Theft and Guardian Ghost
The Black Bull Inn in Old Langho is home to a mischievous spirit known as William Dutton. This typical pub ghost is blamed for swiping small items, leaving patrons and staff scratching their heads. But Dutton's ghostly influence isn't all about theft; one story tells of the shade catching a little girl as she tripped on the stairs, preventing a nasty fall. It's a strange mix of naughty and guardian angel-like behaviour that has locals and visitors intrigued.
Situated in the heart of Lancashire, The Black Bull Inn has a long history dating back to the Victorian era. While there's no concrete evidence of William Dutton's past, his ghostly presence has been felt by many since the 2000s. Staff and customers have reported items going missing, only to reappear in strange places. Some have even caught glimpses of Dutton's elusive form. The story of him saving a child from harm has become a favourite among locals, adding a layer of complexity to this haunting.
The Black Bull Inn has been a staple in Old Langho since the Victorian era, serving as a gathering place for locals and travellers alike.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Mysterious Bouncing Beads Haunting
Cottage between village and Warton, Wrea Green
In a small cottage nestled between the village of Wrea Green and Warton, a strange and unexplained phenomenon occurred. The building was plagued by a series of bizarre noises, ranging from the sound of small beads bouncing along the floors to the smashing of crockery. What's remarkable about this haunting is that despite the alarming sounds, every time the couple living in the cottage investigated, they found nothing out of place. It was as if the disturbances were intentionally misleading, or perhaps even playing a cruel trick on the occupants.
Phantom Highwayman of Billinge
General area, Billinge
In the quiet village of Billinge, nestled in the heart of Lancashire, a legendary figure is said to ride through the streets on horseback. This ghostly apparition is believed to be the spirit of George Lyon, a notorious highwayman who once used the village as a hideout. Locals claim that his phantom form can be seen riding through the village, evoking a sense of nostalgia and intrigue. The image of a lone rider on horseback, galloping through the night, is a haunting one, and it's little wonder that this ghostly highwayman has become a local legend.
Whalley Abbey Ghost
Former abbey, Whalley
Whalley Abbey, a historic site in Lancashire, is said to be haunted by the ghost of John Paslew, a former Abbot who still drifts around the area. The abbey, now a conference centre, has a long history dating back to the medieval period. At night, when the site is empty, plainchant has been reported coming from within its walls, adding to the eerie atmosphere. This haunting manifestation has been documented since 1964, leaving many to wonder about the connection between the Abbot's presence and the mysterious singing.
Tragic Maid of Whalley
Swan Hotel, Whalley
The Swan Hotel in Whalley is home to a heartbreaking ghost story. Mary Lane, a young maid, took her own life here after being pressured into giving her child away. This tragic event has left a lasting impact on the hotel, with many reporting sightings of Mary's restless spirit. Guests and staff have experienced unexplained occurrences, from ghostly apparitions to strange noises, all hinting at Mary's presence.
Devil of Cromwell Bridge
Cromwell Bridge, Stony Hurst
Cromwell Bridge, a seemingly innocuous crossing in Stony Hurst, Lancashire, is said to be haunted by a rather malevolent presence on Christmas Day, 24 December. Locals whisper about the Devil himself, known as Old Nick, who is reputed to cross this bridge once a year. They say if he looks you straight in the eye, he'll take your soul. It's a chilling prospect that has captured the imagination of many, and people often wonder if there's any truth to this legend.
The Six Figures of Great Harwood
Council house along Burns Way, Great Harwood
In a quiet corner of Great Harwood, a small town in Lancashire, a most unusual and intriguing haunting took place back in October 1957. At a council house situated along Burns Way, residents were startled to see five shadowy figures emerge from a fireplace and cross a bedroom. Each of these diminutive figures, measuring just ninety centimetres tall, seemed to be on a mission to present a gift to a larger, darker figure seated in a chair. The mysterious figure, adorned with a crown, sat calmly as the five shadowy entities approached and then retreated back to the fireplace, their purpose seemingly fulfilled.