Rivers and streams sculpt our landscape, and have connected our communities throughout history, from mountain to estuary and to the wide sea beyond. They give us water and food, trade and transport – yet they have a life-force all of their own.

In this collection of traditional folk tales from wild rivers, lakes, and streams, Lisa Schneidau retells old stories of danger and transformation, of river goddesses, ghosts and the mysterious creatures that dwell in the watery arteries of Britain and Ireland.


“This delightful book is filled with fascinating and enchanting folklore and histories of both coast and sea. Even if you are not a coastal dweller, you will find magic and wonder in some of England's oldest and strangest tales. A lovely read.” - Annie Worsley

England is a maritime nation. Our folklore and history are scattered with tall tales of the high seas, mysteries of the unknown world beneath the ocean surface, and the coast where human life meets the salt sea.

This book is a collection of traditional folk tales from the coasts and seas of England, retold with a contemporary twist by Lisa Schneidau. Within these pages you’ll find magic and monsters, sailor heroes and ghost ships, and even mermaids and shapeshifters.

Immerse yourself in these sea stories and let the current of England’s mysterious ocean world sweep you away.