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"Evil Roots: Killer Tales of the Botanical Gothic" edited by Daisy Butcher - A Book Review
This review explores an anthology of botanically themed horror tales. Lovingly gathered from the collection of the British Library, "Evil Roots" contains a collection of stories from 1844 up to 1935, with works by Arthur Conan Doyle, Ambrose Bierce, Edith Nesbit, and more.
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"Cursed: An Anthology" edited by Marie O'Regan and Paul Kane - A Book Review
This review explores an anthology of horror tales inspired by folklore and fairy stories, featuring contributions from Neil Gaiman, Christina Henry, and M.R.Carey. "Cursed" is a treat for all lovers of dark fantasy.
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Visiting Gallarus Oratory, an Early Christian Site in Ireland
Located on the Slea Head near Dingle, County Kerry, Gallarus Oratory is surrounded by stunning scenery. Believed to be 1000 years old, the Oratory is the last intact building of its kind in Ireland.
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Cross Body Bags for Stadiums and Concerts: A Review of the Stadium Approved Ketiee Clear Bag
With stricter rules around bags at concerts and sporting events, I needed to purchase something that I could take with me and carry my essentials. I found the KETIEE Clear Cross Shoulder Bag which ticks all the boxes!
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Apple Lore of Britain and the Origins of the Fruit
Apples seem to be one of the quintessential fruits of Britain, but this has not always been so. Find out how they got here and how they have been celebrated throughout the history of the British Isles from Roman times to Apple Day.
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Top 5 Haunted Campsites in Wales
Ever fancy stopping at a haunted campsite? With plenty of strange goings-on in Wales, here are five suggestions for those actively seeking a spooky stay.
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Things to Do in Llangollen, Wales
With a castle, ruined abbey, steam trains, white-water rafting, and canal boat rides for visitors to enjoy, Llangollen has so much to offer.
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Vaga the Wanderer - Goddess of the River Wye
Running through Wales and parts of England, the River Wye is arguably one of the most beautiful rivers in the British Isles. Legend tells how the River has its own river goddess named Vaga. But is this historically accurate, or poetical flights of fancy?
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In Search of Teggie, the Monster of Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala)
Llyn Tegid, also known as Bala Lake, is said to be home to a cryptid. We went out to see what we could find!
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A Day Out in Llanberis, Wales
Tucked in a high valley at the foot of Wales' tallest peak, Yr Wddfa (Snowdon), Llanberis is packed with things to enjoy. Read on to help prepare for a trip to this Welsh village.
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Days out in Wales - Corwen
Close to the border with England, Corwen has seen its fair share of action during Wales' struggle for independence. Read more on what to do during a visit to this beautiful little town.
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A Day Out in Llandudno, Wales
Looking for somewhere to visit in North Wales? Read on to discover what the delightful seaside town of Llandudno in Conwy County Borough has to offer.
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A Day Out in Portmeirion, Wales
The beautiful Italian-style village of Portmeirion is a surprising find. Be sure to visit on your next trip to North Wales!
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A Day Out in Harlech, Wales: Tips for Travelers
Discover Harlech on your next trip to North Wales! With its own castle and beach, this pretty town is not to be missed.
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Lyonesse: Exploring the Origins of the Flood Myth
The Arthurian myth of the lost kingdom of Lyonesse is a romantic legend ... or is there more to it? Where was Lyonesse located? Could mythology be telling us about an ancient flood catastrophe?
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A Field Guide to Fairies: The Alp-Luachra
This obscure creature from Irish folklore was believed by some to be the cause of mysterious thinning illnesses and abdominal pain. Crawling into its victim's mouth while they slept by a stream, this being made a home in its host's belly and feeds on any meals they should eat.
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How to Make Dandelion Biscuits (UK Recipe)
Considered a weed, dandelions are surprisingly versatile and nutritious. Learn how to make this delicious treat made with the flower heads.
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A Field Guide to Fairies: Aillen Mac Midhna
Armed with a magical mantle, a pipe, and timpan, this Chief among the Aos Sí would come each year to Samhain to burn Tara. Were there any among the men of Ireland that could stop him?
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The Irish Timpan: Predecessor to the Harp?
Described in "The Silva Gadelicia", there is an obscure musical instrument favoured by the Aos Sí and master musicians of Ireland's past. With various descriptions, what actually was it? In this article, I attempt to find out.
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The Lady of Gollerus - An Irish Merrow Legend
Lovely Merrows, irresistible to mortal men, dwell in the seas off Ireland. This story tells of what happened when one poor fool fell in love with such a creature.
