Duelling Knights of Blofield
The rural path leading from Blofield church to St Michael's at Braydeston in Norfolk is said to be haunted by the ghostly apparitions of two duelling knights. Sir Thomas Boleyn, father of Anne Boleyn, and Sir Thomas Paston are the knights in question, and they're known to reenact their fiery battle once a year. The knights are said to wield burning swords as they clash, and what's even more intriguing is that Lady Anne Boleyn is rumoured to watch from a nearby carriage, pulled by headless horses. This eerie spectacle has been a part of local legend for centuries, and it continues to fascinate those interested in the paranormal.
Historical records show that Sir Thomas Boleyn and Sir Thomas Paston were prominent figures in Norfolk during the 15th and 16th centuries. The exact circumstances of their legendary duel are unclear, but it's believed to have been a result of a long-standing feud between the two families. According to local lore, the duel takes place on a specific night each year, and those who claim to have witnessed it describe the scene as nothing short of breathtaking. While there's no concrete evidence to support the existence of these ghostly apparitions, the story has become an integral part of Norfolk's rich history and folklore.
The legend of the duelling knights is rooted in the history of Norfolk's prominent families during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Duel of the Two Sir Thomases
Exact area not known, Braydeston
Deep in the Norfolk countryside, a legendary duel took place between two prominent figures of the Tudor period - Sir Thomas Paston and Sir Thomas Boleyn. The exact spot remains a mystery, but locals claim that on certain evenings, the sound of clashing steel and the cries of the two Sir Thomases can still be heard echoing through the rolling hills. It's said that Sir Thomas Boleyn emerged victorious, striking down his opponent in a fierce and fatal blow.
Bishop's Blessing Barge
River, Brundall
Brundall's mystical river waters are home to a most unusual and intriguing sighting. On certain dates throughout the year, a grand barge is said to glide effortlessly upstream, its 28 rowers working in unison as they propel the vessel forward. The barge itself is a vision of opulence, draped in fine cloth and silk, with the Bishop at its helm. According to local legend, the Bishop's presence is a blessing to any ill people he passes, imbuing the scene with an air of serenity and peace.
The Faceless Man of Acle
A47, Acle
On the A47 in Acle, Norfolk, a chilling sighting has been reported by multiple motorists. A figure clad in green, with no face to speak of, has been seen standing on the side of the road. Drivers have had to slam on their brakes to avoid hitting the apparition, only to have it vanish into thin air. This unsettling phenomenon has become known as the Faceless Man of Acle, or alternatively, the Acle Straight haunting.
Ghostly Patron of Ferry House
Ferry House inn Inn, Surlingham
Ferry House Inn in Surlingham is home to a rather intriguing ghost story. They say that a man and his loyal dog roam the inn's premises, but their presence isn't malevolent. In fact, it's quite the opposite. This ghostly duo seems to take it upon themselves to tidy up any half-finished glasses of beer left out overnight. It's as if they're ensuring that nothing goes to waste, not even in the afterlife.
Mysterious Church Organ Music
St Mary's Church, Hassingham
St Mary's Church in Hassingham stands quietly in the Norfolk countryside, its ancient stones bearing witness to centuries of history. On one ordinary morning, a family stopped by the church during an early drive, drawn in by the sound of organ music drifting through the air. They listened for several minutes, intrigued, before deciding to enter. But as they pushed open the front door, the music abruptly stopped. An eerie silence fell over the church, and despite a thorough search, they found no one inside to account for the haunting melody.
Claxton Brown Cat Sighting
Exact location not known, Claxton
Claxton, a small village in Norfolk, is where a rather unusual sighting took place back in 1996. On June 9th of that year, residents and possibly visitors were startled by the appearance of a large brown cat with an otherworldly aura. Described as an alien cat, this creature was unlike any ordinary feline you'd expect to see roaming the countryside. Its unusual appearance left onlookers perplexed, wondering if they had truly seen what they thought they had.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Path leading from Blofield church to St Michael's at Braydeston
