Britain’s Most Famous Witch & The Village Still Under Her Spell
The Wanderlust Way
935 views
On Halloween night in 1963, a BBC report spoke of witches and warlocks gathering among the trees of the New Forest. Among them was Sybil Leek—a black-caped antiques dealer, prolific author and self-proclaimed white witch who had made the village of Burley her home.
More than sixty years after she left, Burley is still filled with broomsticks, crystals and reminders of the woman who transformed its reputation forever.
But how did Sybil become one of Britain’s first celebrity witches? What happened when the curious discovered where she lived? And why does this tiny English village remain under her spell today?
For the first journey of our Halloween road trip, we’re following Sybil’s trail through the ancient forest, hearing some of her story in her own words and uncovering the remarkable life behind the legend.
Because sometimes it isn’t the witch who needs the village—it’s the village that needs its witch.
🙏 With thanks:
This video is made with respect for the people whose lives are explored in this story.
🎥 If you enjoyed this video, you may also like:
Mother Shipton - secrets of a Yorkshire Witch
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🙏 Thank you to everyone who supports this channel by watching, liking, commenting, sharing and hyping these videos — it genuinely makes a difference. Extra thanks to channel members who help keep the fires burning 🔥
Become a member from £2.99 a month here:
@thewanderlustwayisback
🎥 This video was filmed on location and produced independently for The Wanderlust Way, exploring strange places, dark stories and real adventures from Britain and beyond.
It is intended for educational and entertainment purposes. All research has been carried out to the best of my ability and viewers are encouraged to explore further if a subject interests them.
👍 Enjoyed this video?
Please like, subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss the next wander.
This film includes short extracts from a BBC report originally broadcast on Halloween night in 1963. The clips are presented for commentary, criticism and historical context. Copyright remains with the BBC.
You can watch the extended BBC Archive footage featuring Sybil Leek here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/videos/cqqpr4d5...
No part of this video may be reused, reproduced or republished without express written permission.
#SybilLeek #Burley #NewForest
20 Comments
Excellent presentation as always
Looking good Claire ..
Many thanks ...
Britain’s Most Famous Witch & The Village Still Under Her Spell
The Wanderlust Way
935 views
On Halloween night in 1963, a BBC report spoke of witches and warlocks gathering among the trees of the New Forest. Among them was Sybil Leek—a black-caped antiques dealer, prolific author and self-proclaimed white witch who had made the village of Burley her home.
More than sixty years after she left, Burley is still filled with broomsticks, crystals and reminders of the woman who transformed its reputation forever.
But how did Sybil become one of Britain’s first celebrity witches? What happened when the curious discovered where she lived? And why does this tiny English village remain under her spell today?
For the first journey of our Halloween road trip, we’re following Sybil’s trail through the ancient forest, hearing some of her story in her own words and uncovering the remarkable life behind the legend.
Because sometimes it isn’t the witch who needs the village—it’s the village that needs its witch.
🙏 With thanks:
This video is made with respect for the people whose lives are explored in this story.
🎥 If you enjoyed this video, you may also like:
Mother Shipton - secrets of a Yorkshire Witch
Mother Shipton 🧙 Secrets of a Yorkshire Wi...
🙏 Thank you to everyone who supports this channel by watching, liking, commenting, sharing and hyping these videos — it genuinely makes a difference. Extra thanks to channel members who help keep the fires burning 🔥
Become a member from £2.99 a month here:
@thewanderlustwayisback
🎥 This video was filmed on location and produced independently for The Wanderlust Way, exploring strange places, dark stories and real adventures from Britain and beyond.
It is intended for educational and entertainment purposes. All research has been carried out to the best of my ability and viewers are encouraged to explore further if a subject interests them.
👍 Enjoyed this video?
Please like, subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss the next wander.
This film includes short extracts from a BBC report originally broadcast on Halloween night in 1963. The clips are presented for commentary, criticism and historical context. Copyright remains with the BBC.
You can watch the extended BBC Archive footage featuring Sybil Leek here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/videos/cqqpr4d5...
No part of this video may be reused, reproduced or republished without express written permission.
#SybilLeek #Burley #NewForest