The Ghost of Rufus: Murder, Magic, and Mystery in the New Forest

Join local researcher and folklore historian Vikki Bramshaw, author of ‘New Forest Folklore, Traditions & Charms’, as we step into the ancient heart of the New Forest to uncover one of its darkest and most enduring legends, explore how legends become attached to particular places, and how people made sense of their daily lives through superstition and storytelling.

In 1100AD, William II ‘Rufus the Red’ rode across the Forest on a Royal hunt. He never rode home, and within a matter of days a new King sat upon the English throne. Was Rufus’s death a tragic hunting accident, or was the King deliberately murdered?

On this atmospheric guided walk we follow the trail of the legend through ancient woodland and hidden corners of the Forest, exploring the myth surrounding the mysterious Rufus stone, the story of the blood-red pond, the ghostly tales that grew around the King’s death, and the unique traditions and heritage of this landscape where folklore and superstition thrive. Along the way, we’ll look beyond the familiar stories to ask how folklore is created, how legends become attached to particular places, and how people made sense of their daily lives through superstition and storytelling.

We will return to the car park and then all are invited to join us at The Sir Walter Tyrell SO43 7HD for an optional drink or lunch (not included in ticket price).

Duration/distance

• This is a walk lasting around 2 hours.

Cost

• £9.50 per person, children under 14 welcome for free but they may find the walk too far, and the content of the walk and talk is not designed for children.

Location

• Meeting point: Rufus Stone Car Park, 10:00AM 2½–3 hours, appx. 4.5 miles.
• Grid reference: SU 270 125 – Approx postcode SO43 7HD
• Just off the A31 near Brook/Ocknell
• There is a clearly signed car park for the Rufus Stone.

Booking information

• Tickets available through this link.

This walk is part of the New Forest Walking Festival 2026. Click here to find a full list of events.

Parking charges apply in Forestry England car parks. Find out more.

Image: Grandes Chroniques de France, circa 1274