60 acast.com Wyrd Folk https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com en Nikki Watson and Sam Moody folklore, writing, storytelling,mythology, competition, legends Nikki and Sam A duelling folklore podcast where the best retelling wins.

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]]>

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]]> false Nikki Watson nikki@wyrdfolkpod.com 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 wyrdfolkpod episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0/1760270339809-83a82537-8346-4d15-b723-0938872f1305.jpeg https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com Wyrd Folk Maiden Bower Hillfort Maiden Bower Hillfort Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT 37:34 69dffe222fdc372bd1901ff9 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69dffe222fdc372bd1901ff9 69dffe222fdc372bd1901ff9 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A single thread can build or break an nation. full 5 8 There is a story told about the earthworks at Maiden Bower in Bedfordshire. It is a story of challenge and cunning and an ox hide which must stretch to encompass an entire kingdom. How can this maiden save her people? With the cunning of the women throughout the centuries who have used their skills to save themselves and their people. Listen in this week to discover how this tiny hill fort is connected to the great city of Carthage and the myth of the minotaur.


Like the show? Then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or find us on www.wyrdfolkpod.com

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> There is a story told about the earthworks at Maiden Bower in Bedfordshire. It is a story of challenge and cunning and an ox hide which must stretch to encompass an entire kingdom. How can this maiden save her people? With the cunning of the women throughout the centuries who have used their skills to save themselves and their people. Listen in this week to discover how this tiny hill fort is connected to the great city of Carthage and the myth of the minotaur.


Like the show? Then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or find us on www.wyrdfolkpod.com

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Folklore Creators: Hwaet!zine Interview Folklore Creators: Hwaet!zine Interview Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT 44:50 69cc0bbe03f0e15830728fa2 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69cc0bbe03f0e15830728fa2 69cc0bbe03f0e15830728fa2 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Join us for a chat with George and Bunty from Hwaet!zine full 5 7 Hwaet! to our interview with the fabulous folklore creators behind Hwaet!zine. This week, we ask George Parr and Bunty May Marshall about the inspirations behind the issues of Hwaet!zine and their artistic process. Join us for Tolkien chat, tips for tours of the Orkney Isles and much more.


Find more information about Hwaet!zine via their website https://www.hwaetzine.co.uk/


Find more information about the show, including how to contact us via www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Or follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Hwaet! to our interview with the fabulous folklore creators behind Hwaet!zine. This week, we ask George Parr and Bunty May Marshall about the inspirations behind the issues of Hwaet!zine and their artistic process. Join us for Tolkien chat, tips for tours of the Orkney Isles and much more.


Find more information about Hwaet!zine via their website https://www.hwaetzine.co.uk/


Find more information about the show, including how to contact us via www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Or follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Ossary Werewolves Ossary Werewolves Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT 43:25 69b9bc817df9481e68399d55 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69b9bc817df9481e68399d55 69b9bc817df9481e68399d55 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 There have always been wolves in Ossuary full 5 6 The ancient Irish kingdom of Ossary is awash with werewolf stories. Here, your soul can transform into a wolf in your sleep and marauding war bands are wolves in disguise. If you roam the woods outside of Meath, you might find yourself in conversation with a wolf-man, too. Join us this week for two stories of beastly transformation and the nature of man.


Love the show? Then join us on Patreon and vote in the show poll to tell us which story you liked best. https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod


Or check out our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Or follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The ancient Irish kingdom of Ossary is awash with werewolf stories. Here, your soul can transform into a wolf in your sleep and marauding war bands are wolves in disguise. If you roam the woods outside of Meath, you might find yourself in conversation with a wolf-man, too. Join us this week for two stories of beastly transformation and the nature of man.


Love the show? Then join us on Patreon and vote in the show poll to tell us which story you liked best. https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod


Or check out our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Or follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Folklore Creators: The Three Ravens Interview Folklore Creators: The Three Ravens Interview Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT 48:35 69a6a99d5fd4bb611aaa2b22 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69a6a99d5fd4bb611aaa2b22 69a6a99d5fd4bb611aaa2b22 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Join us for a chat about writing inspirations, writing challenges and the joys of podcasting with Martin and Eleanor from Three Ravens Podcast. full 5 5 For the first episode in our series of interviews with successful folklore writers and creators, we were lucky enough to be able to sit down with Martin and Eleanor from the Three Ravens Podcast to talk to them about their creative influences, how they put the show together and what interests them most about folklore.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> For the first episode in our series of interviews with successful folklore writers and creators, we were lucky enough to be able to sit down with Martin and Eleanor from the Three Ravens Podcast to talk to them about their creative influences, how they put the show together and what interests them most about folklore.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Meg of Meldon Meg of Meldon Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 43:42 69963274435569254bf523f2 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69963274435569254bf523f2 69963274435569254bf523f2 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Witch or miser? Or merely the victim of malicious gossip full 5 4 In the far north west of Northumberland, there is a village where a wicked witch once lived: a wicked witch who hoarded her money and blighted her neighbours' crops and cursed the village. Or did she? Meg of Meldon is a tricky character to pin down. The stories about her are many, and the truths are scarce. Did she really hide all her gold in a bullhide bag at the bottom of the estate well? Or is it under the bridge where her ghost can often be seen? And what about her pact with the devil? The problem with Meg of Meldon is that she has been such a well-told local tale for so long that it is difficult to know where the truth ends and the tales begin. This week, Sam and Nikki try two different tales to unpick the riddle of Meg. Join us!


If you like the show, then come follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or support us via our Patreon page https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod


Or visit our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In the far north west of Northumberland, there is a village where a wicked witch once lived: a wicked witch who hoarded her money and blighted her neighbours' crops and cursed the village. Or did she? Meg of Meldon is a tricky character to pin down. The stories about her are many, and the truths are scarce. Did she really hide all her gold in a bullhide bag at the bottom of the estate well? Or is it under the bridge where her ghost can often be seen? And what about her pact with the devil? The problem with Meg of Meldon is that she has been such a well-told local tale for so long that it is difficult to know where the truth ends and the tales begin. This week, Sam and Nikki try two different tales to unpick the riddle of Meg. Join us!


If you like the show, then come follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or support us via our Patreon page https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod


Or visit our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Lady Isabel and the Elf Knight Lady Isabel and the Elf Knight Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 43:53 6983c14d37d752e9a3648217 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6983c14d37d752e9a3648217 6983c14d37d752e9a3648217 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Six pretty maids have I drowned here and thou the seventh shall be. full 5 3 This Valentine's Day, we say beware the elf knight! Rather than lean in to the romance, we're taking a look at how seemingly romantic encounters can end up being cautionary tales. Join us for two stories about dastardly rakes, fearless young women and murderous love. No parrots allowed.


