The Sheppard of Bampton
On a stretch of road between Bampton and Clanfield in Oxfordshire, a lone figure has been spotted by travellers down the years. This apparition, known as the Sheppard, is said to appear to solitary travellers, dressed in old-fashioned clothing, although one account claims he appeared naked. The road, rural and quiet, seems an unlikely spot for a ghostly encounter, yet numerous people have reported seeing the Sheppard.
Historical records are scarce, but it's likely the Sheppard's appearance is linked to the area's rural past. The fact that he appears to lonely travellers suggests a possible connection to the old ways and byways of the region. Some believe the Sheppard might be a benign spirit, a harbinger of good fortune or a warning to travellers. While there's no concrete evidence to support these claims, the consistency of the sightings is intriguing.
The area has a rich rural history dating back to the medieval period.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
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.
Heythrop House Haunting
Heythrop House, Heythrop
Heythrop House in Oxfordshire has a reputation for being one of the most haunted locations in the country. The story goes that back in 1831, one room in the property was said to be haunted, with staff too afraid to enter it after dark. This fear proved costly, as an unattended fire spread out of control and burned the house down to the ground. The house was later rebuilt, but the memory of that fateful event lives on.
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.
The Devil Helps Thrice
Church, Bloxham
Bloxham Church stands tall in the Oxfordshire countryside, its tower a testament to the mysterious and intriguing tale of The Devil Helps Thrice. Legend has it that three brothers commissioned the construction of this church, along with two others in the area - King's Sutton and Adderbury. One of their workers, who laboured tirelessly without rest or payment, vanished as soon as the tower was completed. The brothers were convinced that their anonymous helper was none other than Old Nick himself, a euphemism for the devil. This enigmatic event has become an integral part of the church's folklore, drawing in those fascinated by the paranormal.
Hanged Vicar of Chipping Norton
Church and surrounding area, Chipping Norton
Chipping Norton's historic church is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former vicar who met a grisly end. According to local legend, the vicar was hanged from the church tower for his part in a rebellion. His spirit is still seen walking about his parish, a poignant reminder of the tragic events that took place centuries ago. The church, with its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, is a peaceful spot, but visitors have reported feeling a sense of unease, as if they're being watched by unseen eyes.
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.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Road between town and Clanfield

Ettington Park Hotel
Alderminster, Warwickshire

Alveston Manor Hotel
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Fawsley Hall Hotel
Fawsley, Northamptonshire