Overview
367 Episodes
BACK IN 2022... we recorded another ride-along. And this one is a real roller-coaster. (The emotional kind. We remained safely in the car throughout). The loreboys went to Leicester for an awards ceremony and (spoiler alert) came back empty-hearted. Still, we had plenty of fun on the road. Content Warning: Attempted Northern Irish accents and River Tees-related misinformation. And there's a pun at the end that relies on you knowing the "s" word. For new bonus bits - go to patreon.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2026
Ever wondered what it would be like to be in a car with Alasdair and James? Wonder no more! Here is a recording of just that, so you can pop it on your headphones when you're on the bus and experience the thrill-a-minute feeling of driving behind a caravan on an A-road whilst two men play the pub game and generally pass the time. Enjoy! This is a former Patreon-only episode from 2021. So if you're hearing it, that either means James is on holiday or we are travelling backwards in time. Who can say which? For new bonus bits - go to patreon.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2026
James and Alasdair meet a retired pirate experiencing a self-imposed male loneliness crisis. Starting in the ruins of Finchale Abbey, we travel back to a time before the monastery was built (don't look for it, it's not there yet) and meet the notorious Saint Godric. This burly old hermit had a very hot & cold relationship with animals and would go to extraordinary lengths to impress the ladies. Well, one particular lady - Our Lady. Come see us in Oxford on the 1st July 2026 Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026
People are really losing their heads in this tale from old-timey Japan. James dips into the work of Lafcadio Hearn and recounts the legend of the rokurokubi. You want a warrior monk? We got one. Seeking a sinister woodcutter? You better believe that's here. In the market for a system of bamboo water pipes? All present and correct! Come see us in Oxford! July 1st 2026 (2026) Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026
The Loreboys venture back to the Pacific North West for a gander at the 9 foot tall monster that terrorised a small town in 1960. "Is it a white ape? Is it an alien? Does it come in peace?" These are the questions the townsfolk asked, immediately before hunting it with guns. Lots of guns. Come see us in Oxford on the 1st July 2026 Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2026
The Loreboys are joined by art historian and comedian Verity Babbs for a lesson in the Art of Murder. And the Art of Gardening. What horticultural secrets lie buried in the Italian legend of Isabella and her pot of basil? Meanwhile, Alasdair pilots a new bingo format and James learns a lesson that has him re-evaluating his entire life*. And if you're a fan of the sinister 1990s puppet Pob - fear not! This episode has you covered. * It's pronounced "asterisk".** ** Not the Gaul, the symbol. Buy Verity's new book! The History of Art in One Sentence Come see us in Oxford! July 2nd 2026 (2026) Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2026
James hops in a time-travelling taxi to investigate the strange case of M. Chauffat, the Frenchman who put the snooze in “you snooze, you lose.” After being robbed of a small fortune, he fell asleep in a Soho hotel and didn’t wake up for 19 days, instantly becoming a media sensation. Then there’s the pea-throwing ghost of Peckham, the monkey who testified in court, and other London oddities torn from the pages of the Illustrated Police News, by way of Jan Bondeson’s book Strange Victoriana (2016). Come see us in Oxford! July 2nd 2026 (2026) Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2026
A gang of burglars come a cropper in a Northumbrian country house, in this strange tale from the North Country. It's basically an 18th century Home Alone, with a trigger-happy teen, a put-upon parlour maid and a haunted backpack. Alasdair is back from his tour, with a fresh stack of pamphs in hand! This tale of thwarted crime comes from the legendary Ettrick shepherd, James Hogg. Come see us in Oxford on the 1st July 2026 Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2026
From an ABC to a haunted Zoologist, James presents another entry in the consistently and succinctly named series "Bits of Folklore From Near Where Alasdair is Going On Tour". James tells of an Aldershot wildcat, a ghost in Guildford and gives a frighteningly accurate explanation of infra-sound. (EDITED because James should've done more research on William Cobbett). See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2026
