The 5 Most Haunted Woods In The UK

The Unexplained
3 min readMay 20, 2024

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In the realm of the supernatural, few places evoke as much fear and fascination as haunted woods. The United Kingdom, steeped in history and folklore, is home to some of the most haunted woodlands in the world. These eerie woods, each with its unique tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena, draw both thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike. In this article, we delve into the five most haunted woods in the UK, exploring their spine-chilling stories and what makes them a must-visit for anyone seeking a brush with the paranormal.

Photo by Niilo Isotalo on Unsplash

1. Wistman’s Wood, Dartmoor

A Labyrinth of Legend

Wistman’s Wood in Dartmoor is a place shrouded in legend. Ancient, twisted oaks and a thick carpet of moss set a scene straight out of a fairy tale. But not all tales here are whimsical. Folklore speaks of ghostly hounds and eerie whispers that float on the wind.

The Phantom Hounds

Visitors often report feeling watched, attributing this to the infamous ‘Wisht Hounds’, spectral dogs said to roam these woods. The feeling of unease is pervasive, especially as dusk falls and the woods take on a sinister air.

2. Pluckley Woods, Kent

Britain’s Most Haunted Village

Pluckley, dubbed “Britain’s most haunted village,” extends its eerie reputation to its surrounding woods. Ghost stories abound here, each more chilling than the last. The woods seem to hold echoes of the past, replaying its most macabre moments.

The Screaming Woods

Named for the unexplained screams that pierce the night, these woods have been the site of numerous paranormal investigations. Some believe these screams are echoes of past tragedies, forever imprinted in the woods’ memory.

Read our article — Haunted Forests: Legends Of The Supernatural

Photo by Dan Meyers on Unsplash

3. Pendle Hill, Lancashire

Witches and Warlocks

Pendle Hill is synonymous with the infamous 1612 witch trials. Here, a dozen locals were accused of witchcraft, casting a dark shadow over the area. The woods surrounding Pendle Hill are said to be haunted by these condemned souls.

A Haunting History Revisited

Visitors often report sightings of ghostly figures and unexplained mists. Some even claim to hear whispers of ancient spells, a chilling reminder of the hill’s witchy past.

4. Cannock Chase, Staffordshire

A Spectral Sanctuary

Cannock Chase is a place of natural beauty, but its woods hide a darker side. It’s a hotspot for UFO sightings, ghostly children, and the infamous ‘Black Eyed Girl’, a spectral figure that has become a legend in local lore.

Children of the Woods

The most heart-wrenching tales from Cannock Chase involve the ghosts of children, believed to be victims of historic tragedies. Their laughter and cries are sometimes heard, blurring the lines between the past and present.

5. Epping Forest, Essex

A Forest of Phantoms

Epping Forest’s history is rich and tumultuous, making it a prime location for ghostly encounters. From highwaymen to war victims, the forest seems to hold the spirits of those who met untimely ends within its depths.

Echoes of Turbulent Times

The most common reports include sightings of shadowy figures and the sounds of horses’ hooves, believed to be the ghosts of highwaymen still roaming the forest paths.

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Haunted Woods

The UK’s haunted woods are not just about ghost stories; they are a journey into the country’s rich and mysterious past. Each forest holds its secrets, waiting to be discovered by those brave enough to venture into their depths. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or simply love a good ghost story, these woods offer an experience unlike any other. So, if you’re looking for a thrill, why not plan a visit to one of these haunted woods? Just remember, you might not be alone…

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The Unexplained

Explore Mysteries, UFO'S, Paranormal, Strange Phenomena, The Missing, Spiritual Beliefs and Everything Unexplained.