Tradition: English Mythology
Alternative Names: Impe
Category: Demon

The Myth

Imps are small supernatural beings, usually described as lively, troublesome, and mischievous. They are often portrayed as lesser beings, sometimes resembling fairies and sometimes described as small demons or attendants of the Devil.

Imps are known for playing tricks on people. Their mischief can be harmless, but they can also mislead travelers, cause trouble, or otherwise disturb people. They were sometimes believed to seek friendship with humans, using jokes and pranks to gain their attention, although their behavior could just as easily drive people away.

In later folklore, imps became associated with witches and warlocks as familiar spirits. They were believed to serve their masters as companions, spies, or informants. Such familiars could take the form of animals such as black cats, lizards, or toads.

One of the best-known legends concerns the Lincoln Imp. According to a legend from Lincolnshire, the Devil came to Lincoln Cathedral accompanied by two imps. The imps began causing havoc inside the cathedral until an angel appeared and ordered them to stop.

One of the imps attempted to throw a stone at the angel. The angel commanded, “O impious imp, be ye turned to stone,” and the creature was immediately petrified. Its companion escaped, while the unfortunate imp remained as a stone figure inside the cathedral.

Sources

“Imp.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed September 7, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imp

The Myth

There is said to be in England a kind of demon called the Grant. It appears in the form of a young horse or yearling foal, standing upright on its hind legs, with bright, sparkling eyes. Though not always seen, it most often shows itself in the streets during the heat of the day or around sunset.

When danger is about to strike—especially fire or disaster expected during the coming night or the following day—the Grant emerges and runs through the streets. As it moves, it provokes dogs to bark and chase it. By pretending to flee, it draws the dogs after it, though none can ever catch it.

Through this strange behavior, the Grant serves as a warning. Its sudden appearance and commotion alert the inhabitants that danger is near. Though terrifying to those who witness it, the demon’s actions are said to protect the people by putting them on guard before disaster can strike.

Thus the Grant is remembered as a fearful yet strangely helpful presence—an illusionary demon whose wild run through the streets signals that harm is approaching.