Exploring Enchantment: A Day at the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle, Cornwall

Aug 23, 2024Apr 29, 2025 / ghostcatcherireland / Leave a comment

(Inside the witch’s cottage. Image Source: E.Holohan 2024)

Nestled in the picturesque village of Boscastle, Cornwall, lies a treasure trove of the mystical and arcane: the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. As a history enthusiast and seeker of the strange and unusual, I recently had the pleasure of visiting this fascinating museum, and it was an experience that transported me through centuries of magic, folklore, and the human imagination.

(Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. Image Source: E.Holohan 2024)

The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic

The museum was founded by Cecil Williamson, who had had an interest in witchcraft and magic since childhood, and was a friend of Gerald Gardner who propagated a new religion called Wicca (later known as Gardnerian Wicca). The museum was first set up in Stratford-Upon-Avon and then moved, for the most part due to local opposition, to the Isle of Man, where Gardner became the ‘witch in residence’. After time, Gardner and Williamson parted company. Williamson then settled in the small Cornish harbour village of Boscastle where he opened the Museum of Witchcraft in 1960, where it remains until today.

In 1996 Williamson sold the museum to Graham King, who continued to grow and develop the museum, gaining an international reputation and a worldwide audience of visitors and researchers. Disaster almost befell the museum in 2004 when a devastating flood swept through Boscastle, leaving destruction in its wake. The fast-thinking Graham King was the first to raise the alarm, helping residents and visitors to safety while also protecting the vast majority of the museum’s precious artifacts from the floods.

In 2013 Graham King gave the museum and its contents to Simon Costin, Director of the Museum of British Folklore, and in 2015 the museum was renamed “The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic” to more accurately describe the present museum’s collection.

The collections

The museum now proudly holds the world’s largest collection of witchcraft-related artifacts. It includes over 4,500 objects and over 9,500 books and manuscripts. It is both the largest collection of such items and also likely the largest occult library in Europe. Walking through its doors felt like stepping into another realm. The exhibits are artfully arranged, guiding visitors on a journey from ancient pagan traditions to contemporary Wiccan practices, illuminating the myriad ways in which witchcraft has shaped culture and belief systems through the ages.

(Isobel Gowdie. Image Source: E.Holohan 2024)

The collection’s depth is astounding. I found myself entranced by displays of ancient charms, delicate poppets, and beautifully preserved herbs used in various spells and rituals. In the “Images of Witchcraft” I saw depictions of all kinds of witches throughout history, from images of the devil worshiping ugly old hag witches that were used as propaganda to fuel the witch-hunts to the beautiful, mysterious and seductive witches of the Pre-Raphaelite artists of the Victorians, who took their inspiration from mythology and legends, such as the witches of Arthurian and Greek legends.

The Witch Hunts

A particular highlight of the museum is the display dedicated to the persecution of witches. Here, the atmosphere shifts, becoming sombre as the grim reality of persecution unfolds. The peak of witch trials was in the 17^th and 18^th centuries and many ‘cunning folk’ and ordinary people were accused of using witchcraft. These people were imprisoned, tested, and tortured to obtain ‘confessions’ and sentenced to death. Torture devices such as thumb screws and heated leg irons were used to extract confessions to even the most outlandish claims of witchcraft. Witches were also put through tests, such as the identifying of “Devil’s Marks”, which were just natural birthmarks, moles, blemishes, or warts. If found they were thought to be a sure sign of a witch. If these marks were pricked with a ‘witch pricker’, a long pin, and didn’t draw blood the person was seen to be proved a witch. Detailed accounts and historical documents bring to light the tragic fates of many accused witches, offering a poignant reminder of the dangers of superstition and scapegoating.

(The Weighing Chair. Image Source: E.Holohan 2024)

Of all the exhibits in this section on the witch trials, I found the weighing chair the most fascinating. This is an iron chair that acts as a set of scales; on one side the victim would be sat, and on the other side the bible would be balanced. If the victim proved lighter than the bible, they were thought to be proved a witch. This device was a more positive item in that it was likely created when authorities were keen to disprove the practice of witchcraft and limit further prosecutions, as of course, nobody weighs less than a bible.

