Vanishing Dog of Hempnall
In the sleepy Norfolk village of Hempnall, a bizarre incident has been reported on Market Hole, a rural road that winds its way through the countryside. A cyclist, travelling along this stretch, was startled when a dog suddenly darted out in front of him. He braced himself for impact, but as he did, the dog vanished into thin air. A quick search of the area revealed no sign of the creature, leaving the cyclist shaken and wondering if he had really seen what he thought he had.
This strange encounter is classified as a Shuck, a type of ghostly apparition often associated with dogs. The incident occurred at some point in the twentieth century, although the exact date is unknown. The fact that the dog seemingly vanished into nothingness has led to speculation about the nature of this apparition, with some theorising that it may be a manifestation of a former pet or a stray that met a tragic end in the area. While the true explanation remains a mystery, the Vanishing Dog of Hempnall remains a fascinating and unexplained phenomenon.
The area has a long history dating back to the medieval period, with many old roads and pathways crisscrossing the countryside.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Fritton Haunted House Footsteps
Isolated house, Fritton
Deep in Norfolk's countryside, the small village of Fritton is home to a reportedly haunted house that has left one woman shaken to her core. Imagine being in your own home, only to be met with unexplained tapping sounds and disembodied footsteps that seem to be coming from nowhere. For several days, a woman endured this unsettling experience, but things took a dark turn when invisible hands tried to pull her out of bed. It was then that she knew she had to escape, and flee she did.
Fritton Woods Elongated Entities
Fritton Woods, Fritton
Deep in Fritton Woods, a couple had a rather unsettling encounter one summer evening in July 1997. As they sat in their car, they were startled by two strange, dark human-like creatures. The entities were quite tall and had elongated necks and long hands, giving them an otherworldly appearance. When the couple started their car and turned on the headlights, the creatures vanished behind a tree, leaving the witnesses shaken.
Hyter Sprite Fairy Sightings
Area around Hempnall and Topcroft, Hempnall
In the rolling countryside around Hempnall and Topcroft, a sprinkle of magic and mystery has long been reported. This area has been home to the Hyter Sprites, a type of fairy known for their mischievous and elusive nature. Said to resemble little people, these mythical creatures have captivated the imagination of locals and visitors alike. While there's no concrete evidence to pinpoint the exact date or time of these sightings, the folklore surrounding the Hyter Sprites has endured for generations.
Ghostly Lovers of Rainthorpe
Rainthorpe, Tasburgh
Rainthorpe Hall in Tasburgh, Norfolk, is home to a poignant and romantic ghostly encounter. On the evening of 8 September, a ghostly pair is said to appear in the gardens of the hall. According to local legend, the pair are Amy Robsart and either her half-brother John Appleyard or her husband Robert Dudley. The date of their manifestation coincides with the day Amy died after falling down the staircase at Cumnor Place. This tragic event has led to numerous sightings of the ghostly couple over the years, with many reporting a strong sense of sadness and longing.
Cromwell's Boyland Hall Ghost
Boyland Hall, Morningthorpe
Boyland Hall, a grand but now demolished country house in Morningthorpe, Norfolk, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Oliver Cromwell. This phantom apparition, reportedly seen on the staircase, is linked to a rumoured affair with a former occupier of the hall. Cromwell, the Lord Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland, has a well-documented history but this particular tale adds a personal and intriguing dimension to his legacy.
Phantom Coach of Long Stratton
General area, Long Stratton
In the sleepy Norfolk parish of Long Stratton, a spine-tingling sight has been reported for generations - a phantom coach rattling through the countryside. At its helm is the ghost of Old Hutch, a figure shrouded in mystery. Legend has it that Old Hutch is the spirit of Edmund Reve, a local dignitary whose tomb can be found in the nearby St Mary's Church. As the story goes, his restless soul is doomed to drive this spectral carriage for eternity, its presence striking fear into the hearts of locals.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Market Hole

The Maid's Head
Norwich, Norfolk

The Scole Inn
Scole, Norfolk

The Crown
Framlingham, Suffolk