The Loremen were LIVE in Leicester, with a bit of bloomin' Byron. We took a squiz around Newstead Abbey, old Georgie's ancestral home. And James told the tale of one crafty Jack versus a witch. Thanks to all the lorefolk who came to the show! See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2026
It's the big three-oh-OH! Yes, the Loreboys have turned in a triple century of episodes (depending on how you do the sums). To celebrate, James returns to his home town with a tale of a "hero of the road". The highwayman James Hind robbed from the rich and gave, mostly, to himself, but sometimes a little bit to the poor. The poor being the people he had just relieved of their money, more often than not. Look, he's a complex character / criminal. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2026
Old York, Old York... The city so York they named it York. James has been visiting the ancient walled city, but he's here to tell Alasdair about visitations of a very different kind. The city centre is home to York Minster, as well as the ghosts of a keen Dean, a smug mason, a nuddy arsonist and a latchkey kid with awful vibes. Fans of the city in the vale may want to check out our previous York episode, with guest shenanigans from Amy Gledhill. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2026
No, not THAT Barnard Castle. This is Barnard Castle the castle not Barnard Castle the town. And neither have got anything to do with eye tests, ok? There's another funny little man that puts this town/castle on the map and James tells Alasdair all about him. Plus, one freaky ghost from Glowrowram. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Shorts edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2026
England is notorious for its bad weather but at least an Englishman can shelter from the rain in his home/castle. Except in North Aston, where an unlucky bunch of Englishmen and Englishwomen (and one Englishdog) got caught in a shower indoors. And it was a shower of rocks! (Twist!) Taken from actual friend of the show Mike White's The Ox-Files. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2026
A new contender for Rudest Place Name has entered the ring! (Don't get your tonsure in a twist, Upper Dicker is actually very polite). James provides a run-down of Michelham Priory's top monks*. Plus, a couple of mysterious spectres and a jug you do NOT want to drink from. *"Mooooonks!" - Alasdair Beckett-King. See Alasdair On Tour! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2026
James takes Alasdair round the manor house of Chilham Castle, in Kent. Featuring some vintage names, a panoply of ghosts and some classic Shakeshaft misunderstandings. You want skeletons? We got skeletons mate, don't you worry! In manacles? Of course in manacles. See Alasdair On Tour! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2026
Roses are red, Daffodils are jollier, It's Valentine's time, So we're joined by Jenny Collier! Jenny returns to the pod having just moved house, so James pulls out a classic Shakeshaft grab-bag. Prepare yourself for some romantic Welsh tales! Or, at least some Welsh tales with a tenuous link to romance. And please, can no one ever mention the welly incident again? Follow Jenny's house-moving saga on her new Substack blog See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2026
In preparation for Alasdair's UK Tour, James has been digging up the dirt on Maidstone. He's found a cute little Kentish tale, plus a murderous bull straight out of Looney Tunes. This installment is longer than a minisode but shorter than an episode. It's another classic Loreboys midisode. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2026
The Loreboys are joined by the legend that is Edd Hedges, returning to right an ancient wrong. Comedian & podcaster, Edd is probably best known for being on the fabled lost episode of Loremen. We're finally making up for that whole palaver with a bevy of Cambridgeshire oddities, from a terrifying monkey (some would call it a dog) to The Chronophage. Check out Edd on tour in the UK, Ireland and the US! AND if you're in the mood for seeing live comedy, come see the Loremen Live at Leicester Comedy Festival 7th February PLUS See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2026
James leads Alasdair back into the depths of Wychwood Forest. Therein, the denizens of a peculiar farmstead make a terrible mistake while digging up a tree stump... As usual, the Loreboys offer fresh nuggets of insight and wisdom. And we might just have come up with a new form of forensic science to aid the police in the fight against crime. (It's fingerprints, but instead of fingers it's bums. It's bumprints.) See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2026
