The Black Toby Haunting
Toby's Walks in Blythburgh, Suffolk, is a spot where the past seems to linger, and one ghostly figure has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. They call him Black Toby, a drummer in the army who, according to local legend, became so drunk one night that he left the local public house to commit a heinous crime. Anne Blakemore was the alleged victim, but her body showed no signs of foul play. The mob, however, was keen on justice, and Toby was hanged for his supposed crime. It's said that his ghost roams the area, either driving a coach pulled by four black horses or walking and banging his drum in regret.
Historical records suggest that the legend of Black Toby might have been fabricated by local smugglers to deter others from investigating their activities. This would imply that the haunting is more of a myth than a documented paranormal event. However, the persistence of the legend and the various accounts of sightings and experiences contribute to the allure of this haunted location. Some claim to have seen Toby's ghostly figure, while others report hearing the sound of a drum or seeing a coach and horses. The truth behind the legend remains unclear, but it undoubtedly adds to the mystique of Toby's Walks.
The legend of Black Toby dates back to the 18th century, a time of smuggling and lawlessness in the Suffolk area.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Blythburgh Church Shuck Haunting
Church, Blythburgh
Blythburgh's historic church has stood for centuries, its stone walls bearing witness to the village's rich history. But on one fateful day in 1577, a dramatic interruption shook the congregation. A large black dog, described as a Shuck, burst into the church during a service, causing chaos and destruction. The creature's presence was so intense that it left blackened scorch marks on the church door, still visible today. This unexplained event has become a notorious part of the church's folklore, with many wondering what sparked the sudden appearance of this mysterious canine.
Blythburgh Priory Footsteps
Priory, Blythburgh
Blythburgh Priory stands tall in the Suffolk countryside, its ancient stones bearing witness to centuries of history. But it's not just the building's rich past that draws visitors - it's the unexplained occurrences that have been reported within its grounds. Animals are said to be terrified of certain spots, as if some unseen presence sends them scurrying for cover. And then there are the footsteps - soft, quiet footsteps that seem to emanate from nowhere and everywhere at the same time. They've been heard outside the doors of the priory, but whenever investigators go to check, they find no one there.
The White Woman of Westwood Lodge
Westwood Lodge, Blythburgh
Westwood Lodge in Blythburgh, Suffolk, is said to be haunted by the ghostly apparition of a woman in silk. Locals have reported seeing a ghostly figure in the area, sparking curiosity and intrigue among paranormal enthusiasts. The story goes that back in the 1970s, three policemen set up an ambush to catch evidence of the ghost, but despite strange sounds, they saw nothing. Yet, the sightings continued, leaving many to wonder about the identity and story behind this elusive white woman.
The Knocking Ghost of Blythburgh
White Hart Public House, Blythburgh
The White Hart Public House in Blythburgh, Suffolk, is home to a rather unusual and unexplained phenomenon. Patrons and staff have reported hearing loud knocking sounds emanating from the stout oak door of the pub, with no one on either side to account for the noise. This strange occurrence has been documented as happening during the mid to late twentieth century, leaving many to wonder about the cause and origin of these mysterious knocks.
The Lady in Silver
Ruins of Westwood Lodge, Wenhaston
Deep in the Suffolk countryside, the ruined Westwood Lodge stands as a testament to the region's rich history. It's here that a ghostly figure has been spotted - a woman dressed in a long, flowing silver gown. They say she's one of many spirits that haunt this area, rumoured to be a site where witchcraft is still practised. The atmosphere is certainly eerie, with the lodge's crumbling walls and overgrown surroundings seeming to whisper secrets to those who dare to venture near.
Anne Blakemore's Ghostly Apparition
B1125 Blythburgh to Westleton road, Blythburgh
On a stretch of road in Suffolk known locally as the Five Finger Post, a chilling phenomenon has been reported by numerous drivers. It's here that the ghost of Anne Blakemore is said to appear, particularly around June 24th, the date of her alleged murder in 1750. Those who claim to have seen her describe a fleeting glimpse of a woman in blue, who suddenly darts out in front of their vehicle, giving the terrifying impression that they've just run over a living person.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Toby's Walks

