The Myth surrounding Wistman’s Woods

Wistman’s woods is riddled with myths about ghosts, druids and hell hounds. About a mile from Two bridges hotel, the enchanted woodland is not a long trek from civilization.

It is said that Wistman’s woods was placed by druids. People say that the woods is the most haunted place on Dartmoor. It is also home to a host of adders, their bites are apparently more venomous than any other adder on Dartmoor.

The biggest legend is the hell hounds, or ‘wisht hounds’ as they are more commonly known. The woods is said to be the kennel to these creatures. They resemble huge black dogs, with red eyes, fangs and a hunger for human flesh and souls. The old Crocken, or the Devil are said to release them at night and a rides a skeleton horse in pursuit of lonely travelers and unbaptized babies.Some locals even say that they often hear the hound howling out, in bay of blood.

‘A farmer was riding home from a fare, when the pack of hounds, and a dark huntsman whisked past him. He asked him how the hunt had gone, hoping he would share with him some of his game. ‘Here’ said a sinister voice, and threw him a bundle.

The farmer picked up the gift and hurried home. When he returned home, upon opening the bundle, he discovered that it contained the body of his own infant son.’

Near the northen edge of the woods is the ancient Lych Way, or as it is commonly known ‘Way of the dead’. It was along this route that the corpses were carried for Burial. Along this route, a group of white clad figures have been observed following the path of the once well used funeral route.

Local’s refuse to go near the woods as the sun sets. The oaks grow barely taller than 5.5m (18ft) high. Their tangled branches and uneven rocky floor make it impossible for the Dartmoor ponies and cattle to enter. This is the reason that the woodland still exists on the moor, as it has been safe from the destructive grazing.