The Jack O'Lantern Ghost
Deep in the Thurlton Marshes, a ghostly figure is said to roam, searching for a way home. This is the spirit of Joseph Bexfield, a local man who met his untimely demise in August 1809. His death was a tragic one, caused by a misleading Jack O'Lantern - a phenomenon now known to be burning marsh gas. The story goes that Bexfield followed the flickering light into the marshes, where he ultimately drowned. To this day, his ghost is believed to haunt the area, still seeking a path back home.
Historically, the marshes of Thurlton have been a treacherous place, especially at night. The combination of fog, gas pockets, and winding waterways made it easy for travellers to get lost. Joseph Bexfield's death in 1809 was likely one of many such accidents that occurred in the area. His haunting is characterised by sightings of a lone figure wandering the marshes, often seen in August, the month of his death. While there are no detailed witness accounts, the persistence of this ghost story suggests that many have encountered Bexfield's restless spirit over the years.
The marshes have been a source of danger for locals and travellers for centuries.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Ghostly Chase in Reedham
High Street, Reedham
Reedham village on the Norfolk Broads is home to a rather unusual ghost story. On August 21st every year, locals claim that the ghost of Old Man Bern is chased through the village by an angry mob of spirits. According to legend, Bern makes his way down High Street, pursued by his tormentors, before reaching the river and making his escape in a boat. It's said that if you're in the village on this night, you might just catch a glimpse of this spectral procession.
The Red Woman of Hardley
Small block of stone at the crossing of three roads and a dirt path, Hardley
In the quiet Norfolk village of Hardley, there's a spot where the ordinary and the paranormal intersect. At the crossroads of three roads and a dirt path, a small stone block stands sentinel, bearing witness to a phenomenon that has puzzled locals for generations. On certain nights of the year, at the stroke of midnight, a ghostly woman clad in red appears, sitting serenely on this unassuming stone. The exact dates of these apparitions remain a mystery, adding to the allure and enigma of this spectral visitor.
Cursed Stockton Stone
Stockton Stone, Stockton
Stockton Stone stands as a mysterious and ominous presence on the roads of Norfolk. This ancient stone is said to be cursed, and its dark history is marked by tragedy. When the stone was last moved to straighten the nearby road, one of the workmen dropped dead, fuelling speculation about the stone's malevolent powers. The stone remains in place, a haunting reminder of the terrible fate that befell the unfortunate workman.
The Jangling Highwayman Haunting
Road past the War Memorial, Gillingham
On a stretch of road in Gillingham, Norfolk, locals and travellers alike have reported a strange and unsettling phenomenon. As the church bells ring out, the sound of chains can be heard crossing the road, a haunting noise attributed to the ghost of a phantom highwayman. Legend has it that this spectral figure was once a robber who preyed on unsuspecting travellers making their way between Beccles and Great Yarmouth. His reign of terror eventually came to an end when he was caught, chained, and hanged for his crimes.
Golden Plough Legend
Mill Hill, Belton
Belton Common, a tranquil spot in Norfolk, is home to a fascinating piece of local legend. The Golden Plough, a story passed down through generations, revolves around a barrow once believed to contain a golden plough. This intriguing tale has captured the imagination of many, sparking curiosity about the history and potential paranormal significance of the site. While details about the legend's origins are scarce, it remains a captivating part of the area's folklore.
Golden Plough Tumulus Legend
Tumulus, Fritton
The Golden Plough Tumulus stands quietly in the Norfolk countryside, its unassuming presence belied by a rich history steeped in legend. This ancient mound has long been associated with tales of hidden treasure, specifically a golden plough said to lie within its earthy confines. While the exact date of this legend's origins remains a mystery, it has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike for centuries. The allure of the golden plough continues to draw curious minds to this enigmatic site.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Marshes
