off coast, Christchurch
Christchurch has long been associated with a terrifying legend from the medieval period. In the early 12th century, a monstrous creature emerged from the sea and took to the skies, wreaking havoc on the town. The beast, described as a five-headed dragon, was said to have destroyed the local church and many surrounding houses, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The event was documented by the third abbot of Saint Martin of Tournai, providing a rare glimpse into the town's paranormal history.
Bournemouth Poltergeist Haunting
Unidentified flat, Bournemouth
In the sleepy Bournemouth suburb of Boscombe, a most peculiar and intriguing haunting took place back in 1964. A woman living alone in a flat began experiencing strange occurrences that would leave any homeowner perplexed. She would wake up in the dead of night to find her bed sheets being tucked in around her, as if an invisible presence was ensuring she was snug and comfortable. But that wasnt the only bizarre event - a particular book would also move itself onto the bed, leaving the woman baffled as to how it got there.
Puck's Down Fairy Haunting
Pokesdown area, Bournemouth
Pokesdown, a suburb of Bournemouth, has a name that hints at a mystical past. The area was once known as Puck's Down or Fairy Down, a name that has been corrupted over time. While the reason for this name has been lost to history, it's clear that the area has a unique and intriguing heritage. The name Puck, after all, is associated with mischievous spirits in English folklore, often linked to the supernatural and the fae.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Priory Cottage

Original White Hart
Ringwood, Hampshire

Rhinefield House Hotel
Brockenhurst, Hampshire

The Filly Inn
Setley, Hampshire

Albion Hotel
Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight