The Ostrich has a grim past. There has been an inn here dating back to 1106, and has been known under various names. However, in the 1300's it became notorious for the murderous exploits of a landlord named Jarman. When wealthy travellers stayed at the inn, Jarman would supply them with copious amounts of alcohol to ensure least resistence. When the unsuspecting (and worse for wear) traveller went up to bed, little did they know it was rigged with a trap door at its foot, causing it to pitch the sleeping guest through to the kitchens below. Once there, they were drowned. Jarman was eventually caught, but not before he had claimed numerous lives. He claimed to have murdered around 60 people, but the actual number is believed to be about 15. Jarman met his demise on the gallows.

 

The inn is reputedly haunted by a number of ghosts, including a lady in grey and various shadowy figures. Other phenomena include sighs and bumps, and a "sinister atmosphere" pervades parts of the building.