Wishing Holes of Abbotsbury
St Catherine's Chapel in Abbotsbury is home to a rather intriguing phenomenon known as the Wishing Holes. Located inside the chapel, these four holes - two for knees and two for hands - have been worn smooth by generations of hopefuls seeking to make a wish. Legend has it that by kneeling in these holes, people can send their deepest desires up to the heavens, and who knows, maybe even have them answered. The chapel itself is a stunning example of 14th-century architecture, perched atop a hill overlooking the picturesque village of Abbotsbury. As you explore the chapel, you can't help but feel a sense of history and mystique surrounding these humble holes.
The history of the Wishing Holes dates back to the chapel's construction in the 14th century. Over the years, devotees have used these holes to make wishes, praying for everything from good health to prosperity. While there's no concrete evidence to support the idea that the wishes are actually granted, the holes remain a popular attraction for visitors to the chapel. Interestingly, the chapel has undergone several restorations, but the Wishing Holes have remained a constant feature, a testament to the enduring power of hope and prayer. Today, visitors can still see the holes and even take a moment to make a wish of their own.
The chapel was built in the 14th century by the Lord of the Manor of Abbotsbury.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Heavenly Shortcut Haunting
St Catherine's Chapel, Melbury Osmund
Perched on a hilltop in rural Dorset, St Catherine's Chapel is a 14th-century chapel with a rather unusual claim to fame. The words engraved over its entranceway state that a visit here will allow you to enter heaven 120 days sooner after death than normal. This intriguing inscription has led to the chapel being dubbed a 'shortcut to heaven'. While it's unclear whether this claim is meant to be taken literally, it's certainly a unique selling point for those interested in exploring the paranormal side of English heritage.
Ilchester Arms Ghostly Coin Collector
Ilchester Arms Public House, Abbotsbury
The Ilchester Arms in Abbotsbury is a hotspot for paranormal activity. This old pub is said to be haunted by the ghost of a coin collector named Charles. His presence is marked by the sound of jangling coins, which one witness was lucky enough to hear. But Charles isnt the only spirit said to roam the Ilchester Arms. A phantom woman has been spotted in the toilets, and a ghostly dog is known to approach the windows, making this a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in the paranormal.
Abbotsbury Shadow Figure
B3157, Abbotsbury
On a dark and deserted stretch of the B3157, just outside Abbotsbury in Dorset, a driver had a terrifying encounter with a shadowy figure on the night of 31 August 2014. It was 02:00h and the driver was making their way along the winding road when suddenly they had to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting a dark shape that darted out in front of them. As they watched in amazement, the figure seemed to vanish into thin air, its legs disappearing before they could even reach the side of the road.
Roman Centurion Ghosts
New Barn, Abbotsbury
The rolling hills of New Barn in Abbotsbury, Dorset, are said to be haunted by the ghosts of Roman Centurions. This eerie presence is a fascinating phenomenon that has captured the imagination of locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike. The area's rich history, dating back to the Roman era, provides a chilling backdrop for these ghostly apparitions. It's not hard to imagine the centurions, once stationed in this very region, now patrolling the hills in spirit form.
Phantom Hound of Portesham
Hardy's Monument, Portesham
Perched on a hill in the rolling Dorset countryside, Hardy's Monument has stood tall since 1844, commemorating the 1840 Battle of Tolpuddle. But it's not just the monument itself that draws visitors - a phantom hound is said to roam the surrounding area, striking fear into the hearts of locals and tourists alike. This ghostly canine is often referred to as a Shuck, a type of spectral hound said to bring bad luck or even death to those who cross its path.
Solid Gold
, Littlebredy
Littlebredy is home to an ancient burial mound known as the Grey Mare and Her Colts, a site steeped in local legend. Hidden beneath the mound is said to be a coffin made from solid gold, a treasure that has captured the imagination of many. But that's not all - this spot is also famous for sightings of a phantom horse, said to run freely around the area. The horse's ghostly presence is a common thread in local folklore, with many claiming to have caught a glimpse of the ethereal creature.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near St Catherine's Chapel
Golden Lion Hotel
Weymouth, Dorset
The Bull Hotel
Bridport, Dorset
The New Inn
Cerne Abbas, Dorset
The Acorn Inn
Evershot, Dorset