The Wandering Saxon of Washington
In the rolling countryside of Washington, Sussex, a phantom Saxon warrior was once said to roam. This eerie apparition was reportedly seen wandering throughout the area, striking fear into the hearts of locals. The legend of the Wandering Saxon has been a part of local folklore for centuries, with many believing it to be the spirit of a ancient warrior. The sightings were said to have been a regular occurrence until a significant event changed everything.
Historical records suggest that the sightings of the phantom Saxon ceased after a large hoard of Saxon coins were discovered by a farmer in the area. The coins were either sold or taken by the Government, and it is believed that this event may have been connected to the disappearance of the ghostly apparition. While the exact reason for the cessation of sightings remains unclear, it is clear that the discovery of the coins marked a turning point in the history of the Wandering Saxon. The incident has been documented as a classic example of a haunting manifestation in the English countryside.
The area has a rich history dating back to the Saxon period, with many archaeological finds in the region.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Caesar's Ghostly Army
Chanctonbury Ring, Washington
Chanctonbury Ring, a sprawling ancient hillfort in the rolling Sussex countryside, is home to a multitude of ghostly apparitions. The most famous of these is Caesar, said to appear alongside an accompanying army of phantom soldiers. But that's not all - numerous people have reported catching glimpses of an elderly man with a long white beard wandering between the trees, and the sound of pounding hooves from invisible horses has also been heard. It's a place where the veil between worlds seems thin, and paranormal activity is rife.
Ghostly Footsteps Storrington
White Horse Hotel, Storrington
The White Horse Hotel in Storrington, Sussex, is home to a rather unusual ghostly presence. It's said that one of the bedrooms is haunted by the sound of shuffling footsteps, which seem to drag along the floor, accompanied by a mischievous spirit that likes to tap unsuspecting bystanders on the shoulder. The atmosphere in this particular room is said to be quite lively, with many reporting a strong sense of a presence. It's not clear what the origins of this haunting are, but it's certainly a unique experience for those who dare to stay in this room.
Gliding Old Man Apparition
Crossroads known as Buck Barn, Billingshurst
Buck Barn Crossroads, a spot nestled between Billingshurst and Hayward's Heath in Sussex, has been the site of a rather eerie phenomenon. Locals and travellers alike have reported encountering a peculiar figure, described as an old man resembling a traditional tramp or hobo. He is said to sit on a milestone by the crossroads, before gliding in front of oncoming traffic. The reports, which began in October 1947, share a common detail: when the vehicle stops, there is no sign of the figure. It's as if he vanishes into thin air.
Cissbury Ring Dragon Haunting
Cissbury Ring, Worthing
Cissbury Ring, a majestic Iron Age hillfort in Worthing, Sussex, is said to be home to a pair of snake-like dragons guarding a secret tunnel. Legend has it that this tunnel leads to a vast treasure, and it's rumoured that the ghost of a druid roams the site, searching for it. The atmosphere is tense with anticipation as the sound of phantom galloping horses echoes through the air, leaving visitors wondering if they'll stumble upon the hidden riches.
Clapham Wood Disappearances
Clapham Wood, Clapham
Clapham Wood has long been shrouded in mystery and a sense of unease. This dense woodland in Sussex has gained a reputation for containing evil, with numerous reports of strange disappearances and unidentified lights seen in and over the tree line. Locals have noticed that dogs tend to stay away from the area, often reacting badly if forced too close. In fact, a TV news story from 1975 highlighted the problem of dogs becoming confused or vanishing in the woodland, adding to the wood's mystique.
The Phantom of St Andrew's
St Andrew's Church, Steyning
St Andrew's Church in Steyning is home to a gentle, ghostly presence. Drifting amongst the headstones is a female phantom thought to be a thirteenth century lady named Milian. Her ethereal form is often seen gliding silently through the churchyard, as if lost in thought. The atmosphere is peaceful, with no reports of malevolent behaviour or disturbance.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near General area

Amberley Castle
Amberley, West Sussex

Angmering Manor Hotel
Angmering, West Sussex

The Regency Hotel
Brighton, East Sussex

Chichester Inn
Chichester, West Sussex