The Beast of Bolam Lake
One of the strangest urban myths to have come to light in recent years is that of The Beast of Bolam Lake. Bolam Lake sits in the middle of a country park near Belsay, and is a popular visitor attraction.
The Origin Story
In 2003 a group of fishermen, out for a night of fishing had an encounter with what was later dubbed "The Geordie Yeti". It made the papers and The Chronicle reported that the creature was about 8ft tall, heavy built and had glowing eyes.
Over the next few weeks there were apparently more sightings around the lake.
Johnathan Downes of the Centre for Fortean Zoology was himself skeptical of what could be found in the area as it is not an ideal area for a creature such as described to be able to live.
However, during the nights investigation there were witnesses that say they saw a figure dart across their field of vision. Not a 'Bigfoot' as such but a shadow like entity.
Personally I don't believe in the 'Geordie Bigfoot'. After all if people can create Krampus costumes that are basically terrifying in broad daylight, what's to stop someone who just wants to scare people out at night in a country park from doing exactly that!
However, having said that I still wouldn't go out after dark at Bolam Lake....
just in case....
Key Locations
Bolam Lake Country Park is a country park in Northumberland, England, near the village of Bolam and about 9 miles west of Morpeth. It is signposted off the A696 road from Belsay.
Bolam Lake
Located a short distance away from Bolam Lake Country Park is Shaftoe Crags, providing a slightly more rugged walk with great views over the countryside
Shaftoe Crags
At Belsay itself you can find an English Heritage site featuring a medieval castle, a Greek revival villa, and magnificent quarry gardens at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens. Absolutely worth a visit.
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens