Mark Rees Journalist and Author

Gothic Funeral Traditions, a Golden Ghost, and Fairy Lights: May on the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales Podcast

Are you fascinated by the strange and supernatural? Do fairy lights, Gothic traditions and a golden ghost spark your curiosity?

On the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast, author Mark Rees invites listeners on a journey into the eerie, magical, and downright spooky. From ancient funeral customs to mischievous fairies, each episode is packed with tales to captivate folklore fans and anyone curious about Wales’ mysteries.

EP52: Beware the Fairy Lights!

Have you ever spotted mysterious glowing lights while wandering the wilderness?

Known in Wales as ellylldan, these fairy lights are said to lure unwary travelers into peril. They resemble Will-o’-the-wisps, Breton sprites, and even Shakespeare’s mischievous Puck.

In this episode, Mark dives into the origins of these lights, their role in Welsh folklore, and their connections to legends worldwide. Are they natural phenomena or something supernatural? Tune in to find out!

EP51: The Golden Ghost

What’s the story behind Mold’s legendary “Golden Ghost”?

For centuries, a ghostly figure in golden armor has haunted Flintshire. Many believe its rest was disturbed by road-building near an ancient burial site. Others suggest it serves a darker purpose—luring people into danger.

In this episode, Mark uncovers fascinating links between this Welsh legend, a haunted artifact in the British Museum, and Flintshire’s supernatural history.

EP50: Party with the Fairy Folk

Ever wondered how fairies celebrate? Be warned—they don’t like interruptions!

The fairy folk of Wales (y tylwyth teg) are known for their nightly revelries. But when curious humans venture too close, the consequences can be mischievous—or worse.

In this special milestone episode, Mark celebrates 50 episodes of the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast with tales of fairy parties, pranks, and the folklore that surrounds them. Grab a drink, a slice of cake, and join the fun. Iechyd da!

EP49 For Whom the Bell Tolls

Can church bells protect against evil spirits, fairies, or even the Devil?

According to Welsh folklore, they can! Funeral bells were believed to safeguard souls, their chimes warding off malevolent forces.

Mark also shares the chilling tale of a demon who stole a bell and left behind a “devil stone.” This episode explores the Gothic traditions and mysterious superstitions tied to these iconic sounds.

Mark Rees: Your Guide to the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales

Mark Rees doesn’t just share stories on his podcast—he writes the books that bring Welsh folklore to life.

From The A-Z of Curious Wales to his other fascinating titles, Mark explores the weird, wonderful, and downright spooky. Discover why a horse’s skull appears at Christmas, how a cursed wall terrified a global corporation, or why Wales’ past is steeped in strange traditions.

Find Mark’s books in bookshops and online. They’re perfect for fans of history, supernatural tales, and Gothic mysteries.