Cloaked Figures of Banwell Abbey
Banwell Abbey has been home to some pretty strange goings-on over the years. Imagine being a kid and having a mysterious figure stroll into your bedroom at night, helping you get rid of your dinner. That's what one poor youngster experienced back in the 1960s. The figure was reportedly cloaked, and it seemed to be able to move about the abbey freely, leaving behind a trail of phantom footfalls in the hallways. It's a story that's been told and retold, leaving many to wonder what's really going on within those ancient walls.
The history of Banwell Abbey dates back to the 12th century, and it's possible that the cloaked figures are connected to the many monks who once called this place home. Over the years, there have been numerous reports of these ghostly figures moving about the abbey, often seen in the hallways and corridors. One witness recalled a particularly vivid experience as a child, when a cloaked figure led him across his bedroom at night and helped him throw up - he was suffering from an illness at the time. The abbey's long history and connections to the past make it the perfect place for these kinds of paranormal sightings.
Banwell Abbey was founded in the 12th century and has a rich history spanning over 800 years.
Location
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Nearby Haunted Places
Banwell Blown Cross Haunting
Hillfort, Banwell
Perched atop a hill in Banwell, Somerset, lies the ancient Blown Cross, a site steeped in local legend and paranormal intrigue. The story goes that villagers attempted to erect a massive cross here, but their efforts were thwarted night after night by the mischievous Old Nick, or Devil himself, who would blow it down. Frustrated but determined, the villagers eventually carved the cross into stone, effectively outsmarting the Devil and ensuring the cross's survival. Today, it's believed that this cross may have served as the base of a Roman hillfort, adding a layer of historical depth to its already fascinating narrative.
Banwell Beast Encounter
Banwell Hill, Banwell
Banwell Hill has been the site of a bizarre encounter that has left many questions unanswered. In September 2007, Helen Stokes was walking her dog when they came face to face with a large black creature that she described as 'very fast'. Both Stokes and her pet made a swift exit, understandably spooked by the sudden appearance of this mysterious beast. The creature's speed and size have been the subject of much speculation, with some wondering if it could be a misidentified known animal or something more extraordinary.
Midsummer Night Stone Dance
Wimblestone, Shipham
In the rolling hills of Wimblestone, a mysterious monolith stands guard over a treasure trove of legend. This large stone, situated in a field near Shipham, is said to dance on Midsummer Night when the full moon shines bright. As it moves, a hole is left in the earth, revealing a glimpse of the treasure within. The locals have long been fascinated by this enigmatic stone, and its magical properties have become an integral part of Somerset folklore.
Ghosts of Locking Manor
Manor House, Locking
Locking Manor House stands as a testament to the region's rich history, its grounds now home to a most unsettling presence. The ghostly apparition of Sir John Plumley, a man who met his demise by hanging for his involvement in the Monmouth revolt, is said to roam the estate. His loyal canine companion is often seen by his side, a poignant reminder of the tragic events that unfolded. The sorrowful tale doesn't end there; Sir John's wife, overcome with grief, took her own life following his execution. Her spirit is also known to make appearances, a fleeting glimpse of a woman driven to desperation.
Axbridge Hanged Trio Ghosts
Shute Shelve Hill, Axbridge
Shute Shelve Hill in Axbridge, Somerset, is a place where the past lingers, quite literally. This hill, also known as Hanging Field, is said to be haunted by the ghosts of three individuals, two men and a woman, who met a grisly end. They were hanged for the murder of the woman's husband, a crime that shocked the local community. The exact date of their execution is unknown, but the brutality of their crime and the severity of their punishment have left an indelible mark on the location.
Ghostly Coach of Pawlett
Roads in the village, Pawlett
In the sleepy village of Pawlett, Somerset, a bizarre and intriguing haunting has been reported. The ghostly team of horses pulling a coach are said to travel aimlessly in the neighbourhood, their ethereal presence sparking curiosity and unease among locals and visitors alike. While there's no record of a specific incident or date, the legend of this phantom coach has endured, leaving many to wonder about its origins and purpose.