The Man in Black Apparition
Gattles Cross, a rural spot near Sling in Gloucestershire, is home to a rather intriguing ghostly sighting. A man dressed in black has been seen lurking around this 1.5 metre tall stone, which is also known as Gattles Stone or Clearwell Meend. The apparition is said to have made appearances from the early to mid twentieth century, leaving one to wonder about the story behind this ghostly figure. Was he a traveller, a local resident, or perhaps a passerby who met an untimely demise? The mystery remains, but the image of a man in black continues to captivate those interested in the paranormal.
The history of Gattles Cross and its surrounding areas dates back centuries, with many ancient routes and pathways crisscrossing the region. It's possible that the man in black is connected to one of these old roads, perhaps a lost soul or a restless spirit. Although there's limited information on the specific circumstances of the sightings, the fact that multiple witnesses reported seeing the apparition lends credibility to the account. The lack of detailed witness statements and specific dates makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact nature of the haunting, but it undoubtedly adds to the allure of this Gloucestershire ghost story.
The area has a rich history dating back to ancient times
Location
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Nearby Haunted Places
Friendly Ghost of Miners Arms
Miners Arms Public House, Sling
The Miners Arms Public House in Sling, Gloucestershire, is home to a friendly ghost known as Elizabeth Davis, or Old Nell as she was once called. This kindly spirit has been making her presence known in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, often by moving items around the building. Patrons and staff have grown fond of her antics, which are more playful than malevolent. It's not uncommon for objects to be misplaced or reappear in strange locations, all seemingly at the behest of Elizabeth's mischievous nature.
Cloaked Figure of Clearwell Castle
Clearwell Castle, Clearwell
Clearwell Castle has a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in Gloucestershire and its connection to the paranormal was inadvertently strengthened in 1973 by none other than heavy metal legends Black Sabbath. Guitarist Tony Iommi and another band member were recording 'Sabbath Bloody Sabbath' at the castle when they spotted a cloaked figure walk into a room. Iommi, being the curious one, followed the figure to see who it was but found the room empty. This incident is often cited as evidence of a ghostly presence at the castle.
The Little Man of Coleford
Unknown building in town, Coleford
In the quaint town of Coleford, Gloucestershire, a most unusual encounter took place back in 1926. A small, man-like figure was discovered crawling around in a coal scuttle. The figure was then carefully carried out and left on the driveway, where it vanished from sight forever. This bizarre incident has become a fascinating footnote in the town's history and a talking point among locals.
Phantom Lady of Parkend
The Fountain Inn, Parkend
The Fountain Inn in Parkend, Gloucestershire, is renowned for its numerous paranormal occurrences. Guests and staff have reported a wide range of strange events, from unexplained footsteps and sightings of apparitions to poltergeist-like activity. One of the most frequently reported phenomena is the sighting of a lady with short dark hair, often seen in mirrors or reflections. Footsteps have been heard outside various rooms, and objects have moved on their own, such as a serving spoon swinging by itself in the kitchen. The inn's history of paranormal activity is so extensive that it started keeping a diary to document the events.
Ghostly Knight of Saint Briavel's
Saint Briavel's castle, Forest of Dean
Deep in the Forest of Dean, Saint Briavel's Castle stands as a testament to centuries of history. This former stronghold has been witness to a multitude of paranormal occurrences, including sightings of a ghostly figure clad in shining armour. The apparition has been spotted roaming the castle grounds and corridors, leaving many to wonder if he's the source of the disembodied footsteps echoing through the walkways. Adding to the mystique, a young child's cries have been heard in the King's Hall, a room with a dark past, where the remains of a baby were once discovered walled up.
Rising Woman of Swan Pool
Swan Pool, Redbrook
Swan Pool in Redbrook is a spot where locals claim to have seen a rather unsettling sight - a woman rising from the water, cradling a crying baby in her arms. The story goes that this poor woman and her young child were brutally murdered near the pool, and their bodies were callously thrown into the water. It's said that her spirit now haunts the area, forever trapped in a moment of unimaginable grief. Some folks also report seeing a phantom coach rattling around, with a woman peering out from the window - though this one's story is slightly different.