The story of the Pendle witches is a notorious and well-documented example of cases brought against those accused of being witches in 17th-century England. Even today, the hill is synonymous with witchcraft, with significant amounts of visitors climbing it every Halloween, although in recent years people have been discouraged by the authorities. However, there can be no denying that it still hold a fascination for many.

 

In 1612, the trials of the twelve Pendle witches - nine women and two men - took place mostly at Lancaster Assizes on 18th–19th August (one was tried at York Assizes on 27 July 1612, and another died in prison). The twelve accused lived in the area around Pendle Hill and were charged with the murders of ten people by the use of witchcraft. Of the eleven who went to trial, ten were found guilty and executed by hanging. Only one was found not guilty.