Sutton Companion to the Folklore, Myths and Customs of Britain

Alexander Barrie’s alphabetical companion gathers legends, beliefs and customs from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Its entries range from King Arthur, banshees and fairies to April Fools’ Day, ancient monuments, apple lore and the superstitions surrounding adders.

Alongside better-known traditions, the book records local stories and continuing ceremonies. These include the Blind Fiddler of Anstey, who disappeared in the Devil’s Hole, reports of disturbances at Ballechin House, Allendale’s New Year fire festival and the annual Twelfth Night cake ceremony at London’s Theatre Royal. The result is a broad reference work linking regional tales, seasonal observances, folklore beliefs and customs with the history of Britain and Ireland.