Explore the historic site of Beál Boru near Killaloe, County Clare, a mysterious ringfort that once stood at the heart of ancient Irish power.

In this bite-sized episode, we trace the legend of Brian Boru, Ireland’s most famous High King, and uncover the secrets of his possible birthplace on the banks of the River Shannon.

From Stone Age tools to Viking resistance, and from Norman invasions to royal bloodlines that echo into modern times, this episode blends archaeology, folklore, and fast-paced history.

Perfect for fans of Irish history, ancient monuments, and stories of medieval Ireland. Short, sharp, and unforgettable.

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Explore the fascinating history of Ballynalacken Castle, a hidden gem in County Clare, Ireland, perched on the edge of the Burren region.

In this bite-sized episode, uncover the layered story of a 15th-century tower house, the powerful O’Brien dynasty, and how this once-fortified structure became the elegant Ballinalacken Castle Hotel.

Learn about medieval Irish clans, Cromwellian land seizures, and rare architectural features like machicolations and Tudor chimneys. Ideal for fans of Irish castles, haunted ruins, and off-the-beaten-path travel history.

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Step into the remote limestone landscape of the Burren in County Clare, Ireland, where the ancient stone fort of Ballykinvarga hides in plain sight.

In this short but fascinating episode, we explore the unique architecture, mysterious chevaux-de-frise defenses, and the possible legacy of a medieval “cattle baron.”

With massive dry-stone walls, rare upright stone barricades, and a history dating back over 1,000 years, Ballykinvarga is one of Ireland’s least-known archaeological treasures.

Perfect for fans of Irish history, archaeology, and hidden heritage sites, this episode of Whispering Stones delivers a bite-sized glimpse into the ancient past of rural Ireland.

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Step into the haunting history of Strokestown, County Roscommon — a town of wide Georgian streets and deeper scars.

In this episode, we explore the chilling story behind the Mahon family estate, the National Famine Museum, and the brutal legacy of assisted emigration aboard “coffin ships.”

Discover how landlord conflict, tenant resistance, and the assassination of Major Denis Mahon shaped this meticulously planned heritage town. If you're drawn to Irish famine history, forgotten towns, or the untold stories behind beautiful places, this one’s for you.

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In this episode of Whispering Stones, we uncover the hidden history of Roscommon Town—County Roscommon’s unassuming capital that's brimming with intrigue.

From a cursed castle built on stolen land to a "hangwoman" turned executioner, Roscommon’s stone walls have whispered secrets for centuries.

Discover sacred ruins, famine tragedies, and a church with a missing medieval treasure.

Perfect for history lovers, Irish culture enthusiasts, and curious minds who like their facts with a twist. Short, sharp, and impossible to forget.

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In this episode of Whispering Stones, we journey through the haunting history of Rockingham House, the once-glorious estate on the shores of Lough Key, County Roscommon.

Built by renowned architect John Nash for the King family—later Lords Lorton—this grand house was marked by opulence, eccentric design, and eventually, disaster.

Twice ravaged by fire and finally demolished, what remains today is a brutalist tower and scattered ruins that whisper of its storied past. Was its final blaze an accident—or something more? Join me as we explore the architectural splendor, political intrigue, and enduring legacy of one of Ireland’s most mysterious lost mansions.

Check out the interior shots here https://www.gettyimages.ae/photos/rockingham-house-boyle

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Explore the haunting ruins of Rinndoon, a forgotten medieval town in County Roscommon, once known as the Camelot of the Shannon.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, discover the hidden history of Rinndoon Castle, its Norman founders, and the rise and fall of this 13th-century walled town on the edge of Lough Ree.

From pirate lords to the Black Death, learn why this Irish ghost town remains one of Ireland’s most atmospheric and off-limits historical sites. Perfect for fans of Irish castles, Norman history in Ireland, and abandoned places.

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In this episode of Whispering Stones, we explore the fascinating history of Kilronan Castle, a breathtaking castle hotel in County Roscommon, Ireland.

Once the ancestral home of the aristocratic Tenison family, this 19th-century estate stood in ruin for decades before being restored to its former glory. Discover how this once-abandoned Irish castle was transformed into a luxury castle hotel and spa, and uncover the legends, architecture, and legacy woven into its stone walls.

Perfect for fans of Irish history, castle restoration, and hidden heritage sites, this story brings to life one of Ireland’s most enchanting and little-known treasures.

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In this haunting episode of Season Four, Whispering Stones travels to Frenchpark, County Roscommon — once the domain of the mighty French family, Barons de Freyne.

From the grand red-brick elegance of French Park to the ruined tower of Cloonshanville Priory, we trace the rise and quiet fall of a dynasty carved into the land and lore of Ireland.

Discover how fox hunts, politics, and the Irish Land Acts shaped the fate of a once-vast estate — and why almost nothing remains today but whispers in the grass and stones underfoot.

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Synopsis:

In this episode of Whispering Stones, host Bernice Cooke unravels the turbulent history of Donamon Castle, one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited fortresses.

Perched above the River Suck in County Roscommon, this ancient stronghold has seen centuries of power struggles, betrayals, and destruction—from the O’Finaghtys and Norman invaders to the rise of the Burkes and the Cromwellian conquest.

With whispers of Nuala na Miodóige’s deadly betrayal, a revolving door of occupiers, and its unexpected role as an IRA training ground, Donamon’s history is one of war, loss, and survival. Most recently, the castle found new purpose—offering refuge to Ukrainian families in 2022.

Join Bernice as she explores the dark legends, fiery battles, and lasting resilience of this extraordinary castle. Its walls have stories to tell—are you ready to listen?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.