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A Field Guide to Fairies - Merrows
Ireland's Mer-folk often interact with us simple mortals. But beware, for Merrows tend to collect human souls!
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A Field Guide to Fairies - Aiken Drum
A Scottish Brownie with an appearance to give you nightmares. They say he is a good grafter though!
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A Field Guide to Fairies: Abbey Lubbers
Wreaking havoc, tempting monks into bad behaviour, and other general mischief, the Abbey Lubber is one fairy that won't be tamed with bread and honey!
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Tooth Worms and Weird Medieval Charms to Cure Toothache
Throughout history, humans have sought ways to be rid of the accursed toothache - some are more unusual than others!
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Vitamin C Filtering Shower-Heads - Are They Any Good?
Having seen ionizing shower-heads advertised, I was a little skeptical. Claiming to filter hard water & reduce chlorine and fluoride, whilst improving your skin & hair condition, they seemed too good to be true. I purchased one to see for myself if there was any truth to the benefits they claim.
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Visiting a Lavender Farm in the Picturesque English Cotswolds
When visiting England, you can enjoy the opportunity to wander sweeping fields of soothing lavender hidden within the Cotswolds Area of Natural Beauty. Only open to visitors during the summer months, read here about how to get the most out of your visit!
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What Are the Best Tomato Varieties to Grow for Making Sauces?
Tomatoes are a staple crop for the allotment and also grow well in containers in the garden or on a balcony. But which varieties are the best for creating your own delicious fresh sauces?
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Magical Mazes and Labyrinths of the British Isles
A brief tour of some of Britain's most intriguing mazes, including Troytown, Tintagel, the Mizmaze of Winchester, Saffron Walden, and more!
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Twelfth Night Traditions
Marking the end of Christmas, Twelfth Night is celebrated with various customs and traditions.
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5 Easy Slime Recipes
Kids love making and playing with slime! This article contains five different stretchy, putty, fluffy, glittery, and physics-defying slimes. These easy recipes will keep kids busy for hours.
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Queen Rat - Victorian London's Shape Shifter
Shape-shifting sewer rats and treasure seekers beneath London's streets. The story of Queen Rat is one of London's more unusual myths.
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New Year's Traditions & Superstitions of Britain & Ireland
We're a superstitious lot, and we do love our little rituals. New Year is a big celebration and we all want to make sure we bring in good luck for the coming year.
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Arctic Vacations - Lapland Adventures: Husky Sledding in the Forest
Fast-paced and exciting, there is nothing quite like riding with the pack in the beautiful forests in the Pyhä-Luosto region of Finnish Lapland. Hold on to your hat!
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Arctic Vacations - Lapland Adventures: Jaakkola Reindeer Farm
Deep in the forest, a secret is to be found. Experience a Reindeer Safari, traditional cuisine, fishing, snowmobiles, a taster of Sámi culture, and much more at Jaakkola Reindeer Farm!
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Arctic Vacations - Lapland Adventures: Luosto's Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
Treasure hunting in the Land of the Midnight Sun! Blazing along a snowy trail on a snowmobile to an amethyst mine on a hilltop overlooking the pristine forested Pyhä-Luosto National Park was quite an unforgettable experience and one well worth participating in if you ever visit Luosto in Lapland.
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Birmingham Folklore - The Ghosts of Aston Hall
Reputed to be Birmingham's most haunted building, Aston Hall's troubled history is revealed through dark tales of its history... and its ghosts!
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Spring-Heeled Jack: A London Terror
In the 1800s, a terrifying being with supernatural powers began to attack women in the city of London. Was this devilish creature myth or man; and what could be done to stop him?
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Tom Crean – Ireland's Great Antarctic Explorer
Annascaul's gentle giant, modest adventurer, animal lover, and publican. The incredible inspiring story of Tom Crean is on that should be read by all.
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The White Cow of Mitchell's Fold
This folktale from Shropshire describes how villagers were saved from drought by a fairy cow, until a wicked witch stepped in.
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The Fall of the Throckmorton Arms
Coughton Court in Warwickshire is one of England's finest Tudor houses. Local folklore tells of how the crest falling marked a moment of great tragedy for the House and the Throckmorton family.
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Review of "The British Book of Spells and Charms" by Graham King
Looking for a good British book of spells? This might just be the book for you. Graham King has carefully compiled a book of traditional folk magic from the British Isles. Read on for all my thoughts on this intriguing tome.
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The Snarling - Independent British Werewolf Movie Review
This chilling and hilarious werewolf movie has all the makings of a cult classic. If you enjoyed Shaun of the Dead, you're going to love this one!
