10 Folklore Legends of the North Yorkshire Moors

10 Folklore Legends of the North Yorkshire Moors

For those who don't know, the North Yorkshire Moors are a vast, rugged landscape in the North East of England spanning 544 square miles. This surreal and stunning landscape takes your breath away and it's easy to see how folklore and legend have ebbed their way into its history. These tales have been passed down through generations, adding mystery and intrigue to this soul-stirring region. Let’s dive into some of the best (and creepiest) stories that make the Moors even more fascinating.

1.The Hound of the Baskervilles

While the infamous Hound of the Baskervilles is often associated with Dartmoor in Devon, there's a local Yorkshire legend that might have inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The story is about a ghostly black dog, known as the Barguest, who roams the Moors at night. This red-eyed creature is said to be an omen of death, appearing before disasters or the passing of an individual. Its glowing eyes and a haunting howl make the Barguest a staple of local ghost stories.

2.The Legend of Wade's Causeway

Wade's Causeway, also known as the Roman Road, carries its own myth. According to legend, the giant Wade built this road for his wife, Bell, to carry her milk pail across the Moors. Wade and Bell are prominent figures in Yorkshire folklore, often depicted as benevolent giants. The causeway itself is a remarkable stretch of ancient roadwork, and while its true origins are debated, the tale of Wade and Bell adds an exciting layer of mythology.

3.The Phantom Coach

One of the more eerie legends of the Yorkshire Moors is the tale of the Phantom Coach. On stormy nights, locals claim to see a spectral coach, drawn by headless horses and driven by a ghostly coachman, thundering across the Moors. This chilling apparition is said to be cursed, doomed to roam the Moors forever. Witnessing the Phantom Coach is considered a harbinger of misfortune, adding to its sinister reputation.

4.The Witch of Danby

The village of Danby has its own tale of witchcraft. Many years ago, a woman named Old Nan was believed to possess magical powers. According to the stories, she could control the weather, heal the sick, and even cast curses. Fearful of her powers, the villagers eventually turned against her, leading to a dramatic and tragic end. Today, Old Nan’s story serves as a reminder of the superstition and fear that once gripped rural communities.

5.The Lost Village of Whorlton

Whorlton, a now-deserted village on the edge of the Moors, has its share of legends. According to local lore, the village was cursed after its inhabitants wronged a mysterious stranger. The stranger, revealing himself to be a powerful sorcerer, condemned the village to ruin. Today, only the ruins of Whorlton Castle and the church remain, standing as silent witnesses to the tale of the cursed village.

6.Peg Powler and the River Tees

Although Peg Powler is more commonly associated with the River Tees, her legend spills over into the Moors as well. Peg Powler is a water spirit, said to inhabit the river and its tributaries. Described as a hideous hag with green hair and sharp teeth, Peg Powler preys on children who venture too close to the water’s edge. Her story is often told to warn youngsters of the dangers of playing near the rivers and streams that crisscross the Moors.

7.The Mysterious Stones

Scattered across the Yorkshire Moors are numerous standing stones and ancient rock formations, each with its own legend. One of the most famous is the Bride Stones, a collection of peculiar rock formations near Todmorden. According to legend, these stones were once a bridal party turned to stone by a vengeful witch. Today, they stand as eerie sentinels, inspiring both awe and unease among those who visit.

8.The Hob of Hob Hole

Hob Hole, a cave near the village of Goathland, is home to a mischievous sprite known as a Hob. These creatures, similar to hobgoblins, are believed to be helpful but easily offended. The Hob of Hob Hole is said to have once assisted local farmers with their chores, but would wreak havoc if not properly thanked. Tales of the Hob’s pranks and aid have been told for generations, highlighting the whimsical and sometimes capricious nature of these mythical beings.

9.The Hermit of Roseberry Topping

Roseberry Topping, a distinctive hill on the edge of the Moors, has its own ghostly tale. Legend has it that a hermit once lived on the hill, seeking solitude and enlightenment. After his death, his spirit is said to have remained, watching over the land. On misty mornings, some claim to see the silhouette of the hermit, a solitary figure standing atop the hill.

10.The Gytrash

Another spectral creature of the Yorkshire Moors is the Gytrash, a ghostly black dog that haunts lonely roads and paths. Similar to the Barguest, the Gytrash is often seen as a guardian or a harbinger of doom. Unlike the Barguest, however, the Gytrash can also appear as a horse or a mule, guiding lost travellers to safety—or leading them astray.

Conclusion

The Yorkshire Moors are a fabric of natural beauty and captivating folklore. These stories passed down through the ages, add an extra layer of mystery to an already magical landscape. Whether you’re exploring the heather-clad hills, wandering through ancient ruins, or simply soaking in the vast, open skies, keep an ear out for the whispers of the past. The Moors have many tales to tell, and they're just waiting for someone to listen.