The picturesque village of Pleshey in Essex, England has been witness to countless tales dating back to the medieval times. But there is one story that has truly seeped into the fabric of the village – the chilling legend surrounding the ancient Pleshey Castle. It was built in 1066 by Geoffrey de Mandeville during the reign of William the Conqueror. The castle has long been reduced to a mound today, but the tales of what occurred behind its formidable walls still resonate. Here lie stories of power, treachery, heartbreak, and ghostly encounters. One such tale pertains to Thomas of Lancaster, crushed by the political machinations of the era. Lancaster was held prisoner within the castle walls by his own cousin King Edward II, leading to his eventual execution in the 14th century. Since then, many claim to have heard the sombre gong of a bell every March 22nd, said to be Lancaster’s death knell echoing through time. Others speak of a ghostly knight, believed to be Lancaster himself, wandering the deserted castle grounds mourning his tragic fate. The villagers, both past and present, have always treated these tales with a sense of respect. To them, these aren’t merely old stories, but a living testament to their rich history. Despite the haunting atmosphere around the castle remain, Pleshey continues to charm visitors with its historical allure and the tale of the eternally mourning knight.