Oxen Shaped Church Legend
St Andrew's church in Alfriston, Sussex, has a rather unusual origin story. Legend has it that back in the fourteenth century, four white oxen appeared on the village green, their tails all touching to form an 'x' shape. And that's exactly the shape the church was built in. It's a fascinating tale that has been passed down through the centuries, and one that still captures the imagination of visitors today. The church itself is a beautiful example of medieval architecture, with stunning stained glass windows and a peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for reflection.
The story of the oxen is a well-known local legend, and one that's steeped in history. While we don't know for certain whether the tale is true, it's clear that the church has been an important part of the community for centuries. The church has undergone various restorations and renovations over the years, but its unique shape has remained unchanged. Today, visitors can still see the church in all its glory, and ponder the story of the four white oxen that determined its layout. It's a great example of how folklore and history can become intertwined, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the area.
The church dates back to the fourteenth century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Modern Lady of Alfriston
Smugglers Inn Public House, Alfriston
The Smugglers Inn in Alfriston is a place where the past and present collide in unexpected ways. Located in the heart of this quaint Sussex village, the inn has been a favourite haunt for locals and visitors alike for centuries. But beware, for it's said that a ghostly lady in a modern gown has been seen lurking at the base of the staircase near the bar. The owner and her daughter were the first to spot her in 1994, and since then, this phantom has become a fascinating fixture in the inn's history.
The Blue Lady of Alfriston
Deans Place Hotel, Alfriston
Deans Place Hotel in Alfriston is home to a rather intriguing ghost story. A woman dressed in blue has been spotted on the landing, and locals believe she was murdered on the site. Her presence has been felt for decades, with reports of sightings dating back to the 1970s. The Blue Lady, as she's come to be known, seems to be a benign spirit, and her appearances are often described as fleeting and unsettling rather than terrifying.
The Running Hound of Alfriston
Between the Downs and Town Fields, Alfriston
Alfriston, a picturesque village nestled in the Sussex countryside, is home to a most intriguing spectral phenomenon - the Running Hound. This ghostly apparition, described as a large black dog, is said to make its way from the rolling Downs to Town Fields, where it pauses to stare over a flint wall before retreating back the way it came. The haunting occurs on full moon nights, adding to the mystique of this already captivating encounter.
Alfriston Fairy Haunting
Burlough, Alfriston
Burlow Castle in Alfriston is said to be the former home of the Little Folk, a type of fairy. Legend has it that a local man was rewarded with food by these mythical creatures after he helped one of their kind repair a kitchen utensil. This charming tale has been passed down through the centuries, leaving behind a fascinating haunting that continues to capture the imagination of paranormal enthusiasts. The castle's picturesque setting and rich history only add to the allure of this enchanting encounter.
The Tall Grey-Haired Ghost
Tuckvar' house, Alfriston
Tuckvar House in Alfriston, Sussex, is home to a rather intriguing haunting. A tall phantom lady with grey hair is said to make appearances on the stairway and has also been spotted in the larder. Her presence is quite mysterious, and one can't help but wonder what her story is. Is she a former occupant, or perhaps a relative of someone who lived there? The fact that she's seen in two different areas of the house suggests she might be searching for something, or someone.
The Long Man of Wilmington
Windover Hill, Wilmington
Perched atop Windover Hill, the Long Man of Wilmington stands sentinel, a mysterious giant cut into the soft chalk base. This towering figure, around seventy metres in height, has sparked debate over the centuries about its origins and meaning. Some say it's a representation of a legendary hero, while others believe it's a ancient marker or boundary. As the sun sets, the atmosphere around this enigmatic figure grows thick with an air of intrigue, and locals whisper about a phantom black dog said to roam the hillside.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near St Andrew's church
The Lamb Inn
Eastbourne, East Sussex
The Regency Hotel
Brighton, East Sussex
Royal Victoria Hotel
St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex