Local Area Guide
Published by Webbers Estate Agents •
Haunted Houses in Devon, Cornwall & Somerset
From ruined castles and centuries-old manor houses to mysterious moorland legends, discover some of the best-known haunted houses, historic properties and ghost stories from across the South West.
Where are the most famous haunted places in the South West?
Some of the best-known haunted places in the South West include Berry Pomeroy Castle and Buckland Abbey in Devon, Prideaux Place, St Michael's Mount and Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, and Dunster Castle in Somerset.
Their supernatural reputations largely come from local folklore, historic accounts and stories passed down through generations.
Key takeaways
- Devon contains some of the South West's most famous ghost stories, including legends surrounding Berry Pomeroy Castle and Buckland Abbey.
- Cornwall's castles, historic houses and moorland landscapes have inspired supernatural folklore for generations.
- Dunster Castle is among Somerset and Exmoor's best-known historic locations associated with ghost stories.
- Many of these sites can be visited, although opening arrangements should always be checked before travelling.
- Ghost stories are folklore rather than established historical fact, but they form a fascinating part of the South West's cultural history.
Haunted houses and places in Devon
Devon's combination of medieval castles, historic estates, isolated countryside and ancient settlements has produced generations of local legends and ghost stories.
Berry Pomeroy Castle near Totnes
Few places in Devon have a supernatural reputation quite like Berry Pomeroy Castle.
The atmospheric castle ruins near Totnes have long been associated with stories of apparitions, including figures traditionally known as the White Lady and Blue Lady.
Whatever your view of the supernatural, its ruined towers, woodland setting and long history make Berry Pomeroy one of the most atmospheric historic attractions in Devon.
Buckland Abbey near Yelverton
Buckland Abbey is closely associated with Sir Francis Drake and has accumulated its own collection of legends during its long history.
One of the most colourful pieces of local folklore claims Drake's spirit travels across Dartmoor in a spectral coach accompanied by supernatural hounds.
The story belongs firmly to folklore, but it has become part of the mythology surrounding both Buckland Abbey and Dartmoor.
Powderham Castle near Exeter
Historic Powderham Castle, beside the Exe Estuary, has stood for centuries and has naturally accumulated stories of unexplained happenings.
Tales associated with the castle include mysterious figures and apparitions reportedly seen around parts of the estate.
Today Powderham remains one of Devon's most recognisable historic properties and offers visitors an insight into centuries of West Country history.
Great Fulford near Exeter
Historic Great Fulford has been connected with the Fulford family for generations.
Like many centuries-old manor houses, it has also accumulated tales of footsteps, unexplained noises and apparitions.
Haunted houses and places in Cornwall
Cornwall's rugged coastline, ancient settlements, mining heritage and open moorland have helped create one of Britain's richest traditions of myths and folklore.
Prideaux Place in Padstow
Prideaux Place overlooks Padstow and dates from the Elizabethan period.
It is also associated with several supernatural stories, including accounts concerning former occupants of the historic house.
For visitors exploring Padstow and North Cornwall, the house offers a fascinating contrast to the area's beaches, harbour and coastal scenery.
Trerice near Newquay
The Elizabethan manor of Trerice near Newquay is another historic Cornish property surrounded by tales of mysterious activity.
The house dates from the 16th century and, like many properties of this age, stories involving unexplained sounds and former inhabitants have grown around it over the years.
St Michael's Mount
Although technically an island castle rather than a haunted house, St Michael's Mount is one of Cornwall's most atmospheric historic landmarks.
The tidal island has centuries of history and is connected with numerous legends, including the famous Cornish story of the giant Cormoran.
When the tide rises and the stone causeway disappears beneath the water, it is easy to understand how such an extraordinary place has inspired folklore for generations.
Bodmin Moor
Bodmin Moor brings a different kind of mystery.
One of its best-known modern legends is the Beast of Bodmin Moor, a mysterious large, black cat-like animal reportedly seen on the moor.
No definitive evidence has established the existence of such a creature, but the reported sightings have become firmly embedded in modern Cornish folklore.
For communities around Bodmin, Launceston and North Cornwall, these stories form another part of the remarkable history and character of the area.
Haunted houses and castles in Somerset
Somerset is another county rich in historic properties, medieval settlements and centuries-old legends.
Dunster Castle on Exmoor
Standing dramatically above the medieval village of Dunster, Dunster Castle has dominated the local landscape for generations.
Its long history has inevitably produced stories of supernatural encounters and unexplained activity within the castle and surrounding estate.
Whether visitors arrive for the ghost stories, architecture or views across Exmoor and towards the Bristol Channel, Dunster remains one of West Somerset's most distinctive landmarks.
Historic Exmoor
Beyond Dunster itself, the villages and countryside of Exmoor contain centuries of local history.
Old inns, isolated farmhouses, historic churches and ancient routes have generated countless legends and stories passed down between generations.
Local insight: living in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset & Exmoor
One of the things that makes the South West such a distinctive place to live is the extraordinary variety of property and landscapes found across the region.
From historic homes around Barnstaple, Bideford and Ilfracombe, to Cornish communities around Bodmin, Bude and Launceston, and the market towns and villages surrounding Taunton, Wellington, Minehead and Exmoor, every part of the region has its own story.
Period cottages, Victorian townhouses, converted chapels, former farmhouses and centuries-old village homes continue to make the South West property market remarkably varied.
Fortunately, the vast majority come without a resident ghost.
Buying a historic home in the South West
Historic properties can offer character, craftsmanship and features that are difficult to reproduce in a modern home.
Buyers considering an older property should nevertheless understand its construction, condition and any restrictions that may apply.
Depending on the property, considerations can include:
- listed building status;
- conservation area restrictions;
- traditional construction methods;
- roof and chimney condition;
- damp and ventilation;
- historic extensions or alterations;
- drainage and private services;
- boundaries, access and rights of way.
A suitable property survey and independent professional advice can therefore be particularly valuable when purchasing an older home.
Frequently asked questions about haunted places in the South West
What is the most famous haunted castle in Devon?
Berry Pomeroy Castle near Totnes is one of Devon's best-known locations for ghost stories. Legends associated with the ruins include the White Lady and Blue Lady.
Are there haunted houses in Cornwall?
Cornwall has numerous historic houses and locations associated with ghost stories and folklore, including Prideaux Place, Trerice, St Michael's Mount and locations around Bodmin Moor.
What haunted places can you visit in Somerset?
Historic locations in Somerset associated with ghost stories include Dunster Castle on Exmoor alongside numerous historic houses, inns and ancient settlements across the county.
Is Buckland Abbey haunted?
Buckland Abbey has long been associated with folklore involving Sir Francis Drake. One legend tells of a spectral coach travelling across Dartmoor. These accounts form part of local folklore rather than established historical fact.
Why are there so many ghost stories in Devon and Cornwall?
Devon and Cornwall contain castles, ancient settlements, historic houses, mining landscapes, moorland and coastal communities with centuries of history. Over generations these places have naturally accumulated local myths, legends and supernatural stories.
Where can I find period property for sale in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset?
Webbers Estate Agents markets homes across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Exmoor, including period cottages, country homes, townhouses, coastal property and individual historic homes.
Speak to a local Webbers office
Ghosts aside, if you are thinking about moving home in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset or Exmoor, local knowledge can make a significant difference.
Established in 1924, Webbers Estate Agents has been helping people move throughout the South West for more than 100 years.
Our interconnected network of offices combines detailed local property knowledge with extensive regional and national marketing.
Whether you are buying, selling or simply wondering what your property could be worth, speak to your nearest Webbers office or arrange an expert property valuation.