44 Must-See Literary Landmarks in the United Kingdom

34. Burley, A Village of Witches, Smugglers, and Literary Legends in the New Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Hampshire’s mystical New Forest, the village of Burley is a place where folklore and literature blend seamlessly, creating an enchanting destination for lovers of myths, legends, and storytelling. With a history steeped in tales of witches, smugglers, and even dragons, Burley has long captured the imagination of authors and readers alike. The village’s most famous modern association with witchcraft comes from Sybil Leek, a self-proclaimed white witch who lived in Burley in the 1950s, bringing renewed attention to the town’s long-standing mystical heritage. Strolling through Burley, visitors will find a charming collection of old-world cottages, quirky shops selling spell books and potions, and ancient oak trees that seem to whisper secrets of the past. The landscape itself, with its sprawling heathlands and dense forests, has inspired countless ghost stories and supernatural tales, making it a haven for writers exploring England’s darker folklore. The village’s connection to smugglers and highwaymen adds another layer of intrigue, with hidden tunnels and secret meeting spots still rumored to exist beneath its historic pubs.