Denby Dale Folklore
Yorkshire has a rich store of folklore to draw upon - over many years, stories and history have combined to provide us with an interesting insight into the Yorkshire of the past, and how it influences us to this day.
We've pulled together a few examples of local folklore, and will change these on a regular basis. But if there's any ones that you know about that are particularly relevant to Denby Dale - we'd love to know about them, and will publish them here. Just email them to us - use the Contact Us button on the left!
Why is Skelmanthorpe called Shat by locals?
According to legend, when the DeLacy family who owned much of the land wanted tough soldiers, they sought them out in Skelmanthorpe. There was no stopping these men who were known as 'Shatters' (they used to shatter things), from where the word 'Shat' comes.
Do you know why the pub is named Pratty Flowers?
Because the song ‘Pratty Flowers’ became known as the Holmfirth Anthem as it was sung so often in the area.
Have you ever heard of a barguest or guytresh?
It is an evil spirit in the form of a pig, dog or other animal. It displays large fiery eyes, sharp teeth and claws in the dark of night. It often is seen as a portent of death. The words come from a combination of Norwegian and German meanings of ‘mountain spirit’. There are a number of locations which claim to have a barguest or guytresh: Ivelet Bridge – a black headless dog and donkey with brass coloured eyes Trollers Gill – a huge ghostly dog with blazing eyes Goathland – a large black goat with red burning eyes and fire tipped horns.