Whispering Stones

In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we delve into the enigmatic world of Charleville Castle, a historic jewel nestled in the outskirts of Tullamore, County Offaly. "Echoes and Shadows: The Mystique of Charleville Castle" takes listeners on an auditory journey through time, unveiling the castle's rich tapestry of history, architecture, and legend. As the epis...

In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones, we delve into the rich tapestry of Ireland's oldest distillery, the Kilbeggan Distillery. Nestled on the banks of the River Brosna in County Westmeath, this distillery's story is a remarkable blend of heritage, community spirit, and resilience. Starting with its origins in 1757 by founder Mathew McManus, the episode takes listeners on a jou...

In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we delve into the rich tapestry of Athlone's railway history, exploring the twin tales of its two iconic stations. Set against the backdrop of the River Shannon, the episode brings to life the Midland Great Western Railway station and the Great Southern and Western Railway station, each a landmark in its own right. Journey with us a...

In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones, we travel back to the heart of Ireland, where the storied Athlone Castle stands guard over the River Shannon. "Echoes of Athlone: Unearthing the Secrets of a Resilient Castle" offers a vivid journey through the centuries, exploring the tumultuous history of this iconic fortress. We begin in the 12th century, uncovering the origins of Athl...

In this episode of "Whispering Stones," we embark on a captivating journey to Killua Castle in County Westmeath, Ireland. Once a neglected ruin, this 18th-century castle has been lovingly restored, transforming into a symbol of beauty and resilience in the Irish countryside. We delve into the castle's rich history, tracing its origins to Sir Benjamin Chapman in the 1700s and explorin...

In this episode of Whispering Stones, titled "Echoes of the Past: Unveiling the Mysteries of St. Munna’s Ancient Church," we delve into the rich history and architectural splendor of St. Munna’s Church in Taghmon, Co. Westmeath. Built in the 15th century on the site of a 6th-century monastery, this church stands as a testament to Ireland's ecclesiastical heritage. The episode highlig...

In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we travel back in time to explore the mystical Inchbofin Island, a hidden gem in the eastern part of Lough Ree. Our journey begins in the 6th century with Saint Rioch, who founded a monastery that became a beacon of spirituality, recorded in the ancient Annals until 1089. We then delve into the architectural wonders of the 12th century...

"Step into the hallowed echoes of Athlone where the 'Whispering Stones' podcast unravels a tapestry woven with divine artistry and historical threads. In this episode, ‘Through the Looking Glass: The Whispering Stones of Athlone's Renaissance Jewel,’ we delve into the soul-stirring beauty of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. Witness a sanctuary where the River Shannon flows as...

Dive into the captivating world of Irish history with our latest Whispering Stones Podcast episode, "Uisneach: The Hearthstone of History". Uncover the secrets of Uisneach, a mystical hill in County Westmeath, revered as the spiritual and geographical heart of Ireland. From the enigmatic Neolithic monuments to its role as a political and spiritual hub, this episode weaves together the th...

In this episode of Whispering Stones, we journey to the enchanting village of Delvin, just 18 kilometers from the town of Mullingar in County Westmeath, Ireland. Our destination is the captivating Clonyn Castle, a Victorian baronial masterpiece that has witnessed centuries of history and intrigue. We delve into the rich history of Clonyn Castle, from its construction in 1639 for Richard Nugent, th...

Uncover the untold tales of Delvin Castle, where history meets mystery. Delve into the ancient stones that echo with the stories of loyalty, strategic intrigue, and an eerie twist of hauntings. Join us as we journey through the centuries, exploring the castle's rich history and the legends that surround it. From a haunted inn, where a blacksmith's spirit still lingers, to a controversial b...

"In this episode of Whispering Stones, we embark on a journey to County Westmeath, Ireland, to uncover the enchanting history of Knockdrin Castle. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this Neo-Gothic masterpiece has witnessed centuries of transformation and intrigue. From its mysterious architectural origins, with debates over the architects behind its grandeur, to the castle's recent t...

Discover the captivating history of Ballinlough Castle in County Westmeath, where the legacy of a Catholic-Celtic family defied the odds. Dive into the fascinating story of the O'Reilly family, who not only weathered the challenges of Catholicism during a tumultuous era but also orchestrated a clever maneuver involving a prized horse. Uncover the castle's evolution, architectural wonders,...