If you like the show, then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or find us on our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Or join us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This Valentine's Day, we say beware the elf knight! Rather than lean in to the romance, we're taking a look at how seemingly romantic encounters can end up being cautionary tales. Join us for two stories about dastardly rakes, fearless young women and murderous love. No parrots allowed.


If you like the show, then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or find us on our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Or join us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Kit's Coty House]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT 47:57 697137678c404bc52344392f false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/697137678c404bc52344392f 697137678c404bc52344392f 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 full 5 2 This week, we travel to Kent, where Kits Coty House sits on Bluebell Hill in the beautiful Medway Valley. This ancient megalith is all that remains of a Neolithic tomb, which has a long and storied history. Some say that the house was built by witches, others say it was built by giants. Is it a respite for shepherds or a portal to the fairy world? Perhaps it is the tomb of the infamous Jutish warrior Horsa. Listen in this week for two stories which explore the many tales surrounding this iconic ancient site.


Follow the show on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Find us on TikTok @wyrdfolkpod


Visit us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Support us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we travel to Kent, where Kits Coty House sits on Bluebell Hill in the beautiful Medway Valley. This ancient megalith is all that remains of a Neolithic tomb, which has a long and storied history. Some say that the house was built by witches, others say it was built by giants. Is it a respite for shepherds or a portal to the fairy world? Perhaps it is the tomb of the infamous Jutish warrior Horsa. Listen in this week for two stories which explore the many tales surrounding this iconic ancient site.


Follow the show on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Find us on TikTok @wyrdfolkpod


Visit us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com


Support us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Jack the Giant Slayer Jack the Giant Slayer Thu, 08 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT 48:26 695edee724334d02345f7b6f false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/695edee724334d02345f7b6f 695edee724334d02345f7b6f 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Fee Fie Foe Fum! I smell the blood of an English legend. full 5 1 To kick off our new season, we've gone for a classic English tale of giants, plucky heroes and clever escapes. Jack is an everyman who travels the country slaying giants with his wits and saving cursed princesses with his magic treasures. Join us for two tales of unlikely heroes, tricky giants and adventure.


Make sure to follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod


And check out our website for show updates www.wyrdfolkpod.com

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> To kick off our new season, we've gone for a classic English tale of giants, plucky heroes and clever escapes. Jack is an everyman who travels the country slaying giants with his wits and saving cursed princesses with his magic treasures. Join us for two tales of unlikely heroes, tricky giants and adventure.


Make sure to follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod


Or support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPod


And check out our website for show updates www.wyrdfolkpod.com

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Holly and the Ivy The Holly and the Ivy Mon, 22 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT 34:29 6948525c921dd3db0b37807e false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6948525c921dd3db0b37807e 6948525c921dd3db0b37807e 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 This classic carol celebrates the best of the season marrying both pagan and Christian traditions. full 4 9 The Holly and the Ivy is the beautiful traditional carol which themes our 2025 Christmas special. Full of mid-winter imagery, the carol showcases the symbolism of English country Christmas customs and Christian imagery. Join us for two stories of midwinter greenery, the joy of music for the festive season and links to mid-winter festivals such as Yule and local folklore.


Check us out on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod for up-to-date show news.


Also, make sure to check out our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com to see more details from the show.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Holly and the Ivy is the beautiful traditional carol which themes our 2025 Christmas special. Full of mid-winter imagery, the carol showcases the symbolism of English country Christmas customs and Christian imagery. Join us for two stories of midwinter greenery, the joy of music for the festive season and links to mid-winter festivals such as Yule and local folklore.


Check us out on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod for up-to-date show news.


Also, make sure to check out our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com to see more details from the show.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Hedley Kow The Hedley Kow Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT 32:58 6939e1d834867e026d4ca5ca false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6939e1d834867e026d4ca5ca 6939e1d834867e026d4ca5ca 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 This puckish spirit likes to play tricks on unsupecting dairy maids. But is he about to meet his match? full 4 8 The Hedley Kow is a devilish sprite, keen to play tricks on the unwary and the trusting. A shapeshifter, the kow can often be found duping the unsuspecting with the illusion of gold, until it meets its match in a woman so happy with her lot in life that she doesn't mind her changing fortune. This charming fairytale from Northumberland is the perfect pantomime tonic for the festive season.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Hedley Kow is a devilish sprite, keen to play tricks on the unwary and the trusting. A shapeshifter, the kow can often be found duping the unsuspecting with the illusion of gold, until it meets its match in a woman so happy with her lot in life that she doesn't mind her changing fortune. This charming fairytale from Northumberland is the perfect pantomime tonic for the festive season.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Mither of the Sea Mither of the Sea Thu, 27 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT 30:20 69275f41064897cd5fe909ea false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69275f41064897cd5fe909ea 69275f41064897cd5fe909ea 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 When the storms come it is time for the eternal battle. full 4 7 On the Orkney Islands, they tell the story of the changing seasons through the eternal battle between the goddess Mither and her counterpart- the terrible storm god Teran. When the weather turns and the storms roll in, they battle in the deeps, bringing thunderous weather and much needed change. Join us for two tales of the force of the sea and the eternal pull of the tides.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> On the Orkney Islands, they tell the story of the changing seasons through the eternal battle between the goddess Mither and her counterpart- the terrible storm god Teran. When the weather turns and the storms roll in, they battle in the deeps, bringing thunderous weather and much needed change. Join us for two tales of the force of the sea and the eternal pull of the tides.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Spring-heeled Jack Spring-heeled Jack Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT 42:36 69138be3543edcb560b8e965 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/69138be3543edcb560b8e965 69138be3543edcb560b8e965 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 This fiend from urban legend lurks in the shadows to terrify his victims. But is he a mere man or the devil himself? full 4 6 On the lonely lanes of early Victorian London, a fiend lurks in the shadows to frighten young maidens. This hellish figure is reported to have metallic claws, horns, breathe fire and can leap ten-foot walls in a single bound. But who is he? Is he a fiend from the pit of hell, or is he just a bored nobleman with a grudge?


Remember to vote for your favourite story on our episode blog once you've listened to the show.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> On the lonely lanes of early Victorian London, a fiend lurks in the shadows to frighten young maidens. This hellish figure is reported to have metallic claws, horns, breathe fire and can leap ten-foot walls in a single bound. But who is he? Is he a fiend from the pit of hell, or is he just a bored nobleman with a grudge?


