The Grindylow
Anyone who is familiar with the Potterverse will recognise this name. They made an enchanting appearance in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire". In the movie they looked like a cross between an octopus and a rabid piranha with arms. However, in real life (so to speak) they are absolutely terrifying. Brown to green skin, sharp teeth, claws. Ugly old hags with long arms and fingers.
The Origin Story
Children were told that if they strayed a little too close to the edge of a lake or river, the Grindylow would reach up from the depths and pull them under with their long arms.
They were used as a scare tactic by parents to keep their children safe around bodies of water - ponds, marshes and rivers where they were said to live.
A colloquial name is Jenny Greenteeth ( I could see how she gets that name).
There are similar tales from English, Scottish, Irish and Welsh folklore, where versions of these evil water creatures have names such as Peg Powler or Nelly Long Arms.
I don't know how effective these stories were at keeping people safe near water but it would definitely give you a healthy fear of swimming!
Key Locations
The largest natural lake in Northumberland, located near Hadrian's Wall. It is a shallow, nutrient-poor (oligotrophic) lake managed as a National Nature Reserve featuring a wooden boardwalk trail for viewing wildlife, reedbeds, and water plants.
Greenlee Lough
An area of beautiful open moorland featuring a mosaic of habitats attracting a wide array of interesting flora and fauna. The site is largely covered by upland heather and the peat bog at the eastern end of the lough has formed from a layer of sphagnum moss growing over deep water.
Harbottle Crags
The bay is a stunning seven mile stretch of sand running from Amble to Cresswell and is a popular place to ride, cycle walk, paddle and surf. Today there is just the sound of the surf and seabirds, but the beach has a fascinating and varied past.
Druridge Bay Country Park