Gardnerian Wicca is a lineage-based initiatory tradition of witchcraft, based on the worship of the Horned God and the Mother Goddess and rooted in Western European and especially British practices as revived and adapted by Gerald Gardner and Doreen Valiente. Many of the modern Neo-Pagan witchcraft traditions can trace their origins to the mid-20th century when witchcraft as a religious practice was introduced to the public by Gardner. 

Gardnerian practice is based on a degree system organized in covens, each Coven led by a High Priestess and High Priest and consisting traditionally of about 13 members. Learning progresses from an introductory level under tutelage to an independent teaching coven.

Gardnerian covens are close-knit, familial and selective regarding membership, and do not proselytize or advertise. Despite their insularity, many Gardnerian witches are active participants in modern Neo-Pagan circles (pun intended), working to foster fellowship among Pagan traditions and also between Pagans and the general public.

Suggested introductory reading:

Gardner, Gerald Brousseau –  Witchcraft Today 1954

       “            “             “        -   The Meaning of Witchcraft 1959

Valiente, Doreen – The Rebirth of Witchcraft 1989

Hutton, Ronald – The Triumph of the Moon a History of Modern Pagan Witchcraft 2001