Remember to vote for your favourite story on our episode blog once you've listened to the show.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Halloween Special: The Ghosts of the Lygon Arms Halloween Special: The Ghosts of the Lygon Arms Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT 51:42 6901c53ad22e962243fd84ff false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6901c53ad22e962243fd84ff 6901c53ad22e962243fd84ff 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Even in the busiest hotel there is a cold presence in the dark full 4 5 For our one-year anniversary episode, we are delving into the ghostly happenings at a luxury country hotel in the Cotswolds. The beautiful Lygon Arms, with its oak-panelled dining room and cosy fires, is just the place to enjoy a winter ghost story. Restored by Sydney B Russell, the father of the great furniture designer Gordon Russell, the hotel is both modern and ancient; here, the staff whisper tales of ghostly knocking in the King Charles Room, a spectral child haunts the halls, and even the guests must beware of the touch of a cold hand in the darkness. This Halloween, join us for two tales of the ancient, haunted inn.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> For our one-year anniversary episode, we are delving into the ghostly happenings at a luxury country hotel in the Cotswolds. The beautiful Lygon Arms, with its oak-panelled dining room and cosy fires, is just the place to enjoy a winter ghost story. Restored by Sydney B Russell, the father of the great furniture designer Gordon Russell, the hotel is both modern and ancient; here, the staff whisper tales of ghostly knocking in the King Charles Room, a spectral child haunts the halls, and even the guests must beware of the touch of a cold hand in the darkness. This Halloween, join us for two tales of the ancient, haunted inn.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Spooky Short: The Cauld Lad Spooky Short: The Cauld Lad Sun, 19 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 8:13 68f3e298888566c5b00c8607 false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/cauldlad 68f3e298888566c5b00c8607 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 The poor cauld lad of Hylton Castle cannot find any rest or comfort. bonus 4 5.5 This spooky short was originally written for Season 2 Episode 2: The Cauld Lad of Hylton. Now a ruin, Hylton Castle is known in local legend for the brutal murder of a poor stable lad, whose restless ghost still wandered the halls of the castle after he was slaughtered by the lord of the manor. The Cauld Lad can find no peace or rest until someone warms his bones for him. Listen to the full episode for Sam's take on the story and the background to the legend.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This spooky short was originally written for Season 2 Episode 2: The Cauld Lad of Hylton. Now a ruin, Hylton Castle is known in local legend for the brutal murder of a poor stable lad, whose restless ghost still wandered the halls of the castle after he was slaughtered by the lord of the manor. The Cauld Lad can find no peace or rest until someone warms his bones for him. Listen to the full episode for Sam's take on the story and the background to the legend.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Mester Stoor Worm Mester Stoor Worm Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 51:41 68eea25351a2f461345707ba false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/68eea25351a2f461345707ba 68eea25351a2f461345707ba 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 The king of sea serpents meets his match in the cinder lad. full 4 3 On the Orkney Islands, they tell of a sea serpent so enormous that it could devour whole villages in a single bite and kill entire communities with one puff of its poison breath. Mester Stoor Worm is not just a monster; he is a god: Jörmungandr world snake. A beast so enormous that his broken teeth form the Faroe Islands. Who can defeat such a gargantuan beast but the seventh son of a seventh son? Listen in this week for two stories of gods, monsters, heroes and princesses.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> On the Orkney Islands, they tell of a sea serpent so enormous that it could devour whole villages in a single bite and kill entire communities with one puff of its poison breath. Mester Stoor Worm is not just a monster; he is a god: Jörmungandr world snake. A beast so enormous that his broken teeth form the Faroe Islands. Who can defeat such a gargantuan beast but the seventh son of a seventh son? Listen in this week for two stories of gods, monsters, heroes and princesses.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Spooky Shorts: A Hand in the Darkness Spooky Shorts: A Hand in the Darkness Sun, 12 Oct 2025 06:32:34 GMT 9:18 68e2972c035190b6f031d5e9 false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/hairy-hands-dartmoor 68e2972c035190b6f031d5e9 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Along this lonely stretch of Dartmoor road the hairy hands wait in the dark. full 4 4.5 This week's spooky short for Halloween is taken from our series two episode on The Hairy Hands of Dartmoor. A stretch of the B3212 road outside Postbridge on Dartmoor has a gruesome reputation, for it is where the hairy hands lurk, ready to attack unwary travellers. In the episode, both Sam and I imagined what it would be like to have an encounter with these ghoulish, murderous, hairy hands. A Hand in the Darkness is a truly terrifying tale, perfect for Halloween. If you like the story, then make sure you listen back to the full episode to listen to Nikki's tale as well.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week's spooky short for Halloween is taken from our series two episode on The Hairy Hands of Dartmoor. A stretch of the B3212 road outside Postbridge on Dartmoor has a gruesome reputation, for it is where the hairy hands lurk, ready to attack unwary travellers. In the episode, both Sam and I imagined what it would be like to have an encounter with these ghoulish, murderous, hairy hands. A Hand in the Darkness is a truly terrifying tale, perfect for Halloween. If you like the story, then make sure you listen back to the full episode to listen to Nikki's tale as well.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Spooky Shorts: The Unwilling Guest- a Leap Castle Story Spooky Shorts: The Unwilling Guest- a Leap Castle Story Sun, 05 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 10:30 68d956a4099369ce42c00ccd false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/12-the-leap-castle-elemental 68d956a4099369ce42c00ccd 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Disbelievers beware! The Leap Castle elemental stirs. bonus 4 3.5 Gather round the fireside for a story of terror from Leap Castle. The Unwilling Guest first appeared in the second episode of season 1 of the podcast. This tale is Nikki's take on the seances held at Leap by the lady of the castle, Mildred Darby, who first recorded encounters with what she called 'the elemental' in the gallery at Leap Castle. This episode is the first of our short story re-releases for Halloween.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Gather round the fireside for a story of terror from Leap Castle. The Unwilling Guest first appeared in the second episode of season 1 of the podcast. This tale is Nikki's take on the seances held at Leap by the lady of the castle, Mildred Darby, who first recorded encounters with what she called 'the elemental' in the gallery at Leap Castle. This episode is the first of our short story re-releases for Halloween.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Highgate Vampire The Highgate Vampire Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 46:36 68d95763acc34956e62cc40f false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/the-highgate-vampire 68d95763acc34956e62cc40f 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Vampire, ghoul or ghost? The creature which is said to stalk Highgate Cemetery inspired one of the greatest rivalries of the world of paranormal investigation full 4 3 Does a vampire walk in Highgate? This week, we take a look at the vampire story, which became the urban folk horror sensation of the early 70s. The setting: the crumbling Victorian splendour of Highgate Cemetery in London, where a seven-foot-tall ghoul with a burning gaze is said to stalk lonely passers-by. But what is this creature? Is it a vampire woken by the black magic rituals performed at night in the cemetery grounds, or is it a spirit trapped forever in the bounds of the graveyard? Listen in this week for our spooky stories of the Highgate Vampire.


