The legend says that around the 1820's the Earl of Shrewsbury, on his way back home to the local manor (Alton Towers) was accosted and asked for money. When he refused the old man/woman (depending on which version you read) put a curse on him saying that for any boughs from this oak tree that fall, a member of his family will die. Next day, you guessed it, one died; so the Earl had the rest of the tree swathed in heavy chains. *This is a very much abridged version* but Alton Towers did create a ride , The Hex, based on the old legend, so it must be true :-)
Judging by the corrosion on the chains, they have been there a very long time. A lovely place, a great shot. Reminiscent of sleepy hollow, don't go here at night.
