Fantasy writer Rhianna Pratchett takes us across an enchanted British Isles to discover mythical creatures that lurk in all corners of the land. She uncovers what they can tell us about our history, our world and our lives today.

In this omnibus edition, Rhianna meets Black Dogs, Dragons, Water Demons, Redcaps and Mermaids.

Rhianna begins her quest in Suffolk, on the trail of Black Dogs. She explores why they appear so often in folklore, and their psychological link to fear and negative emotions. She hunts for dragons in Sunderland and finds out how these creatures reflect human power struggles, symbolise changing threats, and how they are used to justify who has rights over the land.

Rhianna also explores the dark world of water demons, from Jenny Greenteeth in the North of England to kelpies – shapeshifting water horses – in Scotland. She hears chilling details of their activities and their purpose but also learns what can be used for protection against these fearsome creatures.

She learns about the deadly Redcap and why stories of such violent creatures originated in a region with its own turbulent past. Finally, Rhianna visits Conwy in North Wales on the trail of one of her favourite mythical creatures - the mermaid.

Storytellers: Michael Lambourne, Stuart Miller, Lari Don, Graeme Johncock, Ffion Phillips
Other Contributors: Helen Bruce, Mark Norman, Dr. Jamie Beckett, Natalie Lawrence, Icy Sedgwick, David C. Weinczok, Professor Sarah Peverley
Additional Voiceover: Neil Hutchinson

Presenter: Rhianna Pratchett
Producers: Lorna Skingley and Sarah Harrison
Executive Producer: Mel Harris
Production Manager: Nikki Cannon
Original Music by Ben MacDougall
Sound Design and Mixing: John Scott

A 7digital production for BBC Radio 4 Show less