The Headless Coach Driver
On the A345 heading towards Marlborough in Wiltshire, a rather unsettling sighting has been reported by numerous travellers. A coach and four, driven by a headless figure, is said to travel along this stretch of road. The image is a haunting one - a horse-drawn carriage, typically associated with a bygone era, careening down the road with no one at the reins, or so it would seem. The driver, or rather, the lack of one, is what sends shivers down the spines of those who claim to have seen it.
Historical records are scarce, but it's likely that this ghostly procession dates back to the Victorian era, a time when horse-drawn carriages were a common mode of transport. Some believe the headless driver may be a former coachman who met a grisly end on this very road. While there's no concrete evidence to support this theory, the consistency of witness accounts suggests that something unusual is indeed occurring here. Travellers have reported seeing the coach and four at various times, with some even claiming to have heard the sound of horses' hooves and rattling carriage wheels.
The A345 has been in use since the 18th century, with horse-drawn carriages being a common sight during the Victorian era.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Wilcot Church Ghostly Apparition
Church, Wilcot
In the quaint village of Wilcot, nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, stands a church with a remarkable ghost story. It's here that the Archdeacon was briefly seen by his daughter shortly after his death, standing behind another clergyman giving communion. This poignant encounter has been etched in the memories of the local community for generations. The apparition, described as a post-mortem manifestation, offers a fascinating glimpse into the mysterious realm of the paranormal.
The Returning Giant Legend
Giant's Grave barrow, Oare
Deep in the Wiltshire countryside lies the Giant's Grave barrow, a mysterious ancient monument steeped in local legend. This enigmatic site is said to be the final resting place of a giant, and if you're feeling brave, you can test the legend for yourself. The story goes that if you run around the barrow seven times, the giant buried within shall return. It's a claim that's impossible to verify, but one that adds to the allure of this intriguing site.
Wilcot's Forlorn Lady Ghost
General area, Wilcot
In the quiet village of Wilcot, a tragic tale of love, betrayal, and heartbreak has unfolded into a haunting that still sends shivers down the spines of locals. Anne Wroughton, a woman wronged by her husband's jealous accusations, met a tragic end on a cold winter's night. Her husband, convinced of her infidelity, threw her out into the snow, where she succumbed to the freezing temperatures just hours later. The cruel fate that befell her has imprinted a lasting presence on the village, with many claiming to have seen her ghostly figure wandering forlornly through Wilcot's streets.
Wilcot Manor Hanged Monk
Wilcot Manor, Wilcot
Wilcot Manor has a haunting presence that draws visitors in. This historic building was once a monastery, and it's said that a monk who lived there took his own life by hanging himself after being forced to leave the premises. Now, his spirit is believed to roam the halls, a melancholy presence that lingers long after his passing. The circumstances surrounding his death are thought to have led to his restless state, and many have reported encountering his ghostly form.
The Cavalier of Woodborough
Road between village and Allington, Woodborough
On a dark night in 1971, a driver was making their way home along the road between Woodborough village and Allington when they encountered a rather unusual sight. A man dressed in Cavalier-style clothing was standing on the road, accompanied by a large black dog. The driver, understandably startled, quickly sped away rather than investigating further. This brief encounter has become a well-known local ghost story, with many wondering who the Cavalier was and what he was doing out on that rural road so late at night.
The Cursed Old Woman of Manningford
Hare Street, Manningford
Hare Street in Manningford is home to a rather unsettling legend. Some believe a phantom woman, often referred to as the Old Woman, is doomed to roam these roads for eternity. According to local lore, she made a Faustian bargain, selling her soul to the Devil, and now she's cursed to walk the earth. The circumstances of her supposed transgression are shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain - her presence is still felt by those who claim to have seen her.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near A345 heading towards Marlborough
