Welcome to the online home of Mark Rees
Cultural Historian • Author • Speaker
“Mark Rees is arguably Wales’ leading authority on the curious and paranormal aspects of the country’s history”
– Western Mail
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The Adventures of a Cruise Ship Speaker: Life as an Art Historian at Sea
I kicked off 2026 with an exciting new sideline: travelling the world as a cruise ship speaker. To say it’s been an adventure – a cultural adventure, even – would be an understatement. I’ve been lucky enough to set foot…
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Welsh Giantesses and Warrior Women: The Queen of the Lakes & Other Legends
Who was the mysterious Queen of the Lakes said to rule the waters of north Wales? How did one Pembrokeshire woman armed with only a pitchfork help defeat French invaders? And did Welsh folklore really tell of women strong enough…
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Spirits That Move Churches: Welsh Legends of Vanishing Buildings
Across Wales, there are legends of churches that refused to stay where they were built, with some suggesting they were removed by supernatural agency… In episode 165 of the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast, Mark Rees explores some of…
About Mark
Mark Rees is a Welsh author, journalist and cultural historian who specialises in the rich heritage of Wales – from its art and architecture to its folklore, myths and haunted landmarks.
Exploring the weird and wonderful, he also speaks and lectures internationally on European art history and his personal passion for the Gothic. A recognised authority on folklore and the uncanny, Mark is especially in demand around Halloween (spooky season is busy season!).
As a former Arts Editor with over two decades of experience in the media, Mark brings both depth and accessibility to his storytelling. His work bridges the academic and the atmospheric, whether discussing opera and oil paintings or sublime ruins and ghost stories.
Mark Rees is a regular voice on radio and TV, including the BBC, and a sought-after guest speaker at public events and festivals across the UK. He also gives lectures internationally on cruise ships, on-location cultural tours and at universities.
He is currently researching a PhD in Gothic visual culture, co-hosting the documentary series Paranormal Unpacked, and putting the finishing touches to two “dark” new books.
Books by Mark Rees
Mark is the author of more than ten non-fiction titles exploring Welsh history, folklore and culture, including the bestselling Ghosts of Wales series.
His books cover everything from “most haunted” castles to legendary figures, blending historical research with local storytelling to preserve and share the darker, more magical side of Wales’s past.
Titles like Paranormal Wales and Illustrated Tales of Wales are available from all major bookshops and online retailers (including Waterstones, where this very smiley photo was taken!).