The Old Lady of Porlock
The Ship Inn in Porlock, Somerset, is home to a rather intriguing phantom - a benign old lady. While there's little information on when these sightings first began or exactly what time of day they occur, the presence of this ghostly figure has been acknowledged by numerous patrons and staff. Described as harmless, she seems to be a comforting rather than a terrifying presence. Guests and locals alike have reported catching glimpses of her, and it's thought that her existence may be tied to the rich history of the inn itself.
Dating back to the 16th century, The Ship Inn has a long and storied past, having served as a refuge for weary travelers and a hub for local gossip. The identity of the old lady remains a mystery, but her association with the inn is well documented. Over the years, several people have reported seeing her, and while there's no concrete evidence to explain her presence, it's believed she may have been a former resident or a regular visitor who has lingered. The fact that she's described as benign suggests a peaceful end to her life, which might be connected to the inn in some significant way.
The Ship Inn has been in operation since the 16th century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
The Three Seamen of Porlock Weir
Marsh Field, Porlock Weir
Marsh Field in Porlock Weir holds a haunting secret. This windswept field, past the dock, is home to the graves of three seamen who met their fate in the 1700s. Their bodies, washed up on the shore, were buried here, and it's said that their restless spirits still roam the area. Locals and visitors have reported seeing three waterlogged figures walking near the field, a sight that's both eerie and fascinating. The graves themselves may be run down, but the presence of these ghostly seamen is still strongly felt.
Porlock Ghost Horses
Road leading downhill to the town, Porlock
The Hill Road in Porlock, Somerset, is a spot where the past seems to come alive in a rather eerie way. It's said that on certain occasions, the sound of horses' hooves and panicked neighing can be heard echoing down the hill, particularly around the tight bend that has witnessed a tragic event. These weren't just any horses; they were part of a coach that lost control many years ago, resulting in the horses' untimely demise. The haunting manifestation is a re-enactment of their final moments, a spectral occurrence that has piqued the interest of many, especially those drawn to the paranormal.
Naked Pixies of Porlock
Meadows around area, Porlock Vale
Deep in the heart of Porlock Vale, Somerset, a peculiar phenomenon has been reported for centuries. The Naked Pixies, as they're known, are said to congregate in the meadows around their fires, clad in nothing at all. If a human were to stumble upon this mystical gathering, they'd be in for a wild ride. According to local lore, the pixies would cast a spell on the unsuspecting voyeur, forcing them to dance and run frantically through the woodland until the sun rose. It's a curious case of fairy folklore that's been passed down through the generations, leaving many to wonder if there's any truth to the tale.
The Whit Stones Legend
Whitstones, Porlock
Nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset, the Whit Stones stand as a testament to the region's rich history and folklore. This cluster of ancient stones has been the subject of local legend for centuries, with tales of a hurling contest between Dr Foster and the Devil being one of the most enduring. According to myth, the stones were thrown into position by the participants, leaving behind a fascinating piece of paranormal history that continues to captivate visitors to this day.
Porlock Church Pirate Ghost
Church area, Porlock
Porlock's historic church is said to be haunted by the ghost of a local pirate named Lucott. He returned as a ghost soon after his burial, causing quite a stir in the community. Twelve priests attempted to banish him but were unsuccessful. It took a clever priest from Watchet to outwit the pirate ghost. The priest engaged Lucott in a game of wit and, upon winning, forced the ghost into an iron box which was then cast out to sea. This unusual tale has become a fascinating part of local folklore.
Headless Coachman of Bossington
Roads in the area, Bossington
In the sleepy Somerset village of Bossington, a spine-tingling sighting has been reported on the local roads. A phantom coach and horses, driven by a headless coachman, has been seen careening through the area. The entity is said to vanish just after passing the viewer, leaving onlookers shaken and bewildered. This eerie apparition is steeped in mystery, with many questions surrounding its origins and purpose.