Go to https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/the-highgate-vampire to vote for your favourite story once you've finished listening.


Love the show? We'd be grateful if you could leave a review.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Does a vampire walk in Highgate? This week, we take a look at the vampire story, which became the urban folk horror sensation of the early 70s. The setting: the crumbling Victorian splendour of Highgate Cemetery in London, where a seven-foot-tall ghoul with a burning gaze is said to stalk lonely passers-by. But what is this creature? Is it a vampire woken by the black magic rituals performed at night in the cemetery grounds, or is it a spirit trapped forever in the bounds of the graveyard? Listen in this week for our spooky stories of the Highgate Vampire.


Go to https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/the-highgate-vampire to vote for your favourite story once you've finished listening.


Love the show? We'd be grateful if you could leave a review.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Old Songs with Amy Jeffs, Gwen Burns and Natalie Brice Old Songs with Amy Jeffs, Gwen Burns and Natalie Brice Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 50:37 68c904cb666ba430d60fd994 false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/42-old-songs 68c904cb666ba430d60fd994 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 full 4 2 This week, we have the absolute privilege of sitting down for a chat with writer Amy Jeffs, illustrator Gwen Burns and musician Natalie Brice to talk about their absolutely stunning new book, 'Old Songs'. This collection of stories, songs and imagery from ten British ballads is a truly multi-media experience. From the romantic ballad of Tam Lin to the domestic scenes of Willie's Lady, the book brings these old ballads to life for modern audiences through Amy's wondrous prose, Gwen's moving illustrations and Natalie's haunting arrangements of the traditional songs, which you can hear on the audiobook.


We are lucky enough to have a sneak peek at some of the stories and the music as part of the episode.


If you want to see Amy, Gwen and Natalie on tour, then head to Amy's website for more details.


Pre-order the book here, using the independent bookshop finder. https://geni.us/OldSongs?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafiTKM1pkaUj311yZAxYXQNECbBO2OJNu5Om3FBek8xIV3Gj3jLEpMOW-WIYQ_aem_jdd2wvVhF7RF8pHci_Itog

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we have the absolute privilege of sitting down for a chat with writer Amy Jeffs, illustrator Gwen Burns and musician Natalie Brice to talk about their absolutely stunning new book, 'Old Songs'. This collection of stories, songs and imagery from ten British ballads is a truly multi-media experience. From the romantic ballad of Tam Lin to the domestic scenes of Willie's Lady, the book brings these old ballads to life for modern audiences through Amy's wondrous prose, Gwen's moving illustrations and Natalie's haunting arrangements of the traditional songs, which you can hear on the audiobook.


We are lucky enough to have a sneak peek at some of the stories and the music as part of the episode.


If you want to see Amy, Gwen and Natalie on tour, then head to Amy's website for more details.


Pre-order the book here, using the independent bookshop finder. https://geni.us/OldSongs?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafiTKM1pkaUj311yZAxYXQNECbBO2OJNu5Om3FBek8xIV3Gj3jLEpMOW-WIYQ_aem_jdd2wvVhF7RF8pHci_Itog

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Borley Rectory Borley Rectory Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 59:26 67f37c3409334872129c6d5e false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/41-borley-rectory 67f37c3409334872129c6d5e 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 full 4 1 The infamous haunting at Borley Rectory in Essex has fascinated ghost hunters and horror aficionados alike for over a century. But Borley isn't just a ghost story. It is the tale of betrayal, family and deception which turned a seemingly ordinary rectory building deep in the countryside into the site of intense psychic study. What is the truth of Borley? This week, Sam and I take a look at two different eras in the Borley timeline and ask ourselves how the simple stories told by the Bull children to pass the long Winter nights ended in a raging fire which destroyed their father's house. After you've listened to the episode, make sure to vote for your favourite story on the episode poll by following this link: https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/41-borley-rectory


Make sure to follow us on Instagram for show updates on @wyrd.folkpod or help support the show via Ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/wyrdsistersproductions

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The infamous haunting at Borley Rectory in Essex has fascinated ghost hunters and horror aficionados alike for over a century. But Borley isn't just a ghost story. It is the tale of betrayal, family and deception which turned a seemingly ordinary rectory building deep in the countryside into the site of intense psychic study. What is the truth of Borley? This week, Sam and I take a look at two different eras in the Borley timeline and ask ourselves how the simple stories told by the Bull children to pass the long Winter nights ended in a raging fire which destroyed their father's house. After you've listened to the episode, make sure to vote for your favourite story on the episode poll by following this link: https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/41-borley-rectory


Make sure to follow us on Instagram for show updates on @wyrd.folkpod or help support the show via Ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/wyrdsistersproductions

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Beaumont Tree The Beaumont Tree Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 39:39 689ef0f68f8e6e8461d415ab false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1 689ef0f68f8e6e8461d415ab 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 This elm was said to hold curative properties lent by the stakes heart of a notorious highwayman. full 3 9 This week, we take a trip to Bedfordshire to visit the site of the Beaumont Tree. This legendary elm supposedly grew from the staked heart of a notorious highwayman. Locals believed that the bark was a cure for the ague and malaria. But the question we want to ask is why the highwayman was staked in the first place. What drove his killer to commit such a violent act against his body?


When you've listened to the episode, make sure to vote for your favourite version of the story on our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com to make sure that one of us gets crowned queen of the pod for Season 3.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we take a trip to Bedfordshire to visit the site of the Beaumont Tree. This legendary elm supposedly grew from the staked heart of a notorious highwayman. Locals believed that the bark was a cure for the ague and malaria. But the question we want to ask is why the highwayman was staked in the first place. What drove his killer to commit such a violent act against his body?


When you've listened to the episode, make sure to vote for your favourite version of the story on our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com to make sure that one of us gets crowned queen of the pod for Season 3.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Dun Cow with Willerby The Dun Cow with Willerby Thu, 07 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 23:15 6890b14aeb4229c9193b9db5 false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/27-the-dun-cow-with-willerby 6890b14aeb4229c9193b9db5 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Let us introduce you to a fascinating village in the Midlands and their ancient battle with this beastly bovine terror. full 3 7 This week, we want to introduce you to our favourite village in the Midlands: Willerby. This charming little village has more going on than meets the eye. There's something in the village pond, the parish council have more to contend with than parking problems, and then there are the regular visits from THE COW! Listen as parish councillor Dan tells us all about the curse of The Dun Cow!


If you want to find Willerby, then you can head to their website https://www.welcometowillerby.co.uk/ or their Substack https://willerby.substack.com/ or find them on Bluesky @welcometowillerby.bsky.social ‬or on Instagram @willerbyvillage


As always, you can reach us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com or via Instagram @wyrd.folkpod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we want to introduce you to our favourite village in the Midlands: Willerby. This charming little village has more going on than meets the eye. There's something in the village pond, the parish council have more to contend with than parking problems, and then there are the regular visits from THE COW! Listen as parish councillor Dan tells us all about the curse of The Dun Cow!


If you want to find Willerby, then you can head to their website https://www.welcometowillerby.co.uk/ or their Substack https://willerby.substack.com/ or find them on Bluesky @welcometowillerby.bsky.social ‬or on Instagram @willerbyvillage


As always, you can reach us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com or via Instagram @wyrd.folkpod

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Ballad of Tam Lin The Ballad of Tam Lin Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 52:40 6880cc792a38d6f5cbe64a9e false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/36-tam-lin 6880cc792a38d6f5cbe64a9e 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A brave girls seeks to free her lover from the clutches of the Faery Queen full 3 6 Often called the first Scottish folktale, the romantic story of the handsome Tam Lin and his lover Janet has captivated audiences for centuries. The original broadside ballads might disagree about some of the details, but the essentials remain the same, including Janet's heroic role in the tale. Join us this week as we look at things from both Tam and Janet's viewpoints and discuss the perennial perils of fairyland.


Make sure to follow us on @wyrd.folkpod on Instagram from more show updates or support us via Ko-fi if you love the show. https://ko-fi.com/wyrdsistersproductions

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Often called the first Scottish folktale, the romantic story of the handsome Tam Lin and his lover Janet has captivated audiences for centuries. The original broadside ballads might disagree about some of the details, but the essentials remain the same, including Janet's heroic role in the tale. Join us this week as we look at things from both Tam and Janet's viewpoints and discuss the perennial perils of fairyland.


Make sure to follow us on @wyrd.folkpod on Instagram from more show updates or support us via Ko-fi if you love the show. https://ko-fi.com/wyrdsistersproductions

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In Search of Camelot In Search of Camelot Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 28:49 67f37c0ea12da3438b8c667d false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67f37c0ea12da3438b8c667d 67f37c0ea12da3438b8c667d 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Is Camelot just a dream or is it real? full 3 5 On this week's non-fiction episode, we pay tribute to our wonderful father, who passed away last week, by looking at the ideal of Camelot. If Camelot were real, then where is it? Which places in Britain have the best claim to be the site of Camelot? We talk through the top four contenders and examine the inspiration the concept of Camelot has provided to writers since the early medieval period.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> On this week's non-fiction episode, we pay tribute to our wonderful father, who passed away last week, by looking at the ideal of Camelot. If Camelot were real, then where is it? Which places in Britain have the best claim to be the site of Camelot? We talk through the top four contenders and examine the inspiration the concept of Camelot has provided to writers since the early medieval period.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[The Devil's Nutting Day]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 40:07 67f37b9909334872129c0059 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67f37b9909334872129c0059 67f37b9909334872129c0059 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Do be careful while gathering nuts. The devil might be waiting for you. full 3 4 The devil waits to tempt us all on the 21st September, otherwise known as The Devil's Nutting Day. Folk legend has it that Old Nick lies in wait to tempt innocent maidens in the hazel brakes. So do remember to be alert when gathering your hazelnuts in September. This week, we have two stories about the devil and his craving for nuts. It seems only the holy mother can stop him making free with nature's bounty in September.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The devil waits to tempt us all on the 21st September, otherwise known as The Devil's Nutting Day. Folk legend has it that Old Nick lies in wait to tempt innocent maidens in the hazel brakes. So do remember to be alert when gathering your hazelnuts in September. This week, we have two stories about the devil and his craving for nuts. It seems only the holy mother can stop him making free with nature's bounty in September.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> May Festivals May Festivals Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 32:07 67f37bd809334872129c16da false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67f37bd809334872129c16da 67f37bd809334872129c16da 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 May is here and so are all the weirdest festivals in England full 3 3 This week, we take a little look at the traditional festivals of May. Both Sam and I have chosen a local festival as our inspiration to write a little short about the comforting strangeness of English village May festivals. Grab your Morris bells and your maypole. It's dancing time.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we take a little look at the traditional festivals of May. Both Sam and I have chosen a local festival as our inspiration to write a little short about the comforting strangeness of English village May festivals. Grab your Morris bells and your maypole. It's dancing time.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Taliesin and Ceridwen with Lucy Holland Taliesin and Ceridwen with Lucy Holland Thu, 01 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT 36:43 67f37b6b09334872129bee58 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67f37b6b09334872129bee58 67f37b6b09334872129bee58 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Lucy Holland talks us through her folklore inspiration full 3 2 This week, we are doing our first-ever author interview. Lucy Holland will be sharing with us how she takes inspiration from Welsh and British folklore, particularly the enchanting myth of Taliesin and Ceridwen. In this episode, we talk folklore, writing and Gildas. A must for fans of Sister Song and Song of the Huntress.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we are doing our first-ever author interview. Lucy Holland will be sharing with us how she takes inspiration from Welsh and British folklore, particularly the enchanting myth of Taliesin and Ceridwen. In this episode, we talk folklore, writing and Gildas. A must for fans of Sister Song and Song of the Huntress.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Wizards of Alderly Edge The Wizards of Alderly Edge Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT 46:10 67f37b42fca673ae138fdc3c false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67f37b42fca673ae138fdc3c 67f37b42fca673ae138fdc3c 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Alderley Edge is steeped in tales of Wizards but who are they and what do they want? full 3 1 Whether you are an Alan Garner nerd or not, come along with us as we tell two tales of The Wizards of Alderley Edge, the Cheshire folktale which inspired the children's classic The Weirdstone of Brisingamen. We'll be looking at two different perspectives on the story of the farmer who meets a mysterious old man, possibly a wizard, and how practical it might be to rely on enchanted knights for national defence.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Whether you are an Alan Garner nerd or not, come along with us as we tell two tales of The Wizards of Alderley Edge, the Cheshire folktale which inspired the children's classic The Weirdstone of Brisingamen. We'll be looking at two different perspectives on the story of the farmer who meets a mysterious old man, possibly a wizard, and how practical it might be to rely on enchanted knights for national defence.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Season 2 Results Show Season 2 Results Show Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT 18:39 67bca23686a56284d03980cb false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67bca23686a56284d03980cb 67bca23686a56284d03980cb 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Who will be crowned the bard queen of Wyrd Folk? full 2 12 We've duelled our way through romances, comedies, dark tragedies and ghost stories. Now it is time to discover which of us has the most votes for each episode, with the storyteller with the most wins overall taking the title as Queen of the Wyrd. The stakes are high, and the sibling rivalry has never been more fierce!