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St. Barnabas and Old Midsummer
The summer solstice was celebrated in England on 11th June before the switch to the Gregorian Calendar. Learn about old customs of how this day was celebrated.
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Trolls of Denmark
Around the landscape of Denmark can be seen evidence of trolls. Their caves, mounds, and holes dot the landscape. Are they really fierce savage monsters, though?
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Storm Callers: The Art of Weather Magic
Bad weather was disastrous to communities of old, and weather-related calamities still occur in modern times. Can people really charm the skies?
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Bleigiessen - The German New Year's Custom of Divining with "Lead"
Bleigiessen, a form of molybdomancy, is a traditional German New Year's Eve activity whereby molten lead is dropped into water. The shapes formed are believed to foretell what the coming year will bring. Find out how to do it here, and what the shapes mean.
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Platy Problems: Dealing With a Bully
Praised as a gentle and friendly breed, the Platy is a perfect starter fish for anyone setting up an aquarium. But what do you do when one of your fish becomes aggressive?
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How to Make Your Own Corn Dolly: The Gentleman’s Favour
These traditional corn dollies are simple to create, and make wonderful decorations for jackets or hats during harvest festivals. Learn how to make one of your own in this easy guide!
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The Warring Giants of Dudley and Birmingham
A curious relic can be found in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter known as the War Stone. Legend tells us it was left behind after an epic battle between two giants, but it may also reveal a lost castle.
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How to Make a Corn Dolly (Wheat Weaving a Harvest Heart)
Corn dollies are a traditional craft using straws from wheat, rye, and other grains. Learn how to make a beautiful Harvest Heart inwiththis easy tutorial. If you can plait or braid, you can make one of these!
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How to Make a Rowan Necklace for Magical Protection
The virtues of Rowan, also known as Mountain Ash, have long been celebrated in folk-magic. This article teaches you how to make your own necklace from the berries.
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The Routine Job
A Tactical Squad of the Ultramarines Fifth Company is sent forth on a mission on Calth to escort a troubled repair crew. A short story set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
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Ghosts on Wheels - Mysterious Phantom Vehicles
I'd always laughed at accounts of ghostly cars or trucks spotted late at night on lonely roads. Until that is, it happened to me...
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The Cornish Harvest Festival of Guldize
There are many harvest festivals around Britain & Ireland. Learn about Guldize, a festival from Cornwall, and how it is celebrated.
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Crooker Waits: A Retelling of a Classic Folktale
This chilling folktale from the Dales of Derbyshire in England describes a fearful character that preys on unwary travellers. Only the Fair Folk can save the day!
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River Mermaids: The Mermaid of Marden
This legend from Herefordshire pits the wits of the locals against a mermaid when their church bell goes missing. What makes it unusual is that the mermaid lives far from the sea in the River Lugg.
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The River Daughters of Plynlimon
The Severn, Wye, and Ystwyth, weave their way to the sea from the Elenydd plateau in Wales. Folklore tells how their journeys began.
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The Runic Ringerike Tombstone of St Paul's
An astonishing piece of Viking period art was found in the churchyard of St. Paul's Cathedral, London, in the 19th Century. Who put it there, and why?
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A Worcester Archaeology Dig - What Lies Beneath Lich Street
This article provides a rare opportunity to study the buried history of Lich Street in Worcester thanks to streetworks in the area in 2015. I was lucky enough to view the site before it was buried again.
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Bloodlines - A Story of Heritage and Irish Ancestry
This is a personal tale of my family, and how my grandfather's decision to leave Ireland paved the way for a better life.
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Did St. Brendan Discover America?
Irish legend tells of a fifth century saint setting forth on an incredible voyage. Did he discover the Americas before Columbus or even Leif Ericson?
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The Ghost of Rhuddlan Castle
Rhuddlan Castle in Wales is said to be haunted by the spirit of a maiden who refused her father's wishes to marry. The story of the Knight of the Blood Red Plume tells how her ghost came to be.
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Bovington's Haunted Tiger Tank
In this article, we'll take a look at the legend of a spirit of a German soldier that is said to haunt a tank museum in Dorset.
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How to Make a Gwr Gwellt Straw Man for May Day
The Straw Man is a simple corn dolly, made during May Day festivities in North Wales. Learn about the folklore behind this item, and follow simple instructions on how to make your own.
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Am Fear Liath Mòr: A Scottish Terror
Sightings of a giant grey man pursuing mountaineers have baffled and terrified the Cairngorms since the 19th century. Does Scotland have its own Yeti?
