The Ghost of The Pilchard Inn at Burgh Island, South Devon.
Its that time of year for ghostly goings on. But even without Halloween , Devon has its own share of well talked-about ghosts. And many a local and tourist has a story to tell of a sighting or startling occurrence.
One ghost with some fame and notoriety is Tom Crocker, said to be the ghost of Burgh Island, off the South Devon coast.
Burgh Island has a history of Pirates and Smugglers and treasure, dating back centuries. Tales abound that 19 year old Tom Crocker was a rogue smuggler in the 14th Century. But, alas, he met his end at the site of the Pilchard Inn, on Burgh Island, at the hands of an exciseman. The exciseman was essentially a collector of taxes on goods like silverware and alcohol. Not the most popular guy to a smuggler.
Burgh Island was Tom Crocker’s hideout – a good choice since it is accessible via the beach, but cut off by the high tide twice daily. At the back of the Island were said to be 2 hidden caves, that Tom knew were only accessible by sea.
Tom Crocker met his death in the 3rd week of August 1395 – supposedly by hanging at the entrance to the island. Although there are others that say that Tom was shot. These tales have many variations!
Now Tom’s ghost is said to roam the island and the Pilchard Inn, which sits at the site. He’s said to be searching for his hidden treasure, that he couldn’t get to when he was alive, and is often really active around 14th August; the anniversary of his demise.
Locals describe rattling of doors and the Barman at the Pilchard said glasses have smashed on the floor unexplainably , whilst “people have seen things levitating in here”.
Not only was the Pilchard said to be Tom Crocker’s smuggling headquarters, it is famous in its own right. It dates from 1336, when there was a Monastery on the Island. The Art Deco Hotel now stands on that site, whilst the Pilchard is perched on the island edge.
The Pilchard is so named after the shoals of pilchards that were caught off Devon in late summer. Previously a lookout, or huer, would alert fishermen to the shoals coming near to the shoreline. On the Island there is a ruined Huer’s hut high up the hill where he would survey the waters. Crews would catch their hauls, that would then be processed . Both pilchards and their oil were exported, particularly to Mediterranean countries. The trade continued until the 19th Century. Hence our Pilchard Inn name connection.
Inside there are 2 small stonewalled rooms and low beams. And etched upon the granite chimney breast inside the pub is said to be the face of Tom Crocker
Burgh Island , its wonderful Hotel and the Pilchard Inn are a magnet to famous celebrities, guests and locals.
The spirit of Tom Crocker has been kept alive by the locals for many years on the annual Tom Crocker Day , held on August 14th. Young and Old will head over the Island in search of notorious Tom.