The Headless Horseman is an archetype of mythical figure that has appeared in folklore around Europe since the Middle Ages. The figures are traditionally depicted as riders upon horseback who are missing their heads. These myths have since inspired a number of stories and characters in popular culture, including The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

The Dullahan is a type of legendary creature in Irish folklore. He is depicted as a headless rider on a black horse, or as a coachman, who carries his own head. As it not widely attested in native sources, including no references to it on the extensive website of the Irish Folklore Commission Dúchas.ie, there is doubt as to whether the Dullahan was originally a part of the Irish oral tradition.