"Step back in time with us as we unveil the captivating history of Glananea House and its enigmatic gate. In this episode, we journey through the centuries to explore the lavish world of Ralph Smyth, a prominent landowner, and his quest to shed a nickname that defined him. Discover the stunning architectural marvel that played a pivotal role in his identity crisis and how it ended up at a nei...

In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we embark on a journey to unveil the hidden stories and timeless charm of Middleton Park House , a Georgian gem nestled in the heart of County Westmeath. Host Bernice Cooke takes you on a mesmerizing tour of this 19th Century masterpiece, where architectural splendor meets tales of heroism and elegance. Discover the architectural wonder...

"In this gripping episode of Whispering Stones, we journey back to the 18th century, where opulence and secrets converged within the walls of Belvedere House in Ireland. The episode unravels the harrowing tale of Robert Rochfort, the 1st Earl of Belvedere, and his wife, Mary Molesworth. As a man of wealth and social standing, Robert sought a wife to secure his lineage, but their union took a...

Nestled beside the vibrant village green of Tyrrellspass, the graceful structure of St. Sinan’s Church beckons with a charm that captures the gaze. Its warm, sandstone hues create a striking contrast against the lush emerald backdrop, drawing your attention from afar. If you would like to have a look at my recreation of St. Sinan's Church in Pen and watercolor 👉 https://bernicecookeartist.com...

Picture this: a towering sentinel from the 13th century, nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Westmeath. Tyrrellspass Castle, once home to the Tyrrell family, cousins of none other than William the Conqueror. These remarkable individuals arrived in Ireland following the Norman Invasion of the 12th century, carving their place in the tapestry of local history. If you would like to view my original...

It all began with Andrew Wilson, a prominent local merchant whose strong faith in the Church of Ireland guided his philanthropic vision. As he passed away in March 1725, he left behind a legacy that would forever shape the destiny of the region. In his final will and testament, crafted a year prior to his passing, Andrew bequeathed his lands to distant relations, Whitney and William Wilson. With d...

Tullynally Castle, also known as Pakenham Hall. Nestled near the enchanting Hill of the Swan and the legendary Lough Derravaragh, this castle's story weaves through centuries of change and innovation. Check out my reimagined version of Tullynally Castle here https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/tullynally-castle-and-gardens-county-westmeath-original-painting Until next week! Hosted on Acast...

"Sean's Bar - Unveiling the Secrets of Ireland's Oldest Pub" Step into the enigmatic world of Sean's Bar, a seemingly unassuming little pub in the heart of Athlone, Ireland. At first glance, it may appear like any other cozy watering hole, but behind its unpretentious exterior lies a history so ancient and captivating that it has earned its place in the Guinness Book of Recor...

To the East of Athlone lies the remnants of Moydrum Castle, nestled on private property, which means I can admire it from a safe and lawful distance without trespassing. Sadly, the castle was devastated by a fire in 1921, and the passage of time, along with the forces of nature, has brought about significant changes. What was once a grand, winding driveway leading to the castle now hosts several p...

Multyfarnham Friary, a Franciscan Friary located in the village of Multyfarnham, County Westmeath, holds a history spanning over 700 years. The Franciscan friars first arrived in the area in 1238, responding to the bequest of Norman Families. Built in the 15th century by William Delamer, a local Norman Patron, the Friary and Church stand as a dedication to Mary, Mother of God, and Saint Francis of...

Today we embark on a journey to explore the faded glory of Waterston Park House, a once-magnificent residence nestled in Glasson, County Westmeath, Ireland. Through meticulous research and old photographs, I have reimagined the splendor of Waterston Park House. You can explore these reconstructions here https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/waterston-house-glasson-county-westmeath-original-paint...

Fore Abbey, is a featured painting in my upcoming exhibition. If you would like to have a look here it is https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/fore-abbey-county-westmeath-original-painting Alternatively if you would prefer to view it in person, drop in to my next exhibition. located in the County Buildings in Athlone, Co. Westmeath. September 2023. Did you hear about the Seven Wonders of Fore?...