Heythrop House Haunting
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.
The events of 1831 were a turning point for Heythrop House, which had previously been a grand estate. The original building had been rebuilt, and it's thought that the haunting may have been a contributing factor to its downfall. Although there's no concrete evidence of what actually happened in that haunted room, it's clear that the staff were terrified of it. Their fear may have been rooted in superstition, but it ultimately led to disaster.
The original Heythrop House was built in the 18th century
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
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.
The Sheppard of Bampton
Road between town and Clanfield, 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.
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.
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.
Burning Witches of Chadlington
Hawk Stone, Chadlington
Hawk Stone stands sentinel in the Oxfordshire countryside, its rugged presence a testament to the region's rich history. This ancient stone has been the subject of local legend for centuries, with tales of witchcraft and burning persecution. According to folklore, a chain would be passed through the eye hole in the stone, allowing witches to be held and subsequently burnt at the site. While the stone itself remains, the gruesome practices of the past are now a dark relic of a bygone era.
Wychwood Bear Sighting
Wychwood area, Charlbury
Deep in the Wychwood area of Oxfordshire, a strange creature was said to have made its home in the surrounding woodland back in the early 1990s. This mysterious beast was described as being dark brown and roughly the size of a sheepdog. Although there's no concrete evidence to prove its existence, the creature's alleged footprints were discovered in the woods, sparking curiosity and debate among locals and cryptozoology enthusiasts alike.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Heythrop House

Ettington Park Hotel
Alderminster, Warwickshire

Alveston Manor Hotel
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire