Destination |
Folklore, Custom or Legend |
Abbots Ann, Hampshire |
The custom of hanging the ‘Maidens Garlands’ in the local church
in memory of deceased virgins dates back to the early eighteenth
century. |
Abbots Bromley, Staffordshire |
The ancient Horn Dance takes place here each September.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-September.htm
 |
Abbotsbury, Dorset |
Garland Day is still celebrated here each May
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Abingdon, Oxfordshire |
The traditional election of the Mayor of Ock Street is held in
mid-July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Adderbury Oxfordshire |
Local folklore connects the Devil with the church spire. |
Alfriston, Susex |
The shape of the Church of St Andrews is said to have been
inspired by four oxen. |
Allendale, Northumberland |
Tubs of blazing tar are carried through the streets during the
New Year’s Eve Fire Festival.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Alnwick, Northumberland |
Traditional Shrove Tuesday Football is played annually.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Ambleside, Cumbria |
A rush-bearing ceremony takes place on the last Sunday in July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Appleby-in-Westmorland |
Britain’s largest horse-fair takes place in June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Ashbourne, Derbyshire |
Shrovetide Football is played with goal a mere 3 miles apart.
The village is also know for well-dressing.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Ashford, Derbyshire |
The tradition of well-dressing takes place in May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Aston on Clun, Shropshire |
Arbor Day celebrations take place in May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Athelney, Somerset |
King Alfred hid from his enemies and burned those famous cakes
when sheltering in a cottage here. |
Atherstone, Warwickshire |
A venue for the annual Shrovetide Football event.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Bacup, Lancashire |
Famous for the mildly eccentric ‘Nutters Dance’!
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Badbury Rings, Dorset |
An Iron Age hillfort associated with Mount Badon, where King
Arthur defeated the Saxons. |
Bakewell, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes
place in June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Bamburgh Castle, Nothumbria |
Associated with the legends of Sir Lancelot, also the haunt of
the Laidley Worm. |
Bampton, Oxfordshire |
The Bampton Morris Men annually celebrate Whit Monday in style.
 |
Bardney, Lincolnshire |
A shaft of holy light appeared before the monks of Bardney when
they refused to accept the bones of St Oswald. |
Barlow, Derbyshire |
The well-dressing tradition is practised every August.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Barnsdale, Yorkshire |
Believed by many to be the true home of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. |
Barrowden, Leicestershire |
A traditional rush-bearing ceremony takes place here each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Barwick-in-Elmet |
Famous for its Maypole dancing event.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Baslow, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place here each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Bath, Somerset |
Associated with legend of the leper Prince Bladud, who
discovered the healing power of the spa. |
Berden, Hertfordshire |
The annual ceremony of the enthroning of the Boy Bishops takes
place here each December.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Berkeley, Gloucestershire |
The Witch of Berkeley was carried away to hell by the Devil on a
horse covered with spikes. |
Berry Pomeroy, Devon |
Preferring death to dishonour, two brothers rode their horses
off the castle ramparts after a failed rebellion attempt. |
Berwick-upon-Tweed |
The annual ceremony of Blessing the Salmon Nets takes place here
each February.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Biddenden, Kent |
In memory of a pair of Siamese twins, the Biddenden Dole gifts
are distributed each Easter Sunday.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Bideford, Devon |
Each New Year’s Day, at the custom known as Andew’s Dole, loaves
of bread are given out.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Biggar, Strathclyde |
Each New Year’s Eve a traditional celebration known as ‘Burning
the Old Year Out’ takes place.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Blidworth, Nottinghamshire |
A cradle-rocking ceremony takes place each February in the local
church.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Bloxham, Oxfordshire |
A local legend connects the Devil with the church spire. |
Blythburgh, Suffolk |
Back in 1577, evil spirits came a calling at Blythburgh’s Church
of the Holy Trinity. |
Bonsall, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place here each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Bourne, Lincolnshire |
The annual running auction is held each Easter Monday.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Braemar, Grampian |
The Royal Highland Gathering meets each September.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-September.htm |
Bradwell, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place here each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Brandeston, Suffolk |
The Witchfinder-General Mathew Hopkins, sentenced the Rev’d John
Lowes to be hanged for witchcraft in 1645. |
Braunton, Devon |
Braunton’s first church was founded by St Brannoc, who had
sailed from Wales in a stone coffin. |
Bristol, Somerset |
Each Whit Sunday a rush-bearing procession takes place at St
Mary Redcliffe’s Church.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Brockworth, Gloucestershire |
Each Spring Bank Holiday cheeses are rolled down Cooper’s Hill.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Bromsgrove, Worcestershire |
Associated with a legend that involves the slaying of a magical
boar by Sir Rylas. The head appears on the towns’ coat of arms. |
Buckland, Surrey |
The village was once terrorised by a fearsome creature known as
the Buckland Shag. |
Burghead, Grampian |
An ancient fire festival known as the ‘Burning the Clavie’ is
celebrated each January.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Buxton, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place here each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Cadbury Castle, Somerset |
The Iron Age hillfort believed by many to be the most likely
site of King Arthur’s Camelot. |
Calder Valley, Yorkshire |
The traditional Pace-Egg Play is performed each Good Friday.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Callington, Cornwall |
The ancient Christian Depth Well is signposted from the village
centre |
Canewdon, Essex |
A local legend connects the tower of St Nicholas’s Church with
seven witches. |
Carhampton, Somerset |
The tradition of Wassailing the cider apple trees is held on the
Old Twelfth Night.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Carlisle, Cumbria |
Several Arthurian legends are connected to the city. |
Carmarthen, Dyfed |
Celebrated as where Merlin’s Oak grew, also for Job’s Healing
Well. |
Castleton, Derbyshire |
Garland King Day celebrates Charles II’s escape from the Roundheads each May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Chanctonbury Ring, Sussex |
A hillfort linked with legends of buried treasure, druids and
the Devil himself. |
Charing, Kent |
The Hooden Horse celebrations are thought to have been brought
to Kent by the invading Jutes.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Charlton-on-Otmoor, Oxfordshire |
Traditional May Day celebrations include Garland Dressing and
Maypole dancing.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Chelmorton, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Chelmsford, Essex |
One of the most infamous sites associated with the witchcraft
trials. |
Chester, Cheshire |
The Miracle Plays take place in July every fifth year. The next
is scheduled for 2008.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm
With kind permission & courtesy of Chester Mystery Plays |
Chester-le-Street, Durham |
The Shrove Tuesday football match is an annual event.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Chichester, Sussex |
Blessing the Plough Ceremony takes place on the first Sunday
following Twelfth Night.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Christchurch, Hampshire |
Local legend recalls how divine intervention helped to construct
the town’s priory church. |
Cilgerran, Cardiganshire |
Venue for the annual coracle races that take place each August.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Cleator Moor, Cumbria |
Pilgrims arrive to pray at the replica shrine of Our Lady of
Lourdes. |
Combe Martin, Devon |
Over the Spring Bank Holiday the village practices the
seventeenth century custom of ‘The Hunting of the Earl of Rone’. |
Comrie, Tayside |
‘Burning the Old Year Out’ is celebrated each 31st December.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Constable Sands, Cheshire |
These sand bars on the River Dee commemorate a miracle by St
Werburga. |
Corfe Castle, Dorset |
King Edward the Martyr was murdered here by order of his
stepmother.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-March.htm |
Cottingley, West Yorkshire |
Setting for those controversial ‘Cottingley Fairies’
photographs. |
Coventry, West Midlands |
Site of Lady
Godiva’s naked ride. |
Deerhurst, Gloucestershire |
For years the townsfolk lived in fear of a dragon until it was
slain. |
Derwentwater, Cumbria |
St Herbert’s Isle in Derwentwater is named after the holy hermit
who once lived there. |
Devil’s Bridge, Cumbria |
Legend tells that the Devil built the bridge across the River
Lune in order to trap an old woman. |
Devil’s Dyke, Sussex |
An old woman saved the local folk by outwitting the Devil |
Dewsbury, Yorkshire |
A bell known as Black Tom tolls every Christmas Eve to keep the
Devil from the streets of Dewsbury.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Dilston, Northumberland |
Linked with supernatural occurrences after the Jacobite leader
James Radcliffe was beheaded in London. |
Dore, Yorkshire |
Well-dressing takes place here each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Duloe, Cornwall |
Site of St Cuby’s holy well. |
Dunmow, Essex |
Each leap year the Dunmow Flitch Trial is held in order to
establish the couple who share marital bliss.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Dunster, Somerset |
Hobby Horse celebrations take place each May Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
East Dereham, Norfolk |
Site of a convent founded by St Withburga in the seventh
century. Her holy well and shrine are close to St Nicholas’s
church. |
Ebernoe, Sussex |
Site of the Horn Fair held each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Edenbridge, Kent |
Bonfire celebrations take place on 5th November.
www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/England-History/GuyFawkes.htm |
Edinburgh, Lothian |
The Beltane Fire Festival takes place annually.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Edmondthorpe, Leicestershire |
The effigy of local witch, Lady Ann Smith, can be seen in St
Michael’s Church. It is said that she could turn herself into a
cat. |
Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire |
The enthronement of Boy Bishops takes place each December.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Egremont, Cumbria |
The world Gurning (face-pulling) Championships are held each
September.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-September.htm |
Endon, Staffordshire |
Site of well-dressing and the ‘Tossing the Sheaf’ event. |
Etwall, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Eyam, Derbyshire |
Famous as a ‘Plague Village’, which is commemorated annually at
an outdoor service every August.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Eynesbury, Huntingdonshire |
A local legend recalls a duel between two spear-throwing giants. |
Farne Islands, Northumberland |
Evil pagan spirits were soon evicted to the outlying islands
when St Cuthbert arrived there. |
Featherstone Castle, Northumberland |
The setting for the legend of the phantom wedding party. |
Fenny Stratford, Buckinghamshire |
The tradition of ‘Firing the Fenny Poppers’ takes place each St
Martin’s Day. |
Folkestone, Kent |
At various times and events during the year the Hooden Horse
makes an appearance. |
Foolow, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each August.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Fyvie Castle, Aberdeenshire |
Site of the ‘Fyvie of the Weeping Stones’, the result of an
ancient curse. |
Gawthorpe, Yorkshire |
The May Day celebrations include Maypole dancing, and the May
Queen procession.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Glastonbury, Somerset |
The oldest Christian site in Britain, legendary burial place of
King Arthur and an even more ancient Leycentre.
http://www.historic-uk.com/DestinationsUK/Glastonbury.htm
|
Grasmere, Cumbria |
Every July a rush-bearing procession and church ceremony takes
place.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Great Corby, Cumbria |
The castle is associated with the Radiant Boy, one of England’s
best known ghosts. |
Great Melton, Norfolk |
Associated with sightings of ghostly horse-drawn coach with
headless coachman and passengers. |
Great Wishford, Wiltshire |
Each May villagers gather to celebrate Oak Apple Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Griffydam, Leicestershire |
The griffin that terrorised the village was eventually put to
the sword by a knight. |
Griston, Norfolk |
Wayland Wood is the supposed setting for the Babes in the Wood
folk-tale. |
Guiseley, Yorkshire |
St Oswald’s is the setting for the custom of Clipping the Church
each August.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Hallaton, Leicestershire |
Venue for the Easter Monday Bottle Kicking and Hare Pie
Scramble.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Handale, Yorkshire |
Home of the Serpent of Handale, a local dragon that developed an
unhealthy appetite for the village womenfolk. |
Hartington, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each September.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-September.htm |
Harland Point, Devon |
Mass is celebrated by St Nectan’s holy well in June. |
Haselbury Plucknett, Somerset |
Once the home of the animal loving St Wulfric. |
Hastings, Sussex |
The traditional Blessing the Sea ceremony is still performed
just prior to Ascension Day. It is also the venue for the annual
Jack-in-the-Green festival. |
Hatherleigh, Devon |
Blazing tar barrels are rolled through the streets each
November.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Nov.htm |
Hathersage, Derbyshire |
The local churchyard is said to be the final resting place of
Robin Hood’s right-hand-man Little John. |
Haxley, Lincolnshire |
Famous for the Haxley Hood Game, played each year on the Feast
of Epiphany in January.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Heath, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Hell Gill Beck, Yorkshire |
Site of some stones that local legend says the Devil dropped
whilst building a nearby bridge. |
Helston, Cornwall |
Venue for the famous Furry Dance, which takes place each May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire |
The town mayors are traditionally weighed in order to check
their diligence.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Hinton St George, Somerset |
The venue for Punky Night celebrations each October.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Oct.htm |
Holmwood, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place every July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Holywell, Cambridgeshire |
The well that gave its name to the village was reputed to cure
eye ailments. |
Holywell, Flintshire |
Some have referred to it as ‘The Lourdes of England’. St
Winefride’s Well is to be found on the edge of town. |
Holmesfield, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place every July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Hope, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place in June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Hungerford, Berkshire |
A medieval custom known as The Hungerford Hocktide Festival or
Tutti Day is still celebrated.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Ickerwell Green, Bedfordshire |
May Day celebrations include Maypole dancing.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Innerleithen, Peebles |
Venue for the annual Cleikum Ceremonies and burning the De’il’. |
Jarrow, Durham |
Within the church of St Paul’s is a chair believed to have been
used by the Venerable Bede. It was once the custom for brides to
sit in the saint’s chair to enhance their fertility. |
Jedburgh, Roxborough |
The famous ball game is held here each February.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Kentchurch, Herefordshire |
The home of the legendary Jack o’ Kent, who is said to have got
the better of the Devil. |
Keynsham, Somerset |
Legend has it that the ammonites found here
are the petrified remains of snakes that St Keyne turned to stone. They
still decorate some of the cottage walls in Keynsham |
Kilve, Somerset |
Once frequented by the fearsome Blue Ben, a dragon, said to have
been the mount of the Devil himself. |
King’s Lynn, Norfolk |
The town is famous for its Valentine Fair.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Kirklees Park, Yorkshire |
One legend claims that Robin Hood died at the local nunnery, he
was buried where his arrow landed. |
Knaresborough, Yorkshire |
Britain’s most famous prophetess Mother Shipton was born in a
cave on the edge of town in 1488. |
Knutsford, Cheshire |
Home of the annual Royal May Day Festival.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Lambton Castle, Durham |
Legend recalls that the famous Lambton Worm, a local dragon, met
its bitter end here sometime in the fifteenth century. |
Lanark, Strathclyde |
Associated with the unique Whuppity Scoorie custom.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-March.htm |
Land’s End, Cornwall |
Where the fabled land of Lyonesse once joined Britain. |
Lane End, Hampshire |
The twelfth century Tichborne Dole ceremony is still practised
on Lady Day each March.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-March.htm |
Little Cornard, Suffolk |
Where two dragons fought in the fifteenth century. |
Little Salkeld, Cumbria |
Site of the stone circle know as Long Meg and her daughters,
said to be a petrified sabbat of witches’. |
Little Chester, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place every May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Litton, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Llanarth, Cardigan |
The Devil was forced to jump from the church tower. |
Llanenddwyn, Gwynedd |
The water from the well of St Enddwyn was said to be able to
cure various eye and skin diseases, including King’s Evil. |
Llanfor, Merioneth |
A village once terrorised by a satanic pig. |
Llangollen, Powys |
Home to the International Music Eisteddfod.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
London Sites |
Buckingham Palace |
Site of the Changing of the Guard Ceremony |
Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace |
Venue for the distribution of the Royal Epiphany Gifts.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Church of St Andrew Undershaft |
The Stow Commemoration honours the famous London historian.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-April.htm |
City of London |
The Lord Mayor’s Show takes place each November.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Nov.htm
Lord Mayors Show
Photograph ©
Corporation of London |
St Ethelreda’s Church, Ely Place |
Venue for the healing ceremony known as ‘Blessing the Throats’.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Guildhall, City of London |
Signor Pasquale Favale’s Bequest is celebrated each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm
The election of the Lord Mayor of the City of London takes place
in September.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-September.htm |
Horse Guards Parade |
The annual Trooping the Colour event takes place in June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
London Bridge |
The world’s oldest rowing event, Doggett’s Coat and Badge Race,
starts from the Old Swan Pier on a day nearest to 1st August, dictated by the state of the tide.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Mansion House |
The Knolly’s Rose Ceremony is still observed each Midsummer’s
Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Marble Arch |
The annual Tyburn Walk ends here on the last Sunday in April.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-April.htm |
Royal Hospital, Chelsea |
Founder’s Day is celebrated each May in memory of Charles II.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
St Clement Danes |
To hear the peal (or should that be peel?) of ‘Oranges and
lemons say the bells of St Clemens’.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-March.htm |
Smithfield |
Each Good Friday at the Church of St Bartholomew the Great, the
annual distribution of hot cross buns takes place.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Tower of London |
Each night the Ceremony of the Keys takes place, and every three
years Beating the Bounds is still practised.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Trafalgar Square |
The execution of Charles I is commemorated by a ceremony of
remembrance in January.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
| |
Long Compton, Warwickshire |
It was once said that ‘There are enough witches in Long Compton
to draw a load of hay up Long Compton Hill.’ |
Long Stanton, Cambridgeshire |
Back in 1657 local Quakers were accused of using witchcraft to
turn Margaret Pryor into a horse. |
Longor, Staffordshire |
Well-dressing takes place every September.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-September.htm |
Lyminster, Sussex |
Once the home of a dragon with an unhealthy taste for maidens. |
Marden, Hertfordshire |
Site of St Ethelbert’s miraculous well. |
Marhamchurch, Cornwall |
The annual Marhamchurch Revel commemorates St Marwenne, who
brought Christianity to the village.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire |
The tower of the local church is not connected to the main
building, because as legend recalls, the Devil tried to steal
it. |
Meon Hill, Warwickshire |
It is said that the prayers offered up by St Egwin at this site,
thwarted the Devil’s attempt to destroy Evesham Abbey. |
Middleton, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place in May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Minehead, Somerset |
Hobby Horse celebrations take place each May Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Minsterley, Shropshire |
It is from Minsterley that Wild Edric will ride from when
Britain next needs his sword. |
Moneyash, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Mousehole, Cornwall |
A prophecy made by Merlin was fulfilled, when in 1595 Spanish
warships destroyed the village. |
Munlochy, Highland |
One of Scotland’s famous ‘cloutie’ wells in located nearby. |
Newarch, Nottinghamshire |
Penny Loaf Day is celebrated each March.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-March.htm |
Newchurch-in-Pendle, Lancashire |
The surrounding area was home to those notorious Lancashire
Witches. |
Norton, Northamptonshire |
St Patrick is said to have worked here as a farmer, until he
became convinced that God wanted him to go to Ireland. |
Nunnington, Yorkshire |
Peter Loschy, the slayer of a magical dragon is said to be
buried in Nunnington Church. |
Odell, Bedfordshire |
When the Devil shook the building in a rage he left his marks on
the church porch. |
Olney, Buckinghamshire |
From the market square to the church, the course for the famous
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Race.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Orford, Suffolk |
A thirteenth-century legend recalls that a merman known as ‘The
Wild Man of Orford’ was caught in the net of a local fisherman. |
Ottery St Mary, Devon |
Each 5th November flaming tar barrels are rolled
through the main street.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Nov.htm |
Oxford, Oxfordshire |
On May Day choristers from Magdalen College climb to the top of
the college tower to sing a Latin hymn.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Padstow, Cornwall |
Site of the famous ‘Obby ‘Oss’ celebrations each May Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Paganhill, Gloucestershire |
An aptly named venue for May Day Maypole dancing.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Par, Cornwall |
Boy Bishops are enthroned here each December.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Peebles, Border |
Venue for the Beltane Festival, one of Scotland’s oldest Celtic
celebrations.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Pelham, Hertfordshire |
Within the local churchyard is buried the dragon-slayer Piers
Shonks. |
Penhale, Cornwall |
Beneath the shifting Penhale Sands lie the lost town and people
of Langarroc. The holy
well in the village is connected with a fifth century virgin
called St Keyne who performed miracles.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Oct.htm |
Penrith, Cumbria |
The giant Ewan Caesarius is buried in rather a large grave in St
Andrew’s churchyard. |
Piddinghoe, Kent |
Local children enjoy games and a tea party known as Little
Edith’s Treat each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Pluckley, Kent |
Reputed to be the most haunted village in England. |
Ponteland, Northumberland |
Venue for a wheelbarrow race held each New Year’s Day. |
Port Isaac, Cornwall |
Near to the village lie the remains of Castle Damelioc; it was
here that Gorlois, Earl of Cornwall, was slain by Uther
Pendragon. |
Preston, Lancashire |
Each Easter Monday the ancient custom of Pace Egging is enjoyed
in Avenham Park.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm
PACE-EGGERS 2001
- ©John
Frearsonace |
Renwick, Cumbria |
"When pulling
down the old church, the people were startled by a hideous
monster which flew amongst the ruins …one more courageous than
the rest John Tallantire - succeeded in destroying the monster.” |
Rillaton, Cornwall |
The area surrounding the manor was once the ‘haunt’ of a phantom
Druid. |
Roche, Cornwall |
Site of a Holy Well said to contain waters for soothing the
insane. |
Rothbury, Northumberland |
Venue for annual Shrove Tuesday football match.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Roslin, Midlothian |
The nearby Rosslyn Chapel is renowned for its carvings, grail tourists can
walk in the footsteps of the Knights Templar. |
Rowsley, Derbyshire |
The site of well-dressing each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Rudston, Yorkshire |
Britain’s
tallest monolith (standing stone), with a height of almost eight
metres, is situated in the village churchyard. Legend recalls
that the devil threw the stone at the nearby church but missed. |
Runswick, Yorkshire |
A nearby cave called Hob Hole was once the home of a brownie
that could cure whooping-cough. |
St Albans, Hertfordshire |
St Alban, England’s first Christian martyr, was executed on a
nearby hill. |
St Andrews, Fife |
Students from the University take part in the Kate Kennedy
Procession each April.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-April.htm |
St Bees, Cumbria |
Named after St Bega, who was shipwrecked nearby. |
St Briavels, Gloucestershire |
Each Whit Sunday, the Bread and Cheese Dole is distributed.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
St Columb Major, Cornwall |
Hurling the Silver Ball is played each Shrove Tuesday.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
St Ives, Cornwall |
The ancient game of Hurling the Silver Ball is played in honour
of St Ia. |
St Ives, Huntingdonshire |
A custom known as Dicing for Bibles takes place each Whit
Monday.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
St Keverne, Cornwall |
A custom known as Crying the Neck takes place at harvest time. |
St Keyne, Cornwall |
Newly-weds race each other to the water from her well, as the
first to taste it will be the dominant partner.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Oct.htm |
St Leonard’s Forest, Sussex |
Once the home of a dragon that was finally slain by St Leonard. |
St Osyth, Essex |
After being found guilty of witchcraft, Ursula Kemp and
Elizabeth Bennett were hanged here in 1582. |
St Weonards, Hertfordshire |
The Saxon Saint Weonard is said to be buried in a golden coffin
within a burial mound close to the church. |
Sedgefield, County Durham |
The annual Shrovetide Football game takes place on the village
green.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Servage Wood, Somerset |
Once the home of a dragon with an unhealthy appetite for ponies. |
Sewingshields, Nothumberland |
One of several sites where King Arthur and his Knights are said
to be lying in an enchanted sleep. |
Shapwick, Somerset |
The site where a number of pilgrims were murdered by Saxons as
they returned home from Rome. The crime was discovered when a
miraculous beam shed light on their resting place. |
Shawcross, Derbyshire |
A Shrove Tuesday football game takes place each year.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Shebbear, Devon |
The ancient custom of Turning the Devil’s Stone takes places
each November.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Nov.htm |
Shepton Mallet, Somerset |
Legend claims that the Devil once came a calling with his horse
and cart to take an old woman to Hell. |
Sherborne, Dorset |
The Pack Monday Fair which dates back to the thirteenth century
takes place each October. |
Sible Heddingham, Essex |
Site of the last recorded instance of a suspected witch enduring
the swimming test back in 1863. |
Southampton, Hampshire |
Venue for the two hundred year old bowls tournament, the
‘Knighthood of Southampton Old Green Championship’.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
South Dalton, Yorkshire |
Starting point for the ancient Kipling Cotes Derby. |
South Queensferry, West Lothian |
The Burry Man makes his annual appearance at the Ferry Fair each
August.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Stanton Drew, Somerset |
The site of group of megaliths, said to be petrified wedding
guests are locally known as the Devil’s Wedding. |
Stogursey, Somerset |
Legend recalls that pixies once lived in the nearby Bronze Age
Mound known as Wick Barrow. |
Stonehaven, Grampian |
A New Year’s Eve custom to ward off evil spirits includes
Swinging the Fireballs.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-December.htm |
Stonehenge, Wiltshire |
Modern Druids gather each year for midsummer celebrations.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Stony Middleton, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing site each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire |
The town celebrates its most famous son’s birthday, William
Shakespeare, on 23rd April.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-April.htm
 |
Sunbury, Surrey |
The ancient tradition of Swan Upping takes place each year on
the River Thames.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Symondsbury, Dorset |
A Mummer’s Play is staged each year on New Year’s Day. |
Talland, Cornwall |
A local legend tells of a phantom coach driven by a demon. |
Thaxted, Essex |
Venue for an annual Morris Dancing Festival.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Thirwall Castle, Northumberland |
Associated with a legend concerning a dwarf and a golden table. |
Thorpe, Yorkshire |
The nearby Devil’s Bridge acquired its name when a shoemaker
persuaded the Devil to build a bridge over the River Dibb. |
Tichborne, Hampshire |
Venue for the famous Tichborne Dole custom that dates back to
the twelfth century.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/TichborneDole.htm |
Tideswell, Derbyshire |
The site of well-dressing each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Tinsley Green, Sussex |
Venue for the annual Marble Championships.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Easter.htm |
Tintagel, Cornwall |
Legendary birthplace of King Arthur. |
Tissington, Derbyshire |
Venue for well-dressing each May.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Totnes, Devon |
The still unexplained phenomena known as the Devil’s Footprints
started here back in 1855.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/DevilsFootprints.htm |
Tresco, Isles of Scilly |
A cave known as Piper’s Hole was once the meeting place of
Mermaids. |
Truro, Cornwall |
Venue for a Christmas wassailing custom. |
Tunstall, Norfolk |
The bells of the local church were once stolen by the Devil. |
Twyford, Hampshire |
Every October the ‘Lost in the Dark Peal’ commemorates a man
being saved from death by the ringing of a church bell.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Oct.htm |
Ufton, Berkshire |
Each Lent the traditional Dole is distributed to the ‘poore of
Ufton’. |
Vale of the White Horse, Berkshire |
The site of England’s oldest hillside horse, the Uffington White
Horse.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/ChalkFigures.htm
 |
Wadsworth, Yorkshire |
Venue for Maypole dancing each May Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Walsingham, Norfolk |
The shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham was a popular destination
for pilgrims until it was destroyed in the Reformation. It was
restored in 1931.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Warcop, Cumbria |
On St Peter’s Day in June, a rush bearing procession is held in
the local church.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
Wareham, Dorset |
Each November the Leet Court convenes to consider matters of
local concern, the legacy of a once
powerful feudal court system. |
Watton, Norfolk |
A local legend recalls that following an unholy contract a
ghostly coach arrived to collect the soul of George Mace. |
Welford-on-Avon, Warwickshire |
Famous for its Maypole and May Day celebrations.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
West Hallam, Derbyshire |
Traditional well-dressing takes place each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Weston, Hertfordshire |
Within the churchyard is the rather large grave of the giant
Jack o’ Legs. |
West Witton, Yorkshire |
Each August on St Bartholomew’s Day, the custom known as
‘Burning the Bartle’ is practised.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-August.htm |
Whitby, Yorkshire |
In a custom dating back to 1159, local folk gather at the
harbour to ‘Plant the Penny Hedge’. |
Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire |
Straw Bear is celebrated here on the Saturday before Plough
Monday.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Whitwell, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each July.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Devon |
A traditional folk song recalls that Old Uncle Tom Cobleigh once
visited this Dartmoor village fair. |
Winchester, Hampshire |
St Swithin the ninth century Bishop of Winchester is best
remembered for his forty days of rain.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Windsor Castle, Berkshire |
The venue for an annual service dedicated to the memory of Charles I.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Jan.htm |
Wingrave, Buckinghamshire |
A hay-strewing tradition is held in the local church each July
on the Sunday nearest to St Peter’s Day.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-July.htm |
Winster, Derbyshire |
The venue for an annual pancake race since 1870.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-Feb.htm |
Wirksworth, Derbyshire |
The tradition of Clipping the Church takes place each September. |
Wishford, Wiltshire |
Villagers gather to preserve their Grovely Forest rights.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-May.htm |
Wool, Dorset |
As mentioned in ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’, a phantom coach
would occasionally appear at Woolbridge Manor. |
Woolpit, Suffolk |
Associated with the mysterious fairy Green Children. |
Wroughton on the Green, Buckinghamshire |
The ghosts of the famous highwayman Dick Turpin and his horse
Black Bess are still said to haunt the area. |
Youlgreave, Derbyshire |
Well-dressing takes place each June.
http://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/FolkloreYear-June.htm |
