Mary Dore's Woodland Haunting
Deep in Mark Ash Wood, Bolderwood, a legendary ghost is said to roam. Mary Dore, a famous local witch, is believed to linger in these woods long after her death. Her spirit is known to manifest in various forms, from a hare-like creature to a beautiful woman who flirts with unsuspecting males before vanishing into thin air. The woods have a reputation for being a hotbed of paranormal activity, with some witnesses reporting a phantom with a skull-like face. It's little wonder that Mark Ash Wood has become a hotspot for ghost hunters and thrill seekers alike.
Historical records suggest that Mary Dore lived in the area during the 17th or 18th century, a time when witchcraft was often associated with rural communities. Her reputation as a witch may have led to her being ostracized by locals, and it's possible that her untimely death contributed to the restless nature of her spirit. Over the years, numerous people have reported strange occurrences in the woods, including sightings of Mary Dore in her various forms. While some have dismissed these accounts as mere fantasy, others believe that there may be some truth to the legend of Mary Dore's haunting.
17th or 18th century
Location
Location Details
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Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Mark Ash Wood

Rhinefield House Hotel
Brockenhurst, Hampshire

The Filly Inn
Setley, Hampshire

Original White Hart
Ringwood, Hampshire

Albion Hotel
Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight