Nestled within the abandoned mining region of the Wharfedale valley in the Yorkshire Dales lies a collapsed limestone ravine brimming with historical tales, folklore, and a potentially terrifying supernatural resident. This picturesque countryside spot, known as Troller's Gill, is steeped in legends about a monstrous Barghest—a demon dog said to have crushed victims to death—making it an atmospheric and eerie destination for hikers and folklore enthusiasts alike.
The Hidden Gorge and Its Natural Beauty
Unless you are aware of its existence, the enigmatic cavern of Troller's Gill is virtually invisible from view, concealed just off the roadside, making it a genuine secret treasure for ramblers. This legendary location is beloved by keen walkers who venture to the region hoping to witness its splendour, as it packs considerable natural beauty into a compact trail. The difficulty level for the path is fairly moderate, largely due to a handful of sections requiring scrambling, with a total distance of 2.6 kilometers. It is a trek that typically takes around one hour and can therefore be easily combined with other walking or exploration activities during a stay in the Dales.
To access this captivating destination, visitors can leave their vehicles on New Road, where parking is free, before discovering this luminous green treasure. Upon arrival, the rocky brook, which seems to emerge from nowhere, and the dramatic landscapes help explain why it is such a frequently discussed location. Approximately a 15-minute stroll from the parking area, you will spot a disused mine, the former operations of Gill Heads Mine, which has remained dormant since the early 1980s. The entrance features a substantial gate with rockfall partially obstructing it, and visitors are strongly advised against entering the mine itself due to potential hazards, including potholes and collapse risks.
Legends and Myths of the Barghest
Since its existence began, Troller's Gill has been cloaked in mystery, but one tale particularly stands out from the rest. The location is thought to have been haunted by a Barghest, a massive hound with large luminous eyes. According to ancient folklore, encountering this creature was far from fortunate but rather a harbinger of death, as those who crossed paths with the fearsome beast were frequently crushed to death or ripped apart, as tales suggest.
The Tale of John Lambert
One legend recounts the story of a man named John Lambert of Skirethorns, who bragged in a local pub about what he would do to the enormous hound, involving 'giving it a good thrashing' if he were to ever come across it. However, legend has it that he encountered the dog on his journey home, and it fatally crushed him, adding to the eerie reputation of the ravine.
Historical Documentation and Poetry
John Henry Dixon from Grassington may have been the first individual to document such tales when he contributed a poem to a book published in 1827, William Hone's Table Book. In the ballad, he describes a courageous man who ventures out to visit the Gill hoping to summon the mighty Barghest. As he entered the gorge, he sensed the spirit of the stream warning him to turn back, but he disregarded it. He drew a protective magic circle around himself 'with charms unblest'. In his brief tale, the stream swelled and thundered, accompanied by a powerful wind, sweeping down the valley. He glimpsed the enormous shadow of the growling dog, its eyes illuminating the gorge walls. The ferocious creature launched itself at the man and seized him as its next victim, dragging him to the valley floor, where his remains were subsequently discovered.
Origins of the Name and Supernatural Beliefs
Various mythical creatures and supernatural entities have been reported inhabiting the ravine, which quite literally takes its name from trolls. It is believed that Troller's Gill originates from 'Troll's Valley', drawing from the Scandinavian tongue of those who made this area their home. Their traditions and legends indicate that the term 'troll' encompasses any supernatural creatures, ranging from hulking giants to goblins, and naturally 'trolls dwelling beneath the bridge'. Meanwhile, the term 'trolldom' was understood to signify witchcraft and therefore implies the name stems from the notion of the valley being cursed, enchanted, or inhabited by otherworldly beings.
This rich tapestry of folklore, combined with the natural beauty and moderate hiking trail, makes Troller's Gill a must-visit for those seeking an atmospheric adventure in the Yorkshire Dales. Whether you are drawn by the legends of the demon dog or the scenic landscapes, this hidden ravine offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and outdoor exploration.
