The Returning Stone Legend
The Hoar Stone in Steeple Barton, Oxfordshire, is home to a bizarre and intriguing legend. This ancient stone, now broken into fragments, has a strange history of defying human intervention. A farmer, attempting to put an end to the stone's supposed supernatural reputation, broke it up and removed the pieces. However, it is said that the fragments mysteriously rolled back into position on their own accord, reconstituting the stone in its original form.
Dating back to the prehistoric era, the Hoar Stone is a significant archaeological find. This type of megalith is often associated with ancient rituals and burial grounds. While there are no documented witness accounts of the stone's supernatural activity, the legend of the Returning Stone has been passed down through local folklore. The stone's ability to seemingly reassemble itself has led many to speculate about its connection to the paranormal. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the Hoar Stone remains a fascinating example of England's rich history of mysterious and unexplained phenomena.
The Hoar Stone dates back to the prehistoric era, with similar megaliths found throughout the UK.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Steeple Aston Hotel Ghost Haunting
The Holt Hotel, Steeple Aston
The Holt Hotel in Steeple Aston has a long history of ghostly activity, with sightings of the notorious Highwayman Claude Duval. Guests and staff have reported seeing his ghostly figure in the bar and guest rooms, often accompanied by strange noises and cold spots. Some claim to have seen glasses flying off shelves, while others have heard creepy, choking sounds. It's said that Highwayman Duval likes to frequent Room 3, where he may still be enjoying his ill-gotten gains.
Murdered Landlord Ghost
Hopcroft's Holt Hotel, Steeple Aston
Hopcroft's Holt Hotel in Steeple Aston is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former landlord who was brutally murdered on the premises, along with his wife. The circumstances of their deaths are shrouded in mystery, but it's believed that they were victims of a violent crime. Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences and sightings, including the apparition of a man thought to be the murdered landlord. His presence is often accompanied by a feeling of unease and discomfort, as if the atmosphere in the hotel is still affected by the tragic events of the past.
Phantom Coach of Great Tew
General area, Great Tew
Great Tew village in Oxfordshire is said to be haunted by the ghostly apparition of Sir Lawrence Tanfield and his wife Lady Tanfield, who are believed to revisit the area in their phantom coach. This eerie spectacle is part of a larger pattern of paranormal activity attributed to the Tanfields, who reportedly visited several locations in Oxfordshire before being banished. The village of Great Tew is one of the places where their ghostly coach has been spotted.
Deddington Vicarage Haunting
Vicarage, Deddington
The Deddington Vicarage in Oxfordshire is said to be haunted by a mischievous presence. Bed springs sounded with no one present, clocks would wind themselves, and one man claimed a phantom hand materialised in the drawing room. These strange occurrences took place in the 1960s, leaving residents and visitors alike scratching their heads. What could be causing these unexplained events? Is it a restless spirit or a case of mass hysteria? The truth remains a mystery.
Deddington Church Choir Ghost
Church, Deddington
Deddington's St Mary's Church is home to a most unusual and intriguing haunting. Villagers have reported hearing the unmistakable sounds of a church organ and a choir singing hymns, only to find the building empty and quiet when they enter. The eerie atmosphere of this phenomenon has left many wondering about the origins of this ghostly choir.
Petrified Man of Enstone
Hoar Stone, Enstone
Deep in Oxfordshire's rolling hills lies the Hoar Stone, a mysterious site steeped in local legend. This ancient spot features three standing stones, said to represent a man, his loyal dog, and his trusty horse. As Midsummer Eve approaches, an eerie phenomenon is said to occur - the larger stone, believed to be the petrified man, is rumoured to wander down to the village stream. This strange event has been etched into the annals of local folklore, drawing curiosity seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike to the Hoar Stone.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Hoar Stone
