Step beyond the village path and into the shadows of folklore. This podcast explores the hidden histories of witches, midwives, grave-walkers, and dream guides — women who worked at the thresholds of life, death, and the unseen. Through immersive storytelling, historical cases, and modern reflection, we uncover how ritual, herbs, and quiet magic shaped communities and still echo today. A place for myth, meaning, and the power of those who lived at the edges.
The Wild Hunt – Ghostly Riders of the Winter Sky | Into the Gathering Dark – Part 1
Have you ever heard the sound of galloping hooves in the dead of night, when no horses can be seen? Or imagined a ghostly procession racing across the storm-filled winter sky?
Welcome to Into the Gathering Dark, a new five-part November collection from Roaming Raven – A Witchlore & Mystical Tales Podcast.
Join Paula Rolls as we journey into one of Europe's most haunting and enduring legends: The Wild Hunt.
From spectral horsemen and phantom hounds to the mysterious figures of Odin, Woden and Herne the Hunter, we explore the terrifying folklore of supernatural hunts that were said to sweep across the night sky, bringing omens of death, disaster and the approaching winter.
Discover how tales of ghostly riders travelled through European folklore, why people feared encountering the mysterious procession, and how these legends became entwined with the darker months of the year.
Blending historical accounts, mythology and atmospheric storytelling, we'll uncover the origins of the Wild Hunt, the different traditions surrounding its legendary leaders, and the chilling warnings passed down through generations.
So light a candle, settle in and listen closely…
Because if you hear the distant sound of hunting horns carried on the winter wind, perhaps it's best not to look outside.
Roaming Raven – A Witchlore & Mystical Tales Podcast.
Where history meets folklore, and the old stories never truly die.
www.roamingraven.co.uk
30 Oct 2026
The Wandering Lantern | Stingy Jack & the Origins of Halloween
Have you ever wondered why we carve faces into pumpkins at Halloween? Or heard the eerie legend of the man who tricked the Devil and was condemned to wander the earth for eternity?
Join Paula Rolls of Roaming Raven for the fifth and final instalment of our Samhain Special as we step into the shadows to uncover the chilling Irish folklore of Stingy Jack, the mysterious wanderer whose story became associated with the Jack-o'-Lantern.
From his cunning encounters with the Devil to his terrible fate, wandering endlessly between Heaven and Hell with nothing but a glowing ember inside a hollowed-out turnip, we explore one of Halloween's most enduring legends.
But our journey doesn't end there.
We'll discover the mysterious will-o'-the-wisps, the origins of carved turnip lanterns, and how centuries of Irish folklore, seasonal celebrations and changing traditions helped shape the Halloween we recognise today.
As we bring our five-part Samhain journey to a close, we'll reflect on the history, supernatural stories, witchcraft and ancient customs we've explored throughout the series, and why this magical time of year continues to capture our imaginations.
So light a candle, settle in and join me for one final journey beyond the firelight.
Roaming Raven – A Witchlore & Mystical Tales Podcast.
Where history meets folklore, and the old stories never truly die.
www.roamingraven.co.uk
23 Oct 2026
Samhain Special Part 4 – The Witch's Samhain | Rituals, Ancestors & Modern Witchcraft
How do modern witches celebrate Samhain, and what makes this time of year so meaningful in the world of witchcraft?
Join Paula Rolls of Roaming Raven for Part Four of our five-part Samhain Special as we step away from the ancient legends and historical traditions to explore the magic of Samhain as it is celebrated today.
From creating meaningful ancestor altars and honouring loved ones who have passed to candle rituals, herbal correspondences, divination and shadow work, we discover the many ways witches and Pagans embrace this powerful turning point in the Wheel of the Year.
We'll explore the symbolism behind familiar Samhain practices, the importance of remembrance and reflection, and how to create your own personal traditions that feel authentic and meaningful to you.
Along the way, we'll separate historical folklore from modern magical practices, exploring how centuries of beliefs, customs and spiritual traditions have helped shape the Witch's Samhain we recognise today.
Whether you're an experienced witch, just beginning your magical journey or simply fascinated by the folklore and traditions of the season, this episode offers inspiration for celebrating the darker half of the year.
So light a candle, settle in and join me as we explore the magic, mystery and meaning of Samhain.
Roaming Raven – A Witchlore & Mystical Tales Podcast.
www.roamingraven.co.uk
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