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The Enigma of Saint George
A brave holy knight who rescued a fair maiden from a dragon is England's patron saint. But are we getting our Georges mixed up? Was he a man of peace or a figurehead of the Crusaders?
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Worcester's Tudor House
Located on one of the city's most picturesque streets, Tudor House on Friar Street is a must-see historic attraction in Worcester. With free entry, it makes for a perfect family day out.
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The Riddle of the Silver Brooch of Aedwen
Mysterious runes on the back of an Anglo-Saxon brooch have been baffling the experts for decades. Could it possibly bear a curse?
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The Norse King's Sorcerous Daughter
This is a Scottish folktale set during the times of Viking raids around the Western Isles—pitches Norse magic against that of the local Gaelic inhabitants.
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The Witch of Treva - A Cornish Legend
This folk tale from Cornwall describes how a witch not only terrified the locals, but had a remarkable ability to turn into a hare.
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A Solar Eclipse in Britain, 20th March 2015 - with pictures
The Vernal Equinox of 2015 was extra special. The British Isles experienced a partial solar eclipse. I was lucky enough to observe the event and take plenty of photographs.
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Superstitions About Solar Eclipses
A solar eclipse was once seen as a portent of doom that indicated the end of the world was near! We look at some of the superstitions around this astronomical event.
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The Seax of Beagnoth, an Enchanted Blade
Also known as the Thames Scramasax, this Anglo-Saxon treasure is inscribed with runes from the Anglo-Saxon alphabet. One of Britain's great treasures from the 10th Century; could it be a magical blade?
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The Goblin in the Forest - A Children's Tale
A boy and a girl get lost in the woods and find a goblin. Inspired by the Brothers' Grimm, this short story is all about not wandering off, and talking to your parents if you find any dangers.
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How Is Shrove Tuesday Celebrated Around the World?
Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Day, Mardi Gras... the Tuesday before the start of Lent is known by many names. See how it is celebrated in a selection of different countries.
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Celebrating the Apple Trees - A Worcestershire Orchard Wassail
One of the Wassailing traditions is to toast the apple trees and scare away any blight lurking in the orchards. I headed to Worcestershire, England, to take part in a traditional orchard wassail.
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How to Make a St. Brigid's Cross
Follow these simple instructions to make a beautiful cross, traditionally made for St. Brigid's Day & the festival of Imbolc. So easy to make, even children can have a go at this fun activity.
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Clotted Scream! Terrifying Tales from Cornwall
Cornwall is a region of the British Isles that is rich in folklore & superstition. Here is a selection of some of the more chilling tales featuring The Gump, Jan Tregeagle, & Portreath's giant, Wrath.
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A New Year's Day Mummers' Play
Mumming takes place mainly during the Christmas period in Britain. This costumed custom of performing is a part of folk tradition that dates back centuries. I visited one such play to find out more.
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Hogmanay, Trollolay! Exploring the Origins of the Scottish New Year
Hogmanay is the name given to the New Year festival by the people of Scotland. We look at the origins of this, and some of the customs around it. Could the Vikings have brought it over with them?
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The Magic of Mistletoe: Customs, Lore, and Superstitions of This Festive Favourite
Why do people kiss under the mistletoe? We look at the origins of this custom, the kissing bough, prophetic dreams, and other traditions around this festive plant now associated with Christmas.
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The Tenbury Mistletoe Festival & National Mistletoe Day
Tenbury Wells in Worcestershire prides itself as England's mistletoe capital. An annual event in the run-up to Christmas celebrates this festive plant which grows in abundance in the region.
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Norse Symbols - Thor's Hammer
Many modern Heathens choose to wear a hammer pendant as a symbol of their faith. But what does it mean? And what is the history behind it?
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Understanding the Fylgjur of Norse Mythology
Appearing in Norse mythology, a Fylgja is a creature that is said to accompany a person throughout life. In this article, we'll look at this complicated being and try to understand its role.
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Loch a'Dúin Valley: Hiking in the Dingle Peninsula
Situated near Clochan, in Kerry, Ireland, the Lough Adoon Valley at Ballyhoneen contains rock art, wedge tombs, ancient settlements and monuments from the Bronze Age to Early Christian times. Let's explore Ireland's historic past.
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The Youghal Halloween Festival & The Legend of An Bhean Uisce
A small town on the coast of County Cork, Ireland, is making waves when it comes to Halloween. Youghal be mad to miss this!
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Welsh Monsters - The Dreaded Gwiber
The gwiber is a monster that features in Welsh folklore which is described as a giant winged serpent. This article looks at the beast in more detail, giving an example of its appearance in North Wales
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The Lost Sword of Tyrn Gorthad, a Tribute to M.R. James & J.R.R. Tolkien
Anyone that knows me will be aware of my love of the works of J. R. R. Tolkien, and M. R. James. The two come together in this tribute piece; a chilling tale of Burgling in the Barrow Downs.
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Sabrina—Fair Goddess of the River Severn
The River Severn is the longest in Great Britain and it has its own goddess—Sabrina (also called Hafren, Habren, Habrenna, and Unla). In this article, we'll learn about the legends of this great river and its goddess.
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Memento Mori and Folklore: The Grim Habit of Keeping Skulls
Around the British Isles, there are numerous old houses that contain a human skull. Some act as a talisman, whilst dire warnings are given about removing others. We investigate these macabre trophies.
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Vampires in British Folklore
Vampires in British and Irish fiction are well known; Bram Stoker's Dracula being the most familiar of all. But tales of vampires in folklore are rather rare indeed. Read about some of them here.
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A Traditional English Halloween
How do the English celebrate Halloween? A personal look at some activities and party games that were popular in the 20th Century on the night when all things spooky are celebrated.
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Michaelmas and Mop Fairs - Lore and Traditions of an English Festival
29th September is an important day in the British Folk Calendar. There are many events and traditions around this date, including mop fairs, feasts, and the devil's spit!
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Irish Festivals - Killorglin's Puck Fair
King Puck is crowned in this annual Irish festival. Did I mention he's a mountain goat?
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Norse Magic - Vardlokkur - The Song of the Völva
Referred to in the Sagas of the Norse, the vardlokkur was sung during the rite of a Völva;a type of seeress. This article explores what it actually is and the purpose it serves.
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Seidhr - Magic of the Norse
Seiðr (also known as seidhr, seith, seidh, seidr, and seithr) covers a broad range of magical practices within the Norse myths. But what exactly is it? And is this art strictly limited to women?
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Riasc Monastic Settlement: Dingle Peninsula's Early Christian Site
One of Ireland's best early Irish Christian settlements, Riasc (Riaisc, Reask), boasts a fine collection of inscribed stones. One of the hidden gems of the Dingle Peninsula, who built it and when?
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Shakespeare Morris: Traditional Dancing in England
The Shakespeare Morris Side, keepers of the Bidford Dances of the Cotswold tradition, are a regular sight in Stratford, England. I caught up with one of the dancers to learn more about Morris Dancing.
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Legendary and Mythological Creatures of Lakes of Wales
We look at some of the strange things that dwell beneath Welsh waters including Llyn Tegid's monster Teggie, Afanc of Llyn Glasslyn, & the beautiful but deadly Nelferch of Llyn-y-Forwyn.
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Tracking Herne the Hunter
Often depicted as a lost Pagan god of Britain, Herne is sometimes compared to the horned god, Cernunnos. We explore this character in more depth to see if there is any truth in these assumptions.
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Wild Edric - An Anglo-Saxon Legend
The Long Mynd in Shropshire is a stunning area of natural beauty, and is rich in legends. Wild Edric's myth featuring Elves, wild hunts, and true love, is one of Britain's lesser known fairy-tales.
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Secret Staves of the Icelandic Witches
Exploring the iconic Icelandic magic staves and their origins.
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The Beehive Huts of County Kerry, Ireland: Dingle Peninsula
It would be impossible to visit Ireland's Dingle Peninsula without seeing a clochán, more commonly known as a beehive hut. Who built them, and how old are they?
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Cahersiveen's Fairy Fort
Cahergall Stone Fort, near Cahersiveen in County Kerry, Ireland, is home to more than the shadows of the people that once dwelt here.
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Curative Springs of Ireland - Gleann na nGealt, Valley of the Mad
Tucked away in the Dingle Peninsula of South West Ireland, Gleann na nGealt hides a mysterious secret. The spring waters are supposed to be able to heal the mad. Is there any truth to the folk tales?
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The Magic of Blarney Castle
It is said that whoever kisses the Blarney Stone is granted the Gift of the Gab. We explore further lore of Blarney Castle, including links with the Celtic Goddess, Clíodhna.
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The Black Country: Last Haven of the Mercian Tongue
A little-known dialect from the Midlands of England echoes the language spoken by the Anglo-Saxons.
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The Legend of Saint Kenelm's Holy Well
St Kenelm's Church, near Romsley, is nestled in the Clent Hills in Worcestershire. Home to a holy well, this article explores the legend of a young Saxon prince and his death.