In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the layered history of Castlebar, the county town of County Mayo. From medieval Gaelic clans and Norman castles to rebellion, famine, industry, and refuge, Castlebar reveals a powerful story of survival and transformation. Discover Barry’s Castle, the Races of Castlebar, the Linen Hall, the Land League, and the remarkable Jewish community that created “Little Jerusalem” in the west of Ireland.
A short, atmospheric journey through Irish history where stones still whisper. 

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Nestled beside Clew Bay, just outside Newport in County Mayo, Burrishoole Abbey has witnessed over five centuries of faith, rebellion, and quiet resistance.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke tells the dramatic story of a Dominican friary founded by the Burke clan, protected by pirate royalty, scarred by English occupation, and remembered for a miracle that saved a young nun’s life.

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Hidden beneath the rolling green landscape of County Mayo lies Ballintober Abbey, a place where history, legend, and faith have endured for more than 800 years.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the remarkable story of an abbey founded by kings, shaped by fire and famine, and sustained by a community who never abandoned it — even when its roof was gone for over two centuries.
From the exile of King Cathal Crovdearg O’Conor and the myths surrounding the abbey’s foundation, to the burial of Grace O’Malley’s son and the chilling tale of the priest hunter Seán na Sagart, this episode weaves medieval Ireland, rebellion, devotion, and folklore into one unforgettable place.
A journey through Ballintober Abbey, County Mayo, where the stones truly whisper.

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Hidden beneath ivy and brambles near Newmarket-on-Fergus, the ruins of Urlanmore Castle tell a haunting tale of power, rebellion, and folklore.
Built in the 15th century by the MacClancy clan, this once-imposing tower house is believed to be the birthplace of the legendary Máire Rua — one of Ireland’s most infamous historical women.
In this season finale of Whispering Stones, we explore collapsing walls, faded frescoes, and the quiet mystery of a castle reclaimed by nature, as our journey through County Clare comes to an end.

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Journey to Tuamgraney, a quiet East Clare village where myth, memory, and stone intertwine.
In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the haunting legend of Grian, Ireland’s oldest church still in use, Viking raids, Brian Boru’s lasting footprint, and the sacred landscape of Lough Derg.
A short, atmospheric history rich in folklore, medieval architecture, and ancient whispers.

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In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke journeys to Scattery Island (Inis Cathaigh) on the Shannon Estuary in County Clare.
From the legends of Saint Senan and the sea monster Cathach, to Viking raids, Norse kings, Napoleonic defences, and the island’s last families, this short and engaging history uncovers one of Ireland’s most fascinating monastic islands.
A story of faith, folklore, invasion, survival, and solitude — whispered through stone.

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Step into the haunting beauty of Quin Abbey, one of County Clare’s most captivating medieval sites.
In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke uncovers the dramatic story of this Franciscan friary—built on the bones of a Norman castle, shaped by battles for Thomond, shattered by Henry VIII and Cromwell, and wrapped in myths of hidden gold, ghostly guardians, and mysterious tunnels.
Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, ancient ruins, and County Clare travel inspiration.

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Step into the wind-swept limestone desert of the Burren as Bernice Cooke uncovers the story of Poulnabrone Dolmen, Ireland’s oldest dated megalithic monument.
In this short and immersive history episode, discover Neolithic life, ancient burial rituals, archaeological revelations, and the secrets held within one of Ireland’s most hauntingly beautiful landscapes.
Perfect for fans of Irish history, folklore, archaeology, and hidden-gem travel spots.

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Join me Bernice Cooke, Artist and Writer, on this episode of Whispering Stones as we wander into the remote parish of Oughtmama in County Clare, a landscape rich with early medieval churches, prehistoric cairns, holy wells, Burren geology, and the lingering presence of Lady Augusta Gregory.
Discover hidden monastic sites, mysterious hut circles on Turlough Hill, ruined castles of the O’Loghlen clan, and the windswept inlets of Aughinish and Finavarra. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, archaeology, folklore, and off-track adventures.

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Step into the stony heart of the Burren in County Clare and uncover the remarkable story of Newtown Castle—one of Ireland’s few cylindrical tower houses.
In this short, atmospheric episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the castle’s unusual architecture, its powerful O’Loghlen chiefs known as the “Kings” and “Princes of the Burren,” and its transformation into the Burren College of Art.
Perfect for history lovers, Irish travel dreamers, and anyone enchanted by Ireland’s hidden heritage.

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