The White Doe Legend
Knepp Castle in West Grinstead is said to be haunted by a rather unusual ghost - a white doe. This albino creature is steeped in local legend and is believed to be the spirit of a fair maiden who was transformed into a deer by an evil witch back in the 1400s. The story goes that the witch cast a spell on the young woman, condemning her to roam the castle grounds as a white doe. Locals have reported catching glimpses of the ghostly creature over the years, often describing it as a fleeting, eerie presence.
Historical records suggest that Knepp Castle has been the site of various supernatural occurrences over the centuries. While there's no concrete evidence to support the existence of the white doe, the legend has become an integral part of local folklore. The castle itself has a rich history dating back to the Norman Conquest, and it's possible that the legend of the white doe has evolved over time through a combination of myth and hearsay. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the white doe remains a popular figure in local legend, with many visitors to the castle claiming to have caught a glimpse of the ghostly creature.
Knepp Castle was built in the 12th century and has a long history of ownership changes and restorations.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Adele's Haunted Lock House
Lock House, Partridge Green
Lock House in Partridge Green has got a reputation for being one of the most haunted houses in Sussex. It's a former convent with a history that stretches back centuries. Singer Adele moved in, but she didn't stay long. She reportedly heard strange things at night and even compared one area of the property to the film The Shining. It got to the point where she hired a bodyguard, but still ended up moving away just six months after arriving.
The Green Man Ghost Cat
Green Man Public House, Partridge Green
The Green Man Public House in Partridge Green is home to a rather unusual ghost - a cat. This feline phantom probably has a connection to the kettle that once turned itself on in a room devoid of human life. While the exact date and time of this incident are unknown, it's clear that the Green Man has a reputation for being haunted by a mischievous presence. The story of the ghost cat has become a popular part of the pub's folklore, with many visitors curious about the strange occurrences that have taken place here.
The Vanishing Couple of Brighton
Old Ship Public House, Brighton
Imagine walking into a room at the Old Ship Public House, thinking you're alone, and then suddenly you're face to face with a couple - only for them to vanish into thin air. That's exactly what happened to a maid who entered one of the west wing rooms, which she thought was empty. She was about to apologise when the man and woman sitting on the bed disappeared before her eyes. It's a strange and unsettling experience that has left many wondering about the history of this Brighton pub.
War Ghosts of Cowfold
Monastery, Cowfold
Cowfold Monastery in Sussex has a spine-tingling secret. During World War II, this historic site was used as a base for soldiers, but it seems they weren't the only ones in residence. Certain areas of the monastery were said to unsettle the guard dogs, who would get spooked for no apparent reason. The military men themselves weren't too keen on investigating these strange occurrences, perhaps sensing that they were in for a fright.
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.
Cowfold Dark Figure Sighting
A272 just off mini roundabout towards Bolney, Cowfold
On a stretch of road in Cowfold, West Sussex, a driver had a startling encounter on the night of 5 May 2021. As they were driving along the A272, just off the mini roundabout towards Bolney, they spotted a dark figure suddenly run into the road. The driver quickly swerved to avoid it, and in doing so, the figure vanished into thin air. This bizarre incident left the driver shaken and wondering if they had really seen what they thought they had.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Knepp Castle

Amberley Castle
Amberley, West Sussex

Angmering Manor Hotel
Angmering, West Sussex

The Regency Hotel
Brighton, East Sussex