Revisiting Jenny Greenteeth: The Sinister Spirit Lurking Beneath the Water

Folklore is filled with warnings — whispered tales meant to scare children away from danger. But some stories go beyond simple caution and slip into something far more unsettling. One such legend is that of Jenny Greenteeth, a twisted figure from British folklore who still haunts dark waters and tangled weeds.

In one of our most chilling episodes from season one of The Lorekeeper’s Library, we explored the terrifying legend of Jenny Greenteeth. Now, we’re revisiting her story — unearthing the origins, the eerie sightings, and the unsettling warnings tied to this water-dwelling menace.

Who Was Jenny Greenteeth?

Jenny Greenteeth is a sinister figure found in English folklore, particularly in the northern counties of Lancashire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire. Described as a hag-like creature with green skin, sharp teeth, and long, sinewy arms, Jenny was said to lurk beneath the surface of ponds, rivers, and canals — waiting for her next victim.

Her story served as a warning for children to stay away from dangerous water sources. The tale goes that if you strayed too close, Jenny’s gnarled hands would shoot up from the murky depths, dragging you down into the cold embrace of the water. Some believed her sharp teeth would tear unlucky victims apart, while others claimed she would simply hold them under until the bubbles stopped rising.

But Jenny wasn’t just a children’s story. Her legend is closely tied to the real dangers of duckweed — a plant that forms a thick green carpet over stagnant water, hiding the true depth (and danger) beneath. In this sense, Jenny Greenteeth became more than just a monster — she was a symbol of hidden peril.

Origins and Local Legends

The legend of Jenny Greenteeth is deeply rooted in British folklore, with early references dating back to the 19th century. Some historians believe Jenny’s tale was a local spin on broader water spirit legends, such as the Nixie in German folklore or the Rusalka of Slavic myth — both of whom were also known to lure victims to a watery grave.

In certain parts of Lancashire, locals believed Jenny haunted specific ponds and rivers, with sightings reported for generations. Some whispered that her twisted face could be glimpsed just below the surface on still evenings — her yellowed eyes glaring upward, waiting for someone to wander too close.

Was Jenny Greenteeth merely a cautionary tale? Or was her story born from something more sinister — a reflection of genuine tragedies lost to the depths?

The Lingering Fear of Jenny Greenteeth

Even today, the legend of Jenny Greenteeth continues to unsettle those who know the tale. Some older residents still warn children to avoid certain waterways, and her name has endured in local folklore for generations.

In our podcast episode, we explore her lasting impact — from chilling local encounters to the role her legend played in shaping water-related superstitions. Could Jenny’s presence be a grim reminder of forgotten tragedies? Or is her story simply a clever way to keep wandering children safe from dangerous waters?

Listen to the Full Episode

Revisit the eerie legend of Jenny Greenteeth and her chilling place in British folklore by listening to our full episode on our favourite platform:

What’s Next?

As we continue to revisit some of the most haunting episodes from season one, we’ll be exploring even more forgotten legends and dark tales from history. Don’t miss out — subscribe, follow, and join us on this journey into the eerie and unexplained.

Have you heard of Jenny Greenteeth before? Perhaps there’s a pond or river near you with a chilling tale of its own...

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