Haunted Hosts

The Three Crowns stands as one of Devon's most architecturally significant historic buildings, constructed in the mid-16th century of solid Dartmoor granite as the dower house for Sir John Whiddon, who died in 1575. The building showcases the finest 16th century façade in Chagford, including magnificent granite stonework, splendid mullioned windows, and massive oak beams that create an atmosphere of stepping back into a bygone age. Archaeological investigations have revealed that the current building was constructed across three medieval burgage plots, with evidence suggesting previous high-status buildings may have been lost to fire. The property served as the family home of the wealthy Whiddons for several centuries, becoming intertwined with local tragedy when Mary Whiddon was shot dead on her wedding day in 1641 at the nearby church steps. The building's transformation from manor house to inn occurred sometime in the late 17th century as the Whiddon family fortunes declined, initially operating as the Black Swan before becoming the Three Crowns. The hotel's granite walls are so thick that even paranormal investigators marvel at the ghostly feat of spirits passing through them. Today, it stands as a Grade II* listed building, recognised as 'particularly important and of more than special interest', testament to its exceptional architectural and historical value.