The Loreboys have returned! Alasdair kicks off Series 7 with the story of amateur ghost-hunter Rosina C. Despard. Her Cheltenham home was the site of one of the most well-documented hauntings of the 19th century... Or was it? Creaks on the stair! A rustle of cloth! A face hidden by a handkerchief! It simply has to be a ghost... Surely? We promise not to end every sentence this series with an ellipsis followed by a question... Or do we? See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2026
We conclude our round-up of the Lorefolk's favourite moments from 2025. Now is a time to reflect on man-eating horses, saucy giants and islands that definitely aren't potatoes. No one who remembers The Amazing Journey of 1607 will be surprised to learn that the episode about "the pinnace" made it to the top five. Or eight. The Disappearing Diplomat Scareships and the Headless Cyclist - LIVE! Albina or the Origin of Giants with Tales of Britain and Ireland Pluckley, the Hauntedest Village Prince Edward, Island The Witch That Wasn't with Willow Winsham The Amazing Journey, 1607 Spring Heeled Jack with Edy Hurst Join us LIVE in Leicester on the 7th February 2026 (2026)! Many thanks to our editors over the last year, Joe and Laurence. And thanks again to the Lorefolk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2026
It's time for the annual Loremen misunderstanding of how countdowns work! We've selected the top ten* moments from 2025, as voted for by the Lorefolk. Part 1 of this year's Almanac is more of a Jamesmanac, as Shakeshaft delivers hit after hit. Roman robots! Man-faced pigs! Two Jesuses? The featured episodes are: The Legends of Lullingstone Valentine's Special 2025 with Jenny Collier The Roman Robot of Cirencester The Man-Faced Pigs of Brussels Vicky's Ticker Somerset Sects Witches of Essex with Joel Morris * Actually fifteen. Join us LIVE in Leicester on the 7th February 2026 (2026)! Thanks to our editors over the year, Joe and Laurence. And thanks to you, the lovely Lorefolk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2026
It's PIIIIIIIIGMAAAAAS! James and Alasdair are joined by multi-award-having comedian Daisy Earl. We make merry with the legend of a boozy Mancunian pig named Polly, and the Scottish fairy tale of Whuppity Stoorie. (The latter of which bears a strong resemblance to the more famous tale of old... you know... Rumple-whatshisname.) Follow Daisy! See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2025
Who is that, judging me from afar? Why it's the Man-Faced Pigs of Brussels (Wisconsin), the pickiest swine the Loreboys have encountered to date! With a sprinkling of Christmas Pig magic, here is a festive little tale to warm you from your snout right down to your curly, curly tail. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2025
Long Hanborough? Home of the Oxford Bus Museum? Yes! THAT Long Hanborough. And once you've listened to this episode, you'll know it for more than being home to the Spice Girls' bus from Spice World (1997). You'll know it for containing a spooky cottage with a particularly busy poltergeist. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2025
You know what they say: if you remember Finstock, you've been to West Oxfordshire. Here we discover a wealth of ghosts from James's old stomping ground. There's a 1990s spectre, an 1800s preacher and a 39000s (BCE) neanderthal. Plus, a truly chilling lady ghost whose beckoning hands can only be seen by children. Pop on your body warmers... now! See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2025
James dives back into the well of Cornish lore and surfaces with story of undying love - and a chilling counterpart to last week's tale. It's a case of Till Death Us Don't Part in the legend of Sarah Polgrain and Yorkshire Jack, whose marriage vows echoed beyond the grave. Plus, a lovely handful of teeth. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2025
Sure, this starts with a derailment. But a derailment BY Alasdair? What crazy mixed up episode is this? Well, most of it is a classic ghost story from Cornwall. Featuring a fast-thinking blacksmith, a humble servant, a burst horse and a bit of magick. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2025
Prussia, 1809. An Englishman named Benjamin Bathurst vanishes without leaving a trace. Apart from his trousers. And his cloak. And possibly his skull. Who is behind this baffling disappearance? A local hoodlum, a French comte, or Napoleon Bonaparte himself? This cold case has remained unsolved for over two centuries. Until now! Because James has a theory NO ONE has considered before. (Maybe a horse ate him.) See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2025
The boys discover a peculiar cult boasting not one, but two Jesuses. Yowzah! Must be pretty awkward at Christmas. James whisks Alasdair off to the commune of the Agapemonites: a scandalous Victorian sect nestled in the sauciest region of Somerset. (Well, a few miles north of Taunton.) There's a little extra spice in the mix, because James has noticed that the word "sects" sounds a bit rude. See Alasdair On Tour in 2026! Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2025