Charms and Curses

The items that unsettled me the most, however, were the “poppets”. These are objects that are often formed in the likeness of an individual who is to be cursed. These were often made of wax, but also other materials such as wool and textiles, and often contained something that belonged to the person, such as nail clippings, hair cuttings or a piece of clothing. Some of the poppets even had needles piercing them. Many curses were not intended to kill or physically harm. One poppet on display had a needle piercing its tongue, intending to stop the victim from spreading malicious gossip. Although these items could be used negatively for curses bringing misfortune, they could also be used to heal sickness by washing the poppet in healing herbs and oils. This once again, disproves the misconception that witches always used their powers for evil, rather than good. Despite this, the poppets pierced with needles gave me a visceral feeling of nausea, which meant I couldn’t stay long in that section looking at them.

Fairy folk and Piskies

The museum also features some of the lighter aspects of magic. One exhibit is devoted to the whimsical side of folklore, featuring fairy lore and magical creatures such as Cornish Piskies. There has been a belief in fairy folk for centuries in the British Isles and it is said that piskies are the departed souls of druids who once inhabited the West Country or even the souls of unbaptised children. All manner of fairy and pisky can be seen in the exhibit, even some pictured playfully dealing out cards on a human skull. This blend of the serious and the playful reflects the museum’s comprehensive approach to the subject, appealing to both scholarly interests and casual curiosity.

The Hare Lady

One exhibit I found particularly impressive was “The Hare Lady”. This is a sculpture made by artist Lionel Miskin in the 1960s. This sculpture was inspired by aspects of the Playboy Bunny Girls, animal totems, underworld spirits and shapeshifting witches. Hare have long been associated with witches and witchcraft, with some witches during the witch trials claiming to be able to transform into hares. Hares also have long associations and connections with the moon and goddesses such as Diana. For me, the hare reminds me of my late mother, who had hares living close to her home which seemed to greet me when we drove to her house to see her and made an almost magical close-up appearance to me in a field in the week following her death. This wonderful hare sculpture therefore caught my eye due to this personal association and moved me with its beauty.

Return to the mundane world with a little piece of magic

Before leaving, I made sure to visit the museum shop, which offers an array of books, magical tools, and curiosities. I left with a beautifully made “protection” bracelet—a little piece of magic to remind me of my visit.

(Guide book and charm bracelet. Image Source: E.Holohan 2024)

In a world where the rush of modern life and digital distractions often drown out the mystical and historical, the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle stands as a haven for those yearning to tap into the ancient, hidden currents of human experience. Whether you’re a seasoned witch, a history buff, or simply someone with a curious mind, this museum promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of magic, witchcraft and folklore.

If you find yourself in Cornwall, don’t miss the chance to explore this enchanting museum. Who knows? You might just leave with a little magic of your own.

Reference list

Atlas Obscura. (2013). The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic. [online] Available at: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-museum-of-witchcraft-boscastle-cornwall-boscastle-england [Accessed 23 Aug. 2024].

Museum of Witchcraft and Magic Guidebook. (2024).

Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. (n.d.). Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. [online] Available at: https://museumofwitchcraftandmagic.co.uk/history/ [Accessed 23 Aug. 2024].

Pearce, A.S. (2020). The Mystical Museum Of Witchcraft And Magic In Boscastle: 10 Reasons Why You MUST Visit! [online] thirdeyetraveller.com. Available at: https://thirdeyetraveller.com/museum-of-witchcraft-and-magic-boscastle/ [Accessed 23 Aug. 2024].

Smith, I. (2023). How witchcraft came to the Cornish coast | Apollo Magazine. [online] Apollo Magazine. Available at: https://www.apollo-magazine.com/museum-of-witchcraft-magic-simon-costin-halloween/ [Accessed 23 Aug. 2024].

Wingett, M. (2012). Visit To Museum Of Witchcraft In Boscastle, Cornwall | Spooky Isles. [online] Spooky Isles. Available at: http://www.spookyisles.com/museum-of-witchcraft-boscastle/ [Accessed 23 Aug. 2024].

333 Phenomena

Sep 4, 2010Apr 29, 2025 / ghostcatcherireland / Leave a comment

Over the years there have been frequent reports of a variety of unusual phenomena experienced between 3-4am, particularly heightened at 3:33am. Such phenomena as individuals waking up at this time for no logical reason, reported experiences of ‘sleep paralysis’ and more frequent reports of paranormal activity are associated with this time frame.

3am is often referred to as “Dead Time” or the “Devil’s Hour” as it is the time when paranormal activity is at its peak. Demons are said to be more active at this time rather than spirits. The popular Christian theory is that Jesus Christ died at 3pm, the opposite of 3am, and so 3am is the most active time for demons who wish to defy Christ and mock the Holy Trinity.

3:33am is thought to be the time for the ultimate mockery of the Holy Trinity with it also being half of 666; the number of the Beast. It is said at this time the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead is at its thinnest, allowing demons and spirits to communicate or cross over more easily than at other times.

Those who research the field of the paranormal state that spirits can be active 24/7 and that there is no concrete evidence to indicate that 3am is more active than any other time. However, paranormal activity may appear to occur more often at night as conditions of darkness are more suitable for conducting paranormal research. It is easier to see light anomalies or apparitions in the darkness and many items of paranormal research equipment are better able to pick up on activity in dark conditions. The senses are also intensified at night, which may give the impression that there is more paranormal activity occurring at that time due to everyday noises and tricks of the light creating mistaken paranormal experiences.

It has also been noted that many deaths occur between 3-5am as it is at this time that the body’s immune system is more vulnerable. Those who are terminally ill or very elderly are more likely to pass away at this time due to the body being weakened. Some researchers cite this as a theory as to why more spirits are active at this time, correlating with their times of death.

333 phenomena has also been reported by individuals who recognise repeated patterns of these numbers in their daily life such as waking up at 3:33am or seeing these numbers everywhere. Due to the theory that these numbers are a mockery of the Holy Trinity, individuals may have assigned religious meaning to these numbers causing psychological suggestion and leading the subconscious to pick out these patterns. This can go as far as subconsciously programming the body to wake up at this time.

It does seem naive for anyone to be able to claim that 3pm was the exact time of the death of Jesus, as at present religious scholars still disagree on what date this even took place. Therefore it seems imprudent for the number 3 to be ascribed mystical and religious meaning. Historically many people believed that midnight, the ‘witching hour’, was a period of greater activity for witches, demons and ghosts, with people avoiding going out at night due to this. It seems likely that our primeval fear of the dark, when early humans were more vulnerable to predators, has been retained and as a consequence superstition and religion has been used to apply meaning to our fear of the dark and the unknown.

Religion vs the Paranormal

Jun 13, 2010Apr 29, 2025 / ghostcatcherireland / Leave a comment

Paranormal beliefs are often portrayed as less rational and credible than religious beliefs. Even worse are conservative and fundamentalist believers who often regard paranormal claims as having to do with the forces of evil.

Religious and paranormal beliefs do share a number of important things in common, both have the view that the world is not just matter and energy, but presume the added presence of immaterial forces that influence or control the course of our lives. There seems to be a desire to provide meaning and coherence to otherwise random and chaotic events. If we suddenly are aware of a distant event that we should not know about we might attribute that to clairvoyance or psychic powers. How is this so different to believing it could be angels or God?

Paranormal belief systems are very similar to religion; they can provide meaning to our lives as well as the events in our lives. They can provide a social structure and comfort at different times. Paranormal belief systems do however lack some of the critical characteristics of religions. We do not necessarily base moral codes upon paranormal beliefs.

Religious beliefs are often based on cultural conditioning; most beliefs are inherited from the family unit and taught in institutional settings or absorbed through contact with society at large. Spiritual and paranormal beliefs on the other hand are most often based on personal experience; they can go hand in hand as they sometimes serve the same purpose. They both provide a moral foundation upon which to base behavior.

The paranormal community has exploded maybe due to the lack of faith in religion. And with all the controversy with abuse allegations that has come to light it is no wonder people are looking for alternative means of belief and faith.

Ouija Boards

Oct 21, 2009Apr 29, 2025 / ghostcatcherireland / 8 Comments

ouija

Ouija boards as we know them came into existence as a game in the mid-1800’s, when spiritualism and channeling were fashionable. Previous to this the first historical mention of something similar to a Ouija board is found in China at around 1100 B.C.^[The word “Ouija” is a mix of the French and German words for “yes.” Adolphus Theodore Wagner first patented Ouija boards, or “talking boards,” in England in1854. In the patent, Wagner called his invention a “psychograph” and it was supposed to read people’s minds. By 1861, Frenchman, Allan Kardac, was describing the Ouija board as a tool with which to open communications with the spirit world.

