Hello Andy. It is great to hear from locals, so thanks for getting in touch. I’d not heard the story that the follies are said to have been built by the Romans, I’m pleased to add that to the history. Thanks again.

Im a local boy and had family in Stoford and Barwick. Can remember being told Jack used to climb down the tower at the stroke of 12:00 and drink from the lake by the house. Another tale was Jack was a murderer who hid in the tower atop the arch, his sweetheart worked in the big house and she used to steal treacle to feed him while he sheltered there.
Can remember as a lad in 70’s people still saying Jack the treacle eater and the other follies were built by the Romans.

Lucky you! I’d love to be able to give Jack a wave on my daily walk. Enjoy living in Barwick and thanks for getting in touch.

Hello Geoff. Many versions of Jack the Treacle Eater’s story have been told over time. Please feel free to share the myth as you know it.

Good afternoon Kaitlyn. It’s always great to hear the local stories attached to follies so thanks for sharing this one and taking the time to get in touch.

I live and grew up in this neck of the woods and spent much of my childhood sat here. The rumour has it that ‘jack’ was a london messenger boy who used to live in the top of the building (don’t know the technical lingo sorry but the bit at the top with a door) he is known as jack the treacle eater because apparently he was paid in treacle for his work – Hope this helps

Hello Julia. It’s great to have that extra information, many thanks.