Nestled in the heart of Shebbear, a picturesque village in Devon, the Devil’s Stone Inn stands as a testament to centuries of local history and paranormal mystery. This former 17th-century farmhouse has become a focal point for those fascinated by supernatural phenomena and traditional folklore.
The inn’s origins trace back to the early 1600s, when it served as a typical farmhouse in rural Devon. Over the centuries, the building has witnessed countless changes, transforming from a simple agricultural dwelling to a renowned public house that attracts both locals and paranormal enthusiasts. In recent years, Suzy and Lee Cremer acquired the property in April 2021, carefully preserving its historical character while breathing new life into the ancient structure.
The Devil’s Stone Inn has gained a formidable reputation for paranormal activity that extends far beyond typical ghost stories. Numerous witnesses, including staff and guests, have reported a wide range of inexplicable occurrences that challenge rational explanation. The supernatural presence within the inn manifests in various intriguing ways.
Ghostly inhabitants seem to roam the corridors and rooms, each with their own distinct characteristics. A young girl in white is frequently observed wandering the upstairs passageways, believed by local historians to be the spirit of a child who perished in a devastating fire centuries ago. The bar area hosts its own supernatural gathering. An RAF pilot who died in room 4 lingers nearby, while a grumpy, bearded gentleman sits quietly alone.
The paranormal experiences reported at the inn are remarkably consistent. Guests and staff have witnessed taps running spontaneously, beds inexplicably unmaking themselves, and pictures falling to the floor without apparent cause. Windows fly open of their own accord, and loud, unexplained footsteps echo through the landing. Phantom door knocks and mysterious sounds add to the building’s supernatural atmosphere.
Room 8 holds particular significance for paranormal investigators. This specific room is considered the most haunted area of the inn, with numerous reports of bed covers being mysteriously removed and pictures moving inexplicably during the night. A persistent smell of smoke occasionally permeates the air, a haunting reminder of the cottage fires that once occurred on the site.
The inn derives its name from a remarkable local tradition centred around an ancient stone of mysterious origin. This massive stone, weighing approximately one ton and measuring around six feet by four feet, sits opposite the village church and has been the subject of local legends for generations. According to local folklore, the stone fell from the Devil’s pocket when he was cast out of heaven, landing in Shebbear as a permanent reminder of supernatural conflict. Some historians suggest the stone predates Roman occupation, with its composition unlike any other rock formation in Europe.
The most fascinating aspect of the stone is the annual ritual performed on 5 November. At precisely 8 PM, bell ringers gather to physically turn the massive stone, accompanied by discordant church bell ringing. The village vicar traditionally recounts the legend, while Morris dancers perform before the main event. This ritual is believed to keep evil forces at bay and prevent potential misfortune.
Multiple interpretations exist regarding the stone’s origins. Some claim it was dropped by St. Michael during his legendary battle with the Devil, while others suggest it might be an ancient altar stone from a pre-Christian religious site.
The Devil’s Stone Inn has attracted numerous paranormal researchers and television programmes interested in documenting its supernatural phenomena. The consistent nature of the reported experiences and the rich historical context make the location a compelling site for those studying unexplained events.
The Devil’s Stone Inn represents more than just a haunted public house. It is a living repository of local history, folklore, and supernatural mystery. Whether one believes in paranormal phenomena or approaches the stories with scepticism, the inn continues to captivate the imagination of locals and visitors alike.