Modern Ouija boards were then developed by inventor William Fuld, who sold his patent to Parker Brothers in 1966. The Ouija boards sold by Parker Brothers consist of a rectangular game board that is covered with a woodcut-style alphabet, the words yes, no, and good-bye, and the numbers 0-9. Also included is a heart-shaped plastic planchette. The planchette is the ‘pointer’ that glides over the board under the direction of supernatural forces and form comments and questions by pointing them out.

Although marketted as a toy, there are people who believe they can be harmful. Some people believe that “evil demons” pretend to be cooperative ghosts in order to trick players into becoming spiritually possessed. Some Ouija board users claim to have had bad experiences related to their by being haunted by “demons,” seeing apparitions of spirits or hearing voices after using them. Some paranormal researchers claim that the majority of the worst cases of demon harassment and possession are caused by the use of Ouija boards.

How does a Ouija Board work? Believers claim that humans are a channel through which the spirit can alter the world. Sceptics believe that it is all down to small and subconscious movements of the hand. This is known as the ‘ideomotor effect’. Some would also argue that mediums communicate on a deep near unconscious level so it is also likely that a spirit could direct the users of a Ouija Board in a similar manner.

Although I have never used a Ouija Board myself, my mother dabbled with them as a teenager. I would probably try using one once, but having been strongly warned off them by my mother, I would not want to make a habit of it. Here is an experience my mother once had with a Ouija Board:

“Many years ago when I was about 13, I used to go out with a lad from a local town. One evening we were in his bedroom with four other friends, and we decided to play with the Ouija Board. One of the other lads was against it and refused to take part, so he sat on a chair by the wardrobe and as we asked the spirits questions he took the mickey, saying we were pushing the glass etc.
We contacted a spirit whose name was Jack and he had been a sailor. The lad by the wardobe laughed and took the mickey again, saying he knew what sailors were like and making bad comments. My boyfriend and I were amazed by the contact and asked lots of questions of this Jack, but it became difficult because of my boyfriend’s mate taking the mickey. We began to lose track of what we had said and started to ask silly things. I think the spirit became annoyed because a moment later there was a loud bang and the lad by the wardrobe had blood trickling from the side of his mouth. Well, we got out of the room and ran downstairs like hell. Once we had calmed down in the kitchen the lad told us what had happened: the bang we had heard was his head going back and hitting the wardrobe. He said that something or someone had hit him in the face, hence the blood and the cut lip. Well it was not any of us that did it! To this day I will never forget it and the look on the lad’s face. We never played with the Ouija Board again in that house and my boyfriend burnt all the letters and the board. Very strange indeed.”

Ouija – By Sylvia Plath
It is a chilly god, a god of shades,
Rises to the glass from his black fathoms.
At the window, those unborn, those undone
Assemble with the frail paleness of moths,
An envious phosphorescence in their wings.
Vermillions, bronzes, colors of the sun
In the coal fire will not wholly console them.
Imagine their deep hunger, deep as the dark
For the blood-heat that would ruddlr or reclaim.
The glass mouth sucks blooh-heat from my forefinger.
The old god dribbles, in return, his words.

The old god, too, write aureate poetry
In tarnished modes, maundering among the wastes,
Fair chronicler of every foul declension.
Age, and ages of prose, have uncoiled
His talking whirlwind, abated his excessive temper
When words, like locusts, drummed the darkening air
And left the cobs to rattle, bitten clean.
Skies once wearing a blue, divine hauteur
Ravel above us, mistily descend,
Thickening with motes, to a marriage with the mire.

He hymns the rotten queen with saffron hair
Who has saltier aphrodisiacs
Than virgins’ tears. That bawdy queen of death,
Her wormy couriers aer at his bones.
Still he hymns juice of her, hot nectarine.
I see him, horny-skinned and tough, construe
What flinty pebbles and ploughable upturns
As ponderable tokens of her love.
He, godly, doddering, spells
No succinct Gabriel from the letters here
But floridly, his amorous nostalgias.

Ghost Catcher Isles

Welcome to Ghost Catcher Isles, chronicling the weird, wonderful and eerie of the isles of Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Come with me on my adventures into the strange and paranormal

Paranormal Phenomena.