The Ghosts & Legends of Devizes

Join the Wyrdo's as they take a deep dive into the history and folklore of Devizes, the Wiltshire market town Craig has lived in all his life. This episode is a journey through a town built on history and secrets, from its Norman roots to its unsettling supernatural tales. Craig and Andy explore every major haunted landmark and reveal the bizarre stories that have shaped the town's character.Devizes Castle: The episode begins at the heart of the town, exploring the history of Devizes Castle, the Norman stronghold that gave the town its name. The Wyrdo's detail its role in the Civil War, its destruction by Cromwell, and its most famous ghostly resident, the Lady in White.The Battle of Roundway Down & Oliver's Castle: The tour moves to the site of the pivotal Battle of Roundway Down, where the hosts discuss the devastating Royalist victory. They also examine the Iron Age hill fort, Oliver's Castle, and the fascinating discovery of the Roundway Archer, a local man with connections across Bronze Age Europe.Wiltshire Folklore: Craig shares the origin of the Wiltshire nickname "Moonrakers" with a story of cunning smugglers and a full moon's reflection. Andy recounts the bizarre tale of the Phantom Bell of Wilcot, a bell bewitched by a local "cunning man" that rang non-stop until his death.The Darker Side of Devizes: The Wyrdo's delve into some of the town's most macabre history. They visit the site of Devizes Prison, detailing its dark history of public executions and grim justice. They also stand at the Market Cross to tell the story of Ruth Pierce, a woman who dropped dead after swearing a false oath in public.Haunted Landmarks: The tour continues with some of Devizes' most haunted locations, including the chilling legend of the Hand of Glory and the spectral activity at the Black Swan Hotel, the Palace Theatre, and the Roundway Hospital, where a ghost reportedly shouts at a resident for reading.Local Legends & Tragedies: The Wyrdo's discuss the tragic history of Drew's Wood Lake and the ghostly presence in the nearby cemetery. They also share a couple of charming, non-scary ghost stories about Annie the Servant at the local Iceland and a vanishing groom.Weird News: The episode concludes with two truly bizarre news stories: an outbreak of mysterious sign thefts in the West Country, and an Australian man facing jail time for attempting to collect every element of the periodic table.Stay Wyrd!www.wyrdwessex.co.ukBuy our merch hereWritten by Craig Brooks and hosted by Craig Brooks and Andy StevensEdited by Craig BrooksIntro music by Leonell Cassio - The Paranormal Is Real (ft. Carrie) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.