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> We've duelled our way through romances, comedies, dark tragedies and ghost stories. Now it is time to discover which of us has the most votes for each episode, with the storyteller with the most wins overall taking the title as Queen of the Wyrd. The stakes are high, and the sibling rivalry has never been more fierce!

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Devil and the Blacksmith The Devil and the Blacksmith Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT 50:09 67bca164b628e470d30354d5 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67bca164b628e470d30354d5 67bca164b628e470d30354d5 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Is it ever worth selling your soul to be the best? full 2 10 Join us and special guest Mark Norman of The Folklore podcast as we discuss the ancient story of The Devil and The Blacksmith. This universal tale can be seen in many cultures all over the world, but we've stuck with two fascinating tales from Britain. How does St. Dunstan, the patron saint of smiths, beat the devil? And what happens if you leave your horse and payment at Wayland's Smithy? Listen in for two stories and some great insights on the tales from Mark.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Join us and special guest Mark Norman of The Folklore podcast as we discuss the ancient story of The Devil and The Blacksmith. This universal tale can be seen in many cultures all over the world, but we've stuck with two fascinating tales from Britain. How does St. Dunstan, the patron saint of smiths, beat the devil? And what happens if you leave your horse and payment at Wayland's Smithy? Listen in for two stories and some great insights on the tales from Mark.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Mystery of the London Stone The Mystery of the London Stone Thu, 06 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT 12:33 67bca006b628e470d302d110 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67bca006b628e470d302d110 67bca006b628e470d302d110 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A Roman milestone, a druidic altar or the mystical heart of London. What is the London Stone? full 2 9 In this minisode Nikki takes a look at the mysterious London Stone. This irregular block of oolitic limestone has stood on Cannon Street in London since before city records began and can be argued to be the first tourist attraction in the city. The theories about its origins are almost as old as the city itself. But what is the London Stone? Listen in to discover all the facts and fables about this tantalising, legendary object.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this minisode Nikki takes a look at the mysterious London Stone. This irregular block of oolitic limestone has stood on Cannon Street in London since before city records began and can be argued to be the first tourist attraction in the city. The theories about its origins are almost as old as the city itself. But what is the London Stone? Listen in to discover all the facts and fables about this tantalising, legendary object.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Mackenzie Poltergeist The Mackenzie Poltergeist Thu, 27 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT 38:07 67b60e46d7f65bb0450ca74c false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67b60e46d7f65bb0450ca74c 67b60e46d7f65bb0450ca74c 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Dare you enter the most haunted tomb in Scotland? full 2 8 The tomb of Sir George Mackenzie in Greyfriar's Kirkyard in Edinburgh is one of the most haunted sites in Scotland. Since the tomb was disturbed in the late Nineties, there have been hundreds of reports of people experiencing scratches and other physical effects after entering the mausoleum. This week, we have both taken different ideas about Bludy MacKenzie and his tomb to create two very different stories of physical haunting.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The tomb of Sir George Mackenzie in Greyfriar's Kirkyard in Edinburgh is one of the most haunted sites in Scotland. Since the tomb was disturbed in the late Nineties, there have been hundreds of reports of people experiencing scratches and other physical effects after entering the mausoleum. This week, we have both taken different ideas about Bludy MacKenzie and his tomb to create two very different stories of physical haunting.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Cerne Abbas Giant The Cerne Abbas Giant Thu, 20 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT 37:59 67b4fd34d24f7fcce828fb1a false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67b4fd34d24f7fcce828fb1a 67b4fd34d24f7fcce828fb1a 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 The proud chalk figure is as enigmatic as it is provoking but where did it come from? full 2 7 On the hillside overlooking the peaceful village of Cerne Abbas is one of the most iconic images of the English countryside, that of the Cerne Abbas Giant. Famous for his enormous member and his mysterious origins, the giant certainly has many stories attached to him. This week, we look at two of the most famous explanations as to how the giant came to reside on that sleepy hillside. We'll also be looking at how the giant became associated with Oliver Cromwell and a dissolute abbot. Join us for two comedic tales of skullduggery, defiance and English protest.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> On the hillside overlooking the peaceful village of Cerne Abbas is one of the most iconic images of the English countryside, that of the Cerne Abbas Giant. Famous for his enormous member and his mysterious origins, the giant certainly has many stories attached to him. This week, we look at two of the most famous explanations as to how the giant came to reside on that sleepy hillside. We'll also be looking at how the giant became associated with Oliver Cromwell and a dissolute abbot. Join us for two comedic tales of skullduggery, defiance and English protest.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Jennet Device and the Pendle Witches Jennet Device and the Pendle Witches Thu, 13 Feb 2025 21:56:42 GMT 16:06 678fdafb5dd9c67f177315d1 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/678fdafb5dd9c67f177315d1 678fdafb5dd9c67f177315d1 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 How does a nine year old girl find herself the star witness in the most infamous witch trials in British history? full 2 6 In this minisode, we do a quick sweep through the sad tale of Jennet Device, the nine-year-old beggar girl whose testimony condemned her mother, sister, brother and neighbours to death for withcraft. A victim of the cruel times in which she lived and the ambitions of the pious Roger Newell, we look at how Jennet comes to find herself on the stand at Lancaster assizes as the star witness in the most infamous witch trials in English history.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this minisode, we do a quick sweep through the sad tale of Jennet Device, the nine-year-old beggar girl whose testimony condemned her mother, sister, brother and neighbours to death for withcraft. A victim of the cruel times in which she lived and the ambitions of the pious Roger Newell, we look at how Jennet comes to find herself on the stand at Lancaster assizes as the star witness in the most infamous witch trials in English history.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Hairy Hands of Dartmoor The Hairy Hands of Dartmoor Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT 33:39 678fdb1fd186489b14879a4a false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/678fdb1fd186489b14879a4a 678fdb1fd186489b14879a4a 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 This road in Dartmoor is haunted by a pair of murderous hairy hands. full 2 5 The B3212 outside Postbridge in Dartmoor has a chilling reputation. It is the scene of numerous car crashes that have been attributed to a pair of ghostly hairy hands. Come with us this week as we tell two tales of encounters with the so-called Hairy Hands of Dartmoor.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The B3212 outside Postbridge in Dartmoor has a chilling reputation. It is the scene of numerous car crashes that have been attributed to a pair of ghostly hairy hands. Come with us this week as we tell two tales of encounters with the so-called Hairy Hands of Dartmoor.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Mermaid of Blakemere The Mermaid of Blakemere Thu, 30 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT 32:31 67854b3cab54a26ea783d270 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67854b3cab54a26ea783d270 67854b3cab54a26ea783d270 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 What hides in the depths of this dark pool? full 2 4 Blakemere in the Peak District is a place of dark fables and terrible tragedies. The site of a famous local murder is also said to harbour a vengeful mermaid in its dark waters. But how did a mermaid find herself in a small, freshwater lake miles from the open sea? Listen to hear our stories of love, witchcraft and betrayal.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Blakemere in the Peak District is a place of dark fables and terrible tragedies. The site of a famous local murder is also said to harbour a vengeful mermaid in its dark waters. But how did a mermaid find herself in a small, freshwater lake miles from the open sea? Listen to hear our stories of love, witchcraft and betrayal.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm Thu, 23 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT 10:55 67756a09c82b0a6413ca3e99 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/67756a09c82b0a6413ca3e99 67756a09c82b0a6413ca3e99 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A grisley discovery in Hagley is the gensis of an urban legend. full 2 3 For the first season 2 short, Sam takes a look at the details behind the famous urban legend of 'Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm?'. Who is LaBella? And how did she die? This week's episode is a bit more true crime than folklore, perhaps demonstrating the link between notorious local crimes and folklore. Possibly not for the faint of heart.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> For the first season 2 short, Sam takes a look at the details behind the famous urban legend of 'Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm?'. Who is LaBella? And how did she die? This week's episode is a bit more true crime than folklore, perhaps demonstrating the link between notorious local crimes and folklore. Possibly not for the faint of heart.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Cauld Lad of Hylton The Cauld Lad of Hylton Thu, 16 Jan 2025 06:30:00 GMT 32:20 677521bb499663105ef39fb6 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/677521bb499663105ef39fb6 677521bb499663105ef39fb6 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Is this spiteful creature the spirit of a murdered boy or merely a mischiveous brownie? full 2 2 This week, we dive into a ghostly tale from Sunderland, the Cauld Lad of Hilton Castle. Is this Cauld Lad the innocent victim of a terrible murder, or is it a spiteful brownie who loves to wreak havoc in the kitchens? Join us for two tales of things that go bump in the night. This week, we're asking you whether this Cauld Lad is a brownie or a poltergeist.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we dive into a ghostly tale from Sunderland, the Cauld Lad of Hilton Castle. Is this Cauld Lad the innocent victim of a terrible murder, or is it a spiteful brownie who loves to wreak havoc in the kitchens? Join us for two tales of things that go bump in the night. This week, we're asking you whether this Cauld Lad is a brownie or a poltergeist.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Sabrina of the Severn Sabrina of the Severn Thu, 09 Jan 2025 06:30:25 GMT 30:13 677520d0c82b0a6413bcf5d6 false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/21-sabrina-of-the-severn 677520d0c82b0a6413bcf5d6 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 full 2 1 Princess, goddess, saviour. Who is Sabrina? And why does she lend her name to Britain's longest river? Join us this week for a look at the tragic, romantic story of Sabrina, sometimes known as Hafren. And find out how she is connected to the story of Cormoran the Giant. To kick off season two, we are having a romance vs revenge rematch. Do you favour the lonely water nymph or the vengeful queen?

