Phantom Coach of Shaftesbury
In the sleepy Dorset countryside, around Gussage All Saints, a spine-tingling sighting has been reported for centuries. The ghostly procession of the Earl of Shaftesbury's coach is said to rattle through the lanes, its spectral occupants on the lookout for souls to collect. This eerie apparition has been a local legend since the 17th century, with many claiming to have caught a glimpse of the phantom vehicle as it speeds through the darkness.
Historical records confirm that the Earl of Shaftesbury in question died in 1683, but his restless spirit seems to have lingered. According to folklore, his ghostly coach is a harbinger of doom, searching for unsuspecting travellers to ferry to the afterlife. While there are no documented witness accounts, the persistence of this legend suggests that many have indeed seen the phantom coach, its details passed down through generations of local residents.
The Earldom of Shaftesbury has a long history in Dorset, dating back to the 17th century
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Phantom Highwayman of Dorset
Drovers Inn Inn, Gussage All Saints
The Drovers Inn in Gussage All Saints, Dorset, is home to a rather unsavory specter - a phantom highwayman. This ghostly figure is said to haunt the pub's cellar, sending shivers down the spines of patrons and staff alike. Imagine walking down into the dimly lit cellar, the air thick with the smell of old wood and ale, and catching a glimpse of a shadowy figure out of the corner of your eye. It's a chilling thought, and one that's been experienced by many who've dared to venture into the cellar.
Knowlton Church Ghostly Apparitions
Church, Knowlton
Knowlton Church stands amidst a pagan temple, its tranquil surroundings belying a reputation for paranormal activity. Legends speak of dozens of restless spirits trapped within the church's walls, and the protective ditch that encircles the building is said to serve not as a barrier to intruders, but as a containment measure to keep the ghosts from escaping. The eerie atmosphere and rich history of this ancient site make it a fascinating destination for those drawn to the unexplained.
The Shapeless Mass Haunting
Barley Mow Public House, Wimborne
The Barley Mow Public House in Wimborne, Dorset, is home to a mysterious and unsettling presence - a dark, shapeless mass that hovers in the bar area. Patrons and staff have reported seeing this unearthly shape, but no one is quite sure what it is or what it represents. It's a baffling phenomenon that has left many questions unanswered. Is it a ghost, a spirit, or something more sinister? The truth remains a mystery, but one thing is certain - the Barley Mow is a place where the ordinary and the paranormal coexist.
Gussage St Michael Coffin Legend
Long barrow, Gussage St Michael
Deep in the Dorset countryside lies the ancient Long Barrow in Gussage St Michael, a site steeped in mystery and local legend. This historic earthwork is said to conceal a remarkable treasure - a gold or silver coffin. While there's no concrete evidence to support the claim, the story has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike for centuries. The allure of a hidden coffin has led many to speculate about the barrow's secrets, but the truth remains elusive.
The Reverend of King's House
King's House, Wimborne
King's House in Wimborne is home to a very peculiar ghost. Every morning at 06:00, the former reverend, Percy Newall, is said to walk around the building, bible in hand. His gentle strolls are a far cry from the typical frightening spectre one might expect. Newall's appearances are reoccurring and have been documented, adding credibility to this strange phenomenon. It's not clear what draws him to these early morning walks, but it's certainly a unique experience for those who claim to have seen him.
The Hooded Woman of St Giles
St Giles Estate, Wimborne St Giles
Deep in the Dorset countryside, on the St Giles Estate near Wimborne St Giles, a bizarre and intriguing haunting has been reported. A phantom woman, clad in white with a hood covering her face, was seen rushing into a hedge, her actions seemingly driven by some unseen force. What's more, the sounds of a horse and cart could be heard travelling through the woodland, yet nothing was visible to the witness. This strange sequence of events has left many questions unanswered, and the true nature of this apparition remains a mystery.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Lanes in the area

Original White Hart
Ringwood, Hampshire

Rhinefield House Hotel
Brockenhurst, Hampshire

The Filly Inn
Setley, Hampshire