Folklore is not always specific to one given place, but can occur across the country and even abroad. Folkloric beliefs can be attached to animals, plants, water sources, ways of doing things and, quite literally, more or less anything else you can think of.
A surprising amount of folklore comprises commonly held beliefs and is still remembered today. For example, you may well know this rhyme about magpies;
"One for sorrow, Two for joy, Three for a girl, Four for a boy, Five for silver, Six for gold, Seven for a secret, Never to be told."
This rhyme is well-known across the country. It is believed to be an example of ornithomancy; the practice of divination through observing the behaviour of birds and is first recorded in 1777. It has remained in the popular imagination since that time, though few will be aware of its origins.
The selection of folklore on this page will represent many diverse subjects and will often be found throughout the UK, where possible, we have added a Derbyshire perspective to it. Follow the text links or click the thumbnails below to find out more:
A surprising amount of folklore comprises commonly held beliefs and is still remembered today. For example, you may well know this rhyme about magpies;
"One for sorrow, Two for joy, Three for a girl, Four for a boy, Five for silver, Six for gold, Seven for a secret, Never to be told."
This rhyme is well-known across the country. It is believed to be an example of ornithomancy; the practice of divination through observing the behaviour of birds and is first recorded in 1777. It has remained in the popular imagination since that time, though few will be aware of its origins.
The selection of folklore on this page will represent many diverse subjects and will often be found throughout the UK, where possible, we have added a Derbyshire perspective to it. Follow the text links or click the thumbnails below to find out more:
The Magical Rowan or Wiggin Tree
The Rowan or Wiggin Tree, as it is known in old Derbyshire has an ancient reputation for protection from evil and witches in particular.
The Rowan or Wiggin Tree, as it is known in old Derbyshire has an ancient reputation for protection from evil and witches in particular.
The Language of Bees
A short article on the fascinating folklore of bees. Learn about how to treat these little charmers and what they are telling you.
A short article on the fascinating folklore of bees. Learn about how to treat these little charmers and what they are telling you.
The Yew Tree
Discover the rich folkore surrounding the longest-living and most ancient trees in Britain, including three Derbyshire specimens that all exceed 1,500 years old.
Discover the rich folkore surrounding the longest-living and most ancient trees in Britain, including three Derbyshire specimens that all exceed 1,500 years old.
The Cry of the Corvid
Explore the rich mythology and legends surrounding these much maligned birds; including the importance of counting magpies and a unique vampire myth.
Explore the rich mythology and legends surrounding these much maligned birds; including the importance of counting magpies and a unique vampire myth.