Whispering Stones

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.