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Princess, goddess, saviour. Who is Sabrina? And why does she lend her name to Britain's longest river? Join us this week for a look at the tragic, romantic story of Sabrina, sometimes known as Hafren. And find out how she is connected to the story of Cormoran the Giant. To kick off season two, we are having a romance vs revenge rematch. Do you favour the lonely water nymph or the vengeful queen?

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A Carol for Yuletide A Carol for Yuletide Thu, 19 Dec 2024 07:00:39 GMT 34:36 67584ebe102e6d4448ce5cad false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/18-a-carol-for-christmas 67584ebe102e6d4448ce5cad 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Ring in the season with us as we tell two stories inspired by our favourite Christmas Carols full 1 8 One of the best things about Christmas, after the presents and the roast potatoes, is the carols. These deeply traditional little songs are often tales in themselves, with deeply resonant imagery which rings with both the joy of the season and messages of the cycle of the year. For the final episode of this series, each of us has chosen a traditional carol to render into story form. But who will wear the holly crown? Listen in and then cast your vote for the final winner of this season.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> One of the best things about Christmas, after the presents and the roast potatoes, is the carols. These deeply traditional little songs are often tales in themselves, with deeply resonant imagery which rings with both the joy of the season and messages of the cycle of the year. For the final episode of this series, each of us has chosen a traditional carol to render into story form. But who will wear the holly crown? Listen in and then cast your vote for the final winner of this season.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