James and Alasdair do their absolute darndest to keep Austin at least a little bit odd with this selection of spooky tales from that Texan bastion of peculiarity. SPOILER ALERT: we get the fairy tale Goldilocks very wrong. But wait! Before you have your butler send us a strongly worded telegram, we do get it right in the end. Edited by Laurence Hisee Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 30 October 2025
Queen Victoria, the second longest Queen of England (at the time of recording), escaped death on numerous occasions. But did she ever explore the spirit world? Alasdair recounts an series of (attempted) murder mysteries and relates the strange tale of a stolen timepiece. While James attempts to answer that age old question: who watches the watch, man? Find out more about Vicky's Ticker in Roger Clarke's article on the Spitalfields Life blog here. Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 23 October 2025
Alasdair bedazzles James with tales of gold-digging ants. Did we mention these creatures were also massive? And deadly? Well, they were! Beginning with an Old English legend from Hana Videen's bestiary The Deorhord, the Loreboys travel into a world of dubious manuscripts and outlandish beasts. Lock up your camels! This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 16 October 2025
Are the paths of Wiltshire stalked by a pagan deity in disguise? Usually on Loremen we recount tales that are seldom told, but this week is different. The legend of the Peaked Red One was, in fact, told by James and Alasdair at the Strange Days Festival of Forteana. But the sound quality was a bit bobbins, so we told our stories again, and here they are! There's ghosts, treasure and a little man with a pet trout. See the Loremen LIVE in London on Oct 15th. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 9 October 2025
Comedian and podcaster Amy Matthews takes the Loreboys on a spooky tour of her Essex hometown. From Bell Wharf to Doom Pond, Leigh-on-Sea is no stranger to strange goings-on. But what's the truth behind the legend of the witch who sold the wind? Order Amy's stand-up album Commute with the Foxes now, and check out the English Heritage Podcast! See the Loremen LIVE in London on Oct 15th. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2025
It's Britain's most haunted village, according to the Guinness Book of Records. Pluckley in Kent is replete with legends and thick wi' ghosts. James leads Alasdair through your basic Pluckley hauntings, and uncovers a couple of stories that haven't had mainstream media coverage*. Plus... has James been Mandela-effected? * I.e. they're not in the Usborne Book of Ghosts.** ** Plus a BIG*** reveal about that book. *** Not that big. See the Loremen LIVE in London on Oct 15th. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2025
The Loremen meet the Map Men. Yes, it's the crossover we can only assume people have been clamouring for! Jay and Mark joined us to discuss the mythical island / clerical error known (amongst other things) as Hy-Brasil. Prepare for some dodgy pronunciations and little local lore from Enfield. Watch the Map Men on YouTube and pre-order their book. And see the Loremen LIVE in London on Oct 15th. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2025
Storm's comin', and it is quite literally "mucky out". Alasdair forecasts peculiar precipitation with spells of weird science. The black rains that fell on one small Scottish parish in the 1860s have a variety of explanations, ranging from the odd (squids) to the really odd (Italy). Plus, we have a doozy of a theory from the man himself: Charles Fort. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 11 September 2025
Matt Stewart (Do Go On Pod, Who Knew It? With Matt Stewart) joins James as Alasdair is laid-low having lost his voice. Matt is about to launch his UK tour and James gives him a stern warning about the city of Cambridge. Book yout tickets via his website www.mattstewartcomedy.com and check out his YouTube special and various podcasts. Listen to Alasdair (in full voice) guesting on The Rules Podcast and why not come and see the Loremen at Strange Days Festival of Forteana? This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 4 September 2025
Buff the buckles on your shoes and ready your bodices for ripping. James has plucked a tale of betrayal and romance from the annals of Yorkshire legend. SMASH CUT: It's another Shakeshaft Movie Special. This time featuring gambling dens, a fortune teller, an innocent man accused and - of course - gentlemen of the road (i.e. highwaymen / thieves). This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 28 August 2025
