The New Forest, with its vast woodlands, picturesque villages, and serene landscapes, is often celebrated as one of England’s most beautiful and tranquil areas. But hidden beneath its peaceful exterior are chilling tales of hauntings, ghostly apparitions, and dark legends that have been passed down through generations. If you’re drawn to the eerie and unexplained, the New Forest offers an extraordinary glimpse into England’s haunted past. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or a lover of ghost stories, the New Forest promises to intrigue and entertain. Here are 7 haunted places you must visit to uncover their ghostly histories.
1. Burley Manor: The Ghostly Girl of the Moat
One of the most famous haunted places in the New Forest is Burley Manor, located in the charming village of Burley. The manor is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who tragically drowned in the moat surrounding the property. Witnesses claim to have seen her ghostly figure floating above the water, particularly on moonlit nights. The eerie atmosphere at Burley Manor continues to attract ghost hunters, curious visitors, and those who simply love a good spooky tale.
2. Sybil Leek and the Witchcraft Legacy of Burley
Burley is also famously connected to Sybil Leek, a 20th-century “white witch” whose mystical influence still resonates in the village. Known for her deep knowledge of astrology and the occult, Sybil Leek helped solidify Burley’s reputation as a place of witchcraft. Visitors can still find shops in Burley that embrace this mystical heritage, offering magical trinkets, crystals, and occult books.
3. Beaulieu Abbey: The Vengeful Monk
Nestled within the tranquil Beaulieu village, Beaulieu Abbey has a dark history that continues to haunt its ruins. The story goes that a monk, who broke his vows, was brutally murdered by his fellow monks in punishment. His restless spirit is said to haunt the abbey, wandering the ruins at night. Visitors often report hearing footsteps echoing through the stone corridors or feeling an unexplainable chill in the air, especially near the altar.
4. Boldre Burial Ground: Spirits Beneath the Earth
The Boldre Burial Ground, an ancient graveyard in the village of Boldre, is considered one of the most haunted locations in the New Forest. Some claim to have seen shadowy figures moving among the gravestones or heard whispers in the otherwise silent graveyard. The overgrown grounds add to the eerie atmosphere, and many believe the spirits of those buried here still linger.
5. The Wild Ponies and the Supernatural
The wild ponies of the New Forest are perhaps the most famous residents of the region. However, some legends suggest that these ponies are not ordinary animals but the spirits of past villagers who were transformed into horses as punishment. At night, it’s said that the sound of hoofbeats can be heard, but when you turn around, the ponies are nowhere to be seen, adding to the supernatural mystery of the forest.
6. The Royal Oak Pub: Ghostly Apparitions Behind the Bar
In the village of Linwood, The Royal Oak Pub is said to be haunted by several restless spirits. The most notable is the ghost of a former innkeeper, who is often seen behind the bar or heard walking around the pub late at night. Some patrons claim to have felt a sudden chill or heard unexplainable noises while enjoying a pint, making this cozy pub a hot spot for ghost hunters.
7. The New Forest Cider House: A Haunting Legacy of the Past
For those who love a good ghost story alongside a refreshing drink, The New Forest Cider House is another spot to explore. The cider house is located in a building dating back to the 17th century, and it is said to be haunted by the spirit of a former worker who died tragically. Some visitors have reported hearing footsteps and seeing objects move on their own, and the eerie energy adds an extra layer of intrigue to a visit.
Exploring the Haunted History of the New Forest
For those curious about the haunted history of the New Forest, there are several ways to delve deeper into its ghostly past. Ghost tours and paranormal investigations are popular options, guiding visitors through the most haunted spots in the forest. These tours offer a chance to experience the eerie atmosphere firsthand and possibly capture evidence of ghostly activity using paranormal equipment.
Where to Stay to Explore the Haunted New Forest
If you’re planning a visit to explore the haunted history of the New Forest, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. Consider booking a stay at one of the many charming properties in the region. From historic inns to peaceful cottages, there’s a wide range of accommodations to choose from. Head to our sleeps page for more options and to find the perfect place for your ghostly adventure
