Devil's Oak Legend
Deep in Savernake Forest, a centuries-old tree known as the Big Bellied Oak stands tall, shrouded in an aura of mystery and fear. This ancient oak has been the focal point of a bizarre legend, which claims that running around the tree seven or twelve times at midnight can conjure the Devil himself. The origins of this strange ritual are unclear, but its association with the Big Bellied Oak has become an integral part of local folklore, drawing thrill-seekers and curiosity-driven visitors to the forest.
Historical records of the Big Bellied Oak are scarce, but it's believed to have been a sacred site in pagan times. The ritual of running around the tree, often referred to as 'Evocation via Tree', has been passed down through generations, with some claiming it's a test of courage, while others see it as a reckless invitation to malevolent forces. Although there's no concrete evidence to support the claims of demonic apparitions, the Big Bellied Oak remains a source of fascination for those interested in the paranormal and local legends.
The Big Bellied Oak is believed to have been a sacred site in pagan times.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Cadley Black Dog Haunting
Fields between village and Marlborough, Cadley
The rolling hills and fields between Cadley and Marlborough in Wiltshire are said to be haunted by a mysterious black dog. This phantom canine is known as a Shuck, a type of ghostly dog that has been reported in various parts of England. The black dog is said to roam the fields, its presence striking fear into the hearts of locals and travellers alike. While there's no record of any specific sightings or encounters, the legend of the black dog has endured, adding to the area's rich history of paranormal activity.
Headless Girl of Savernake
Savernake Forest, Marlborough
Deep in the heart of Savernake Forest, a spine-tingling legend has been galloping through the trees for centuries. They say a young girl, riding her horse at breakneck speed, lost her head to a low-hanging branch. Now, her ghostly, headless form is said to haunt these very woods, searching for something or someone. Some claim to have spotted a large black dog and a white deer roaming the forest alongside her, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
Mildenhall Black Dog Haunting
Earthworks around Folly Farm, Mildenhall
Folly Farm near Mildenhall in Wiltshire is home to a long-standing legend about a dark hound known as the Black Dog. This eerie canine is said to roam the ancient earthworks that surround the farm, an area steeped in history dating back to Roman times. The earthworks are believed to be the remnants of a former Roman camp, and it's here that the Black Dog is thought to have originated. Locals have reported catching glimpses of this ghostly creature, which is often associated with the supernatural and the afterlife.
The Black Cat of Marlborough
Marlborough section of the Wansdyke, Marlborough
Marlborough's rolling hills and winding roads have witnessed their fair share of strange occurrences. One such incident involved a woman walking her dog near Wernham Farm in July 2003. As she strolled along the Marlborough section of the Wansdyke, a large black cat suddenly appeared, locking eyes with her before slowly disappearing into the distance. The encounter was brief yet unsettling, leaving the witness to ponder the identity of the mysterious feline.
Marlborough Highwayman Ghost Ride
General area, Marlborough
In the rolling hills of Marlborough, Wiltshire, a ghostly presence is said to ride through the countryside. The spirit of a highwayman is rumoured to haunt this area, and although sightings are rare, his ghostly horse and rider are more likely to be heard than seen. Locals claim that the sound of hooves on the ground can be heard as the highwayman follows the route of a road that no longer exists.
Manton's Headless Dog Shuck
House, Manton
In the quaint village of Manton, Wiltshire, there's a tale of a rather unsettling ghostly apparition known as the Headless Dog. This spectral hound was said to haunt a house along Preshute Lane, a location now sadly demolished. The dog's ghostly form was distinguished by its lack of a head, but it was the dragging of a chain from its neck on the floor that produced the only sound, a haunting noise that must have sent shivers down the spines of those unfortunate enough to encounter it. Interestingly, the owner of the property where the ghostly dog appeared was not afraid of the entity, a fact that adds a layer of intrigue to this already fascinating paranormal account.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Oak in Savernake Forest
