Tradition / Region: English Mythology
Alternative names: –
Category: Horse
The Myth
The Dunnie is a supernatural being from the folklore of Northumberland, particularly associated with Hazlerigg in the parish of Chatton. Although usually described as a small, brownie-like spirit, it is also known for assuming the form of a horse.
In one of its favorite tricks, the Dunnie disguises itself as a horse and waits for an unsuspecting traveler to mount it. As soon as the rider climbs aboard, the creature suddenly disappears, leaving the unfortunate victim stranded in the muddiest part of the road.
The Dunnie is also said to take the appearance of an ordinary plough horse. Farmers who unknowingly lead it into their stables discover that it vanishes without warning, revealing its supernatural nature.
According to local tradition, the Dunnie wanders the crags and valleys of the Cheviot Hills, singing mournful verses about a lost key and hidden wealth. Because of these songs, it is believed to be the ghost of a Border reiver who concealed his stolen treasure among the hills and continues to guard it long after death.
Sources
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Dunnie. In Wikipedia. Retrieved June 29, 2026, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunnie