Skip to main content

Robin Hood's Peniston Stone

Stone along the road between Nettlepot and Wenmer Gill, Lunedale, Durham Legend Medieval

Perched along the winding road between Nettlepot and Wenmer Gill in Lunedale, the Peniston Stone has a rather unusual claim to fame. Legend has it that the stone was thrown into position by none other than Robin Hood himself, while he was entertaining his men on top of nearby Shacklesborough Hill. It's said that the outlaw hero was feeling a bit bored, so he decided to show off his impressive archery skills by hurling the stone into place. This quirky tale has been passed down through the years, leaving many to wonder if there's any truth behind the myth.

Historical records of the area don't provide much concrete evidence to support the legend, but the story of Robin Hood's Peniston Stone has become an integral part of local folklore. The stone itself is a large, unassuming boulder, but its connection to the legendary outlaw has made it a popular spot for curious travellers and fans of English mythology. While there's no concrete evidence to suggest that the stone is haunted, its unique history and picturesque setting make it a fascinating stop for anyone exploring the rolling hills of County Durham.

Historical Context

Medieval English folklore

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Roadside Attraction
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Local Legend
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Unknown if still present
Postcode Area
DL13

Nearby Haunted Places

Apparition 2.7 mi

The Chained Figure of Petermoor Hill

Petermoor Hill, Seaton Moor

Petermoor Hill in Seaton Moor, Durham, is home to a rather eerie sighting that's been talked about since the early nineteenth century. At the bottom of this hill, a translucent figure has been spotted by passersby, and it's said to be quite a frightening experience. This ghostly figure is known to wave its chains at anyone who dares to walk by, giving them a good scare. The figure is described as being transparent, which adds to the mystique and fear factor of this encounter.

Hill Early Nineteenth century
Read Full Story
Fairy 4.7 mi

Fairy Child of Tower Hill

Tower Hill, Middleton in Teeside

Tower Hill in Middleton in Teesdale is home to a rather unusual and intriguing haunting. It was here that a woman once stumbled upon a fairy child by the nearby river. She took the little creature home, but it cried constantly until she returned it to its original spot. The fairy child was said to have had striking red eyes. If you place your ear to the ground, you can still hear the faint sound of fairy music emanating from within the hill.

Hill Unknown
Read Full Story
Apparition 5 mi

The Singing Lady of Cauldron Snout

Cauldron Snout waterfall, River Tees

Deep in the North Pennines, near the River Tees, lies the breathtaking Cauldron Snout waterfall. This stunning location is said to be haunted by the melancholy spirit of a young farm girl. Her story goes that a broken relationship with a local miner led her to take her own life. Now, her pitiful shade can be heard singing a sorrowful tune, echoing off the rugged rocks and misty veil of the waterfall. The atmosphere here is undeniably eerie, with the roar of the falls and the haunting melody combining to create a truly unsettling experience.

Waterfall Victorian
Read Full Story
Legend 8 mi

The Wizard's Cave Sleep

Wizard's Cave, Tynemouth

Deep within the rugged coastline of Tynemouth lies the enigmatic Wizard's Cave, a place shrouded in mystery and local legend. This ancient cave is said to contain a person who is in a magical sleep, a story that has captured the imagination of many. While the exact location of the cave remains a mystery, its reputation as a site of paranormal activity has endured for generations. The idea of a person trapped in a magical slumber raises questions about the nature of time and reality, and it's little wonder that this tale has become a staple of local folklore.

Cave Unknown
Read Full Story
Fairy 9 mi

Fairy Royals of Clint's Crags

Clint's Crags, Ireshope

Clint's Crags, a rugged and picturesque outcrop in the Durham countryside, is said to be home to a hidden palace of the fairy royal family. This enchanting notion has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike for generations. While there's no concrete evidence to support the existence of these mythical beings, the allure of the fairies' supposed residence here is undeniable. The crags themselves are a haven for walkers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Crags Unknown
Read Full Story
Poltergeist 9.6 mi

Ancient Unicorn Inn: Tragic Love Story Ghosts

The Ancient Unicorn, Barnard Castle

The Ancient Unicorn Inn in Durham is said to be haunted by the ghost of Emma, a young woman who fell deeply in love with a local teenager named Roger. Their families were bitter rivals, running separate inns in the area. The lovers had to meet in secret, which ultimately led to tragic consequences. After one fateful meeting on the moorland, Roger contracted a serious illness and passed away a few days later. Martha was devastated by his loss and died soon after. Despite their families' initial disagreement over allowing them to be buried together, they were eventually laid to rest side by side. This heart-wrenching tale has been etched into the annals of history, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates today.

Historic Inn 18th Century
Read Full Story