The Highwayman Inn, nestled in the rural landscape of West Devon, has a rich history dating back to 1282. Originally a cottage, it was converted into a coaching inn during the 17th century. The inn gained its name from the notorious highwaymen who frequented the area, preying on travelers along the nearby roads.

Over the centuries, the inn has accumulated numerous ghost stories and paranormal reports. One of the most well-known spectral residents is said to be a highwayman named Samuel Bellamy, who allegedly haunts the bar area. Witnesses have reported seeing a shadowy figure dressed in period clothing, sometimes accompanied by the sound of jingling spurs.

Another frequently encountered spirit is that of a young girl, believed to be the daughter of a former innkeeper. Staff and guests have reported hearing her laughter and seeing her apparition in the hallways and bedrooms. Some have even claimed to feel a small hand tugging at their clothing.

The inn’s collection of antiques has also been associated with paranormal activity. A wooden carving of a sailor’s head is said to move on its own, while an old rocking chair has been observed rocking by itself. Visitors have reported feeling sudden cold spots and experiencing an oppressive atmosphere in certain areas of the building.

Perhaps the most dramatic ghostly encounter occurred when a previous landlord claimed to have been pushed down the stairs by an unseen force. This incident, along with other unexplained occurrences, has contributed to the Highwayman Inn’s reputation as one of Devon’s most haunted locations.