The Museum of Witchcraft

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Modern Witchcraft

Since the repeal of the 1735 Witchcraft Act in 1951 it has been legal to practice witchcraft in Britain. There are several personalities who have influenced the modern revival of witchcraft but none more so than Gerald Gardner and Alex Sanders. Both of these gentlemen formed and documented systems of ritual and beliefs that incorporated much traditional material gathered from practising witches. Gardnerian and Alexandrian Wicca form the basis of most but not all modern witchcraft. In Cornwall and other remote counties, remnants of the traditional craft survive unaffected by modern trends. Some witches will meet together in covens and some prefer to practice as a 'solitary' witch or with their magical partners, but all will celebrate the same seasonal festivals. Most witches prefer to work outdoors in ancient sacred sites but for practical reasons this is not always possible. Throughout the country thousands of temples or ritual areas have been lovingly created in attics, cellars and spare bedrooms of urban houses. Some witches prefer to 'work' skyclad (without clothes) as clothing can impair energy flow. This is obviously not always practical especially if celebrating out of doors at the Winter Solstice!

Modern witchcraft is a religion: witches worship The Goddess in her many forms and The Horned God. The religion does not have a set of rules other than "Do what thou will, but harm none". It is a nature based and nature loving religion. Followers of Wicca come from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life.

Throughout the country there are many Pagan groups and organisations that arrange open rituals and social meetings that anyone can attend. Correspondence courses and training are also available.

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