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Highwayman John Alcock's Haunted Hill

Alcocks Arbour, Temple Grafton, Warwickshire Legend Georgian

Alcock's Arbour, a hill in rural Warwickshire, is said to be haunted by the ghost of John Alcock, a notorious highwayman. Legend has it that Alcock stashed his loot in a cave beneath the hill, protected by a chest with three locks and guarded by a fierce cockerel. According to the tale, the bird will only let treasure hunters pass if they possess one of Alcock's bones. This eerie hilltop has been associated with strange occurrences and sightings for centuries, making it a fascinating destination for paranormal enthusiasts.

Historical records suggest that John Alcock was active in the area during the 17th or 18th century, preying on unsuspecting travellers and amassing a significant fortune. Another legend surrounding the hill claims that it was created by the Devil himself, who was picking nuts on Devil's Nutting Day (21 September) when he encountered the Virgin Mary. She ordered him to drop the nuts, and the hill was formed from the scattered nuts. While the stories may seem fanciful, they contribute to the rich history and mystique of Alcock's Arbour, a site that continues to captivate those interested in the paranormal.

Historical Context

17th or 18th century highwayman activity

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Hill
Activity Types
Visual Audio
Witness Credibility
Local Legend
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Present
Postcode Area
B46

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