Polterguys are back! As are Alasdair and James! After a wee August break, the Loreboys return with some noisy sprits from a disputed corner of Oxfordshire. Listen carefully and you might just learn something about early British Christians. Not how to pronounce their names, though. Apologies in advance for that. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 21 August 2025
The boys are on holiday, so this episode is pure "bants". Enjoy a selection of bonus bits from our recent episodes and take care out there, kids. If you like this and want more of it, go to patreon.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2025
Join Alasdair and James in a not-at-all dank Oxford cellar, as part of the Oxford Comedy Festival. The boys meet a hornéd hunter and a two-faced Edward: legends who left the pages of literature and entered the realm of lore. Like a pair of old-school Slendermen. Thanks to Matthew Chadourne and the Oxford Comedy Festival for having us! Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/IMykate4t9s Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2025
James takes Alasdair back to the Croydon of the Cotswolds™ - Banbury! - for a deep-dive into the origins, variations and possible meanings of the town's "famous" nursery rhyme. You know, the one with the rude horse and the lady with peculiarly positioned bells? Plus, James shares the tragic tale of a horse whose sat-nav led to a vicar's downfall. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2025
James is joined by Dave Warneke of the podcasts Do Go On and Book Cheat to hear about one of the UK's breaking (and bounciest) cryptids. Check Dave's upcoming stand-up special here... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIuGey7qQ50 This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2025
Looking for a tale to warm your knockles? If so, you've come to the wrong place! Alasdair's North Country legend will make your knockles chillier than ever. You're gonna wish you'd invested in 8 tiny beanies to keep 'em warm*. This is the sanguinary story of Stephen Hollin's ghost from Manfield (near Darlington). Stephen is a spectral prankster who will either kill you with a plough coulter or steal all your cheese. Stroll through his field and you'll be lucky to make it out with both your shoes... * Delightful image and business idea © James Shakeshaft, 2025. Mistake Warning: Alasdair says the River Tees goes through Sunderland, when it actually goes through Middlesbrough. Shocking bad mistake. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2025
Welcome to Sydenham, but be warned — this ain't your grandma's Sydenham. It's more likely to be your great-great grandma's Sydenham. James takes Alasdair to a tumbledown cottage on a moonlit night, where an unwary rambler had a terrific fright. At least, according to the ghosthunter Elliot O'Donnell. From dreamland visions to the horrors of the London rental market, this episode should give you a shiver, even in the midst of a heatwave. This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 10 July 2025
James takes Alasdair on a whistle-stop tour of Britain's mobile stones, as catalogued in Janet and Colin Bord's The Secret Country. These standing stones were made for walking, and that's just what they'll do. Except when they're spinning around on the spot. Or not moving at all. Plus, we answer the questions no other podcast would dare ask: Do stones grow? (No) Should you go in a Piper's Hole? (No) Do stones respect / understand Daylight Savings? (We don't know) Catch James on the Stone Watch 2025 livestream on YouTube. Check out the Quantum Mechanics Podcast's episode on Stone Watch 2025. Join... Us... at The Oxford Comedy Festival on the 10th July 2025 (2025). This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2025
In the midst of a heatwave, James brings the temperature down with the chilling tale of a ghost named Bloody Bones. The loreboys visit the most notorious haunted house in London. It's the Victorian equivalent of the Cat Bin Lady (but with ghosts in a house rather than a cat in a... well, you know). Prepare yourself for tales of hubris and horror, plus a typewritten message from the beyond! Join... Us... at The Oxford Comedy Festival on the 10th July 2025 (2025). This episode was edited by Joseph Burrows - Audio Editor Join the LoreFolk at patreon.com/loremenpod ko-fi.com/loremen Check the sweet, sweet merch here... https://www.teepublic.com/stores/loremen-podcast?ref_id=24631 @loremenpod youtube.com/loremenpodcast www.instagram.com/loremenpod www.facebook.com/loremenpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2025
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