Elm tree in an unnamed wood near the area, Shorwell

Deep in an unnamed wood near Shorwell, on the Isle of Wight, lies a mysterious legend about a chest of gold. They say it's protected by a magical black bird, and that it takes a dozen white oxen to pull it from the ground. The story has been passed down through local folklore, but the origins and details remain shrouded in mystery. What we do know is that this enigmatic tale has captured the imagination of many, and continues to intrigue those interested in the paranormal.

Waytes Court Manor, Brighstone

Waytes Court Manor stands on a site with a dark history. It's said that a group of criminals were hanged from an oak tree on the grounds, and now one of the men is believed to haunt the location. The story goes that his presence is still felt to this day, a chilling reminder of the brutal justice meted out in centuries past. The manor itself is a grand structure, but it's the eerie atmosphere and unexplained occurrences that draw visitors to this haunted site.

Stretch of coast between Atherfield and Blackgang, Atherfield

The stretch of coast between Atherfield and Blackgang on the Isle of Wight is said to be haunted by the ghost of a smuggler or possibly a shipwrecked sailor. This eerie figure is often seen walking out to sea wearing a long black jacket. It's a sighting that has left many a night fisherman scratching their heads, as they hear footsteps crossing the shingle but can't see anyone. The atmosphere is tense and foreboding, with the sound of the sea and the darkness of the night adding to the sense of unease.

Three Bishops Public House, Brighstone

The Three Bishops Public House in Brighstone, Isle of Wight, is home to a rather intriguing ghost story. Maggie, a former owner of the inn, is said to roam the premises, muttering under her breath and unlocking doors. Some claim she also appears by beds, slowly fading away into thin air. It's a curious case, with Maggie seemingly going about her business as if she's still in charge. The inn itself has a long history, previously being known as the New Inn, but it's Maggie's presence that really sets it apart.

Moortown Lane, Brighstone

Moortown Lane in Brighstone is where locals claim to have spotted a rather unusual ghostly apparition - a flying hare. This strange phenomenon is thought to have been conjured up by a cunning local smuggler, who wanted to keep curious onlookers away from his illicit activities. The story goes that the smuggler created this myth to deter people from meddling in his affairs, and it seems to have worked, at least for a while. The flying hare has become a fascinating footnote in the area's history, and those interested in the paranormal often find themselves drawn to this part of the Isle of Wight.

Billingham Manor, Billingham

Billingham Manor has a rather unsettling reputation, thanks to reports of a free-floating decapitated head seen wandering the grounds. This eerie apparition is said to have been spotted in the 1920s, and interestingly, its appearances seem to coincide with the execution of someone at Parkhurst Prison. It's not the only paranormal activity reported at the manor, as the ghost of Charles I and a monk standing near the coach house have also been sighted.