Bungay's Deadly Storm Dog
St Mary's Church in Bungay is home to one of the most bizarre and terrifying ghost stories in English folklore. On a stormy night in 1577, a black dog appeared inside the church, causing chaos and destruction. The dog, which has become known as the Lightning Dog or Shuck, was said to have killed several people during its rampage. Some believe that the dog still patrols the area, striking fear into the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The events of that fateful night in 1577 are well-documented in local records. On August 4th of that year, a severe storm swept through the area, causing widespread damage and disruption. It was during this storm that the black dog appeared in St Mary's Church, wreaking havoc and claiming several lives. The incident has been linked to a similar event in nearby Blythburgh, where a ghostly dog was also reported on the same night. While the true nature of the Lightning Dog remains a mystery, its legend has endured for centuries, captivating the imagination of paranormal enthusiasts and locals alike.
The incident occurred during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
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Nearby Haunted Places
Creaking Ghost of Bungay
King's Head Public House, Bungay
The King's Head Public House in Bungay, Suffolk, is a place where the old and the eerie blend together. It's here that people have reported strange creaks and groans, sounds that could easily be dismissed as the usual settling of an old building, but in this case, they might just be something more. Could it be that the ghost from the nearby Three Tuns has relocated, or are these creaks simply the price of years of history? Whatever the reason, the atmosphere inside the King's Head is undeniably charged with a sense of the unexplained.
Phantom Coach and Horses
Road between Ditchingham and Bungay at Lions Grave, Bungay
On a stretch of road between Ditchingham and Bungay in Suffolk, a rather unusual ghostly sighting has been reported by at least one driver. A coach with a team of horses is said to haunt this rural road, seemingly charging at incoming traffic before turning away at the last possible moment. The apparition is often described as being quite sudden and unexpected, leaving drivers to wonder if they really did see what they think they did. One version of the tale says the coach is either seen or heard, but never both - adding to the mystery and confusion.
Greyfriars Priory Chanting Ghost
Greyfriars Priory, Bungay
Deep in the heart of Bungay, Suffolk, lies the ancient Greyfriars Priory, a site steeped in history and paranormal activity. It's here that numerous people have reported hearing the eerie sound of plainchant, accompanied by the faint ringing of long-gone bells. The haunting atmosphere of the priory's ruins seems to be the perfect backdrop for these unexplained occurrences, leaving many to wonder if the spirits of former monks still linger, their devotions echoing through the centuries.
Bungay's Ghostly Highwayman Haunting
Ye Olde Three Tuns Public House, Bungay
Ye Olde Three Tuns Public House in Bungay is said to be one of the most haunted places in Suffolk. This old inn has been a local favourite for centuries, but its history is steeped in paranormal activity. Back in 1969, a medium conducted an investigation and uncovered a staggering 24 ghosts, including the mischievous spirit of Rex Bacon, an 18th-century highwayman who allegedly used the inn as his base of operations. The presence of so many restless souls has led to numerous reports of ghostly encounters over the years.
Bungay Castle Ghostly Apparition
Bungay castle, Bungay
Bungay Castle stands tall in the Suffolk countryside, its stone walls bearing witness to centuries of history. One of its most intriguing residents is the ghost of Hugh Bigod, a 12th-century nobleman who met his downfall after taking part in a failed rebellion against the king. Bigod was forced to pay a hefty fine to keep his beloved castle, a burden that seems to have weighed heavily on his spirit. His resentment still lingers, manifesting as a black dog or the eerie presence of a disgruntled shade.
Bungay Castle Shuck Haunting
Bungay castle, Bungay
Bungay Castle stands as a testament to the region's rich history and paranormal activity. This ruined castle is believed by some to be the headquarters of Old Shuck, a legendary ghostly figure said to roam these parts. Locals and visitors alike have reported strange occurrences and sightings at night, making it a place best avoided after dark. The castle's eerie atmosphere and dark history have cemented its reputation as a hub for paranormal activity.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near St Mary's church

The Scole Inn
Scole, Norfolk

The Maid's Head
Norwich, Norfolk

The Crown
Framlingham, Suffolk