Tucked away in the remote Taw Valley of rural Devon, the Portsmouth Arms stands as a testament to centuries of history, mystery, and lingering spirits. With its low ceilings, dark wooden beams, and thick stone walls, this ancient pub is a place where the past feels ever-present — but not always in a welcoming way. Between its rich history and the unsettling tales of paranormal activity, the Portsmouth Arms is far more than just a place for a pint; it is a site where the supernatural and the historical intertwine in ways that cannot be easily explained.
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Built in 1420 as a toll-house, the pub gained prominence in the 19th century when the 5th Earl of Portsmouth secured a private train station beside it, a legacy still evident today on the Tarka Line.
​Over the years, the Portsmouth Arms has served travelers, locals, and perhaps more mysterious patrons. Rumors of darker uses and unexplained events cling to its walls, making it a magnet for history lovers and ghost hunters alike.
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In the 19th century, a woman collapsed and died suddenly at the Portsmouth Arms, sparking suspicions of poisoning. Though her death was ruled natural, whispers of her spirit linger. Visitors report footsteps and hushed voices near the bar where she passed, her presence felt most strongly in the stillness of night.
Unexplained events abound—glasses sliding on their own, doors opening and closing without cause, and a chilling cold that defies the warmth of the fire. It seems the spirits of the past refuse to leave.
Two playful spirits, believed to be boys who perished in a tragic farming accident, are said to haunt the converted holiday cottages nearby. Guests hear laughter, footsteps, and fleeting glimpses of the boys, continuing their games in the afterlife.
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The Portsmouth Arms offers more than history—it’s alive with the echoes of its haunted past. From spectral sightings to unexplained sounds, this ancient pub leaves an unforgettable impression on all who dare to visit. Will you brave its haunted halls?​​
What goes 'bump'in the night?
What goes 'bump'in the night?What goes 'bump'in the night?
Step inside the Portsmouth Arms, where centuries of history intertwine with chilling tales of the supernatural. From shadowy figures to playful spirits, this Devon pub is no ordinary stop—it’s a doorway to the past that refuses to rest.
Some important information...
What to expect on the night...
We typically start the night with a circle of protection and a chance to experience a few of the rooms without any equipment to immerse yourself into the night and tap into your sixth sense.
Throughout the night we will facilitate several vigils including modern and victorian techniques to investigate the hauntings.
A base-room will be provided to store all personal belongings during the night and to rest between vigils. Plenty of breaks will be provided.
You will also have 1 hour to explore and conduct your own vigils using any of the kit provided.