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]]> Harry ca Nab and the Halesowen Wild Hunt Harry ca Nab and the Halesowen Wild Hunt Thu, 12 Dec 2024 07:00:59 GMT 34:22 6750c2e5a0332c2e11e06e2a false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6750c2e5a0332c2e11e06e2a 6750c2e5a0332c2e11e06e2a 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Beware the huntsman of the Clent Hills full 1 7 It is said that on wild nights in the Clent Hills a diabolical huntsman rides with his pack of bloodthirsty hounds. His steed is a great black bull, his eyes burn with the fires of hell and just the sight of him heralds terrible death and destruction. Come with us this week for two ghostly tales that explore the legends of Harry ca Nab, the wild huntsman of the Clent Hills just outside Halesowen. Is he a simple sinner, damned for his irreligious acts or is he a servant of the devil himself, come to steal the souls of the innocent? Listen now to find out.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> It is said that on wild nights in the Clent Hills a diabolical huntsman rides with his pack of bloodthirsty hounds. His steed is a great black bull, his eyes burn with the fires of hell and just the sight of him heralds terrible death and destruction. Come with us this week for two ghostly tales that explore the legends of Harry ca Nab, the wild huntsman of the Clent Hills just outside Halesowen. Is he a simple sinner, damned for his irreligious acts or is he a servant of the devil himself, come to steal the souls of the innocent? Listen now to find out.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Dragons of Dinas Emrys The Dragons of Dinas Emrys Thu, 05 Dec 2024 07:10:47 GMT 41:33 6750c1f0aeaa2d78dfa535ad false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6750c1f0aeaa2d78dfa535ad 6750c1f0aeaa2d78dfa535ad 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A king, a castle and a magical mystery. full 1 6 This week, we begin to dip our toes into the deep waters that are Arthurian myths (or, in this case, myths that are King Arthur's adjacent). This week we are telling two stories based on the 9th-century tales of the monk Nennius and his quasi-historical writings about the dreadful tyrant Vortigern and his inability to get a castle to remain standing overnight. Cue entry for the man of the millennium- Merlin. Or is he? Is this really an Arthurian legend at all, or is this something older, based on the original Welsh myths of the Mabinogion? Is it Emrys or Ambrosius who reveals the secrets of the dragons to the king? Listen now to find out.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week, we begin to dip our toes into the deep waters that are Arthurian myths (or, in this case, myths that are King Arthur's adjacent). This week we are telling two stories based on the 9th-century tales of the monk Nennius and his quasi-historical writings about the dreadful tyrant Vortigern and his inability to get a castle to remain standing overnight. Cue entry for the man of the millennium- Merlin. Or is he? Is this really an Arthurian legend at all, or is this something older, based on the original Welsh myths of the Mabinogion? Is it Emrys or Ambrosius who reveals the secrets of the dragons to the king? Listen now to find out.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Wyrd Short: The Vampire of Croglin Grange Wyrd Short: The Vampire of Croglin Grange Thu, 28 Nov 2024 07:07:52 GMT 18:18 6742d82f8beb3051039cd43b false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6742d82f8beb3051039cd43b 6742d82f8beb3051039cd43b 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 full 1 5 This week's episode is a special short non-fiction exploring the background of the legend of The Vampire of Croglin Grange. The story is a Cumbrian classic packed full of all the usual gothic tropes: ancient graveyards, helpless maidens ravished in their beds and a bloodthirsty ghoul. But is this really a folktale? This week, we'll be asking ourselves what makes a folktale and examining whether the vampire stories around Croglin Grange are more than just Varney the Vampire fan fiction.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week's episode is a special short non-fiction exploring the background of the legend of The Vampire of Croglin Grange. The story is a Cumbrian classic packed full of all the usual gothic tropes: ancient graveyards, helpless maidens ravished in their beds and a bloodthirsty ghoul. But is this really a folktale? This week, we'll be asking ourselves what makes a folktale and examining whether the vampire stories around Croglin Grange are more than just Varney the Vampire fan fiction.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Lambton Worm The Lambton Worm Thu, 21 Nov 2024 07:00:29 GMT 35:53 6737091084d1e023f7ea050f false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/6737091084d1e023f7ea050f 6737091084d1e023f7ea050f 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A tale of how skipping godly duties leads to a family curse full 1 4 A tale of how a boy's decision to skip church to go fishing on a Sunday has monstrous consequences for his family for generations. Listen in for two stories about family, faith and the ties that binds us all.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A tale of how a boy's decision to skip church to go fishing on a Sunday has monstrous consequences for his family for generations. Listen in for two stories about family, faith and the ties that binds us all.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Cormoran the Giant Cormoran the Giant Thu, 14 Nov 2024 06:00:27 GMT 34:15 672a54368e194291077c2423 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/672a54368e194291077c2423 672a54368e194291077c2423 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 What price a home in the restless bay? full 1 3 St. Michael's Mount is one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Cornwall. Part family home, part defensive fortress, it dominates the coastline east of Penzance. But where did the mount come from? Local legend tells of the giant Cormoran and his wife Cormelian and their dream of a home away from the rule of the Trojan invaders. This week we're going to look at that story two ways: the tale of how Cormoran's anger at his wife, and his own laziness left Chapel Rock halfway between the mount and the shore and a look at how the giants were pushed to the edges of the country by the Trojan conquest. Make sure to read the show notes on our website: www.wyrdfolkpod.com after listening to get more details on our sources. And vote on our poll on Instagram to decide this week's winner.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> St. Michael's Mount is one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Cornwall. Part family home, part defensive fortress, it dominates the coastline east of Penzance. But where did the mount come from? Local legend tells of the giant Cormoran and his wife Cormelian and their dream of a home away from the rule of the Trojan invaders. This week we're going to look at that story two ways: the tale of how Cormoran's anger at his wife, and his own laziness left Chapel Rock halfway between the mount and the shore and a look at how the giants were pushed to the edges of the country by the Trojan conquest. Make sure to read the show notes on our website: www.wyrdfolkpod.com after listening to get more details on our sources. And vote on our poll on Instagram to decide this week's winner.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Leap Castle Elemental The Leap Castle Elemental Thu, 07 Nov 2024 06:00:29 GMT 37:38 672a33c58e19429107723f10 false https://shows.acast.com/wyrdfolkpod/episodes/672a33c58e19429107723f10 672a33c58e19429107723f10 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 Are you a believer or a sceptic? full 1 2 Leap Castle is rumoured to be one of the most haunted sites in all of Ireland. It certainly does have a long and bloody history. From the carts full of bones found in the excavation of the castle's oubliette to the red lady who wanders the halls searching for her murdered child, Leap Castle is full of bone-chilling tales to fill a long winter's night. For this episode, we've decided to look at the most horrifying of all Leap's spectres- the Elemental. Get ready for two ghost stories that will leave you shivering long into the night.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Leap Castle is rumoured to be one of the most haunted sites in all of Ireland. It certainly does have a long and bloody history. From the carts full of bones found in the excavation of the castle's oubliette to the red lady who wanders the halls searching for her murdered child, Leap Castle is full of bone-chilling tales to fill a long winter's night. For this episode, we've decided to look at the most horrifying of all Leap's spectres- the Elemental. Get ready for two ghost stories that will leave you shivering long into the night.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Legends of The Rollright Stones The Legends of The Rollright Stones Mon, 28 Oct 2024 17:00:33 GMT 31:12 671f42118cbca9ac1f9b92e8 false https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1/blog-post-title-one-exnwk 671f42118cbca9ac1f9b92e8 6705a49ded8ff5205e0064c0 A king and a witch meet on a hilltop. What happens next will change them both forever. full 1 1 Our first folklore retelling focuses on the legends that surround The Rollright Stones in North Oxfordshire. In simple terms, a king with an army at his back and a witch meeting on the top of a hill. For some reason, the witch takes offence to the king and his army and turns them all to stone, creating some very striking local landmarks. But the story we have doesn't explain why she does it. We've had a go at thinking about the reasons this witch could have chosen such a terrible punishment for these men. Are you Team Retribution or Team Romance? Vote on Instagram when you've listened to the episode.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Our first folklore retelling focuses on the legends that surround The Rollright Stones in North Oxfordshire. In simple terms, a king with an army at his back and a witch meeting on the top of a hill. For some reason, the witch takes offence to the king and his army and turns them all to stone, creating some very striking local landmarks. But the story we have doesn't explain why she does it. We've had a go at thinking about the reasons this witch could have chosen such a terrible punishment for these men. Are you Team Retribution or Team Romance? Vote on Instagram when you've listened to the episode.

Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1


Remember